Surf Coast Century Returns

One of Australia’s most loved ultra trail marathons – the Surf Coast Century – returns this Saturday 13 September 2025, starting and finishing in Anglesea, Victoria. 1,500 competitors will attempt the mammoth challenge of 100km or 50km as individual runners; or tackle the 100km in a relay team of two, three or four, covering approximately 25km each.

The 14th edition of the event has earned its reputation as one of the nations premier ultra marathons thanks to its welcoming environment, spectacular scenery, and the camaraderie shared by runners, volunteers, and supporters. Competitors will journey along towering sea cliffs, remote beaches and through extensive wildflower hinterland synonymous with the Great Ocean Road region, leaving them breathless for the beauty of the area as much as for the exertion of the exercise.

Organisers Rapid Ascent, said the event had become known as the “feel-good ultra”, not just for the spectacular course, but for the camaraderie and support along the way.

“This is a true bucket-list event for runners; not just because of the course,” said Sam Maffett, General Manager at Rapid Ascent. “It’s the community spirit that creates an unforgettable atmosphere along the Surf Coast – every clap, cheer, and cowbell ring makes a huge difference to those out there on the trails.”

Competitors will traverse a figure-8 course for the 100km event, taking runners from Anglesea to Torquay along the beach, returning via the cliff top tracks and hinterland trails to Moggs Creek and Aireys Inlet; before heading back to Anglesea on the Surf Coast Walk trail, via Point Roadknight. Whilst 50km runners will do the first half of the 100km course.

“The courses’ backdrop is in such a beautiful part of Australia and it really does add to the runners’ overall experience out there,” said Maffett.

The 2025 edition offers a number of improved features such as an enhanced athlete recovery zone, new start procedure to alleviate congestion, well-stocked check points, and amplified recognition for first-time ultra runners such as the finish-line gong! Organisers are encouraging locals and visitors to be part of the action and cheer for these inspiring runners;

“We’re encouraging our local community to be part of the feel-good ultra by cheering from the start line or along the many accessible places on course.”

Suggested spectator points include the start line at Anglesea Main Beach, along the Great Ocean Walk at Bells Beach, Pt Addis and Ironbark basin; as well as at the checkpoint behind the Torquay Surf Life Saving Club which will host music, coffee options and a party atmosphere between 8:00am – 10:30am. Further recommended viewing and cheering spots are detailed HERE.

Adding to the excitement is the $2,000 cash prize on offer for the first and fastest team to break the 7-hour relay team course record.  Team “Weapons A” came agonisingly close in 2023 finishing just 46 seconds outside the mark. An extensive event expo will be set up at Anglesea Green – the finish line location – all day and into the night on Saturday 13 September.  The celebration continues the day after the race on Sunday 14  September at the Anglesea Bowling Club, next to the event expo with presentations, recovery activities, BBQ, spectacle events and the 2.5km Kids Fun Run (details HERE).

The Surf Coast Shire continues to play a supportive role in the iconic event boasting a course that encapsulates the breathtaking natural beauty of Victoria’s surf coast region. Limited entries remain for those up for a last-minute challenge; or for the kids in the Kids Run.  Further event information can be found at www.SurfCoastCentury.com.au