Top 10 Moments of Ultra-Trail Australia

There are so many incredible things that happened across the weekend of racing. It truly is an event that inspires and in many cases changes lives. Below are our highlights from Ultra-Trail Australia, not in any particular order.

1. The welcome to country by David King before the start of the UTA100

The traditional owners of the spectacular country that the race goes through privilege us with their blessing to enter their sacred land. Immediately before the race started, the sound of the clapping sticks and didgeridoo, accompanied by David King’s dancing was a spine tingling thing to be witness to.
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2. Ben Duffus placing second

His last two races had the dreaded ‘DNF’ next to his name so to see him storm home to such a great finish was an awesome thing to witness.

3. Mark Green dominating the 50km

He wasn’t the favourite, but his superior class and respect for the course, fellow competitors and distance saw him rise to the top of the podium in a cracking time.

13244798_1038374802917869_6056267378718558530_n4. The Queen Victoria Hospital Check Point

Thanks to the team from Pace Athletic, the Queen Vic CP had a party atmosphere that energised competitors and their support crews. It was the place to be during Saturday night!

5. The energy at the finish line

The commentators, lights, cheering spectators and massive finish arch make the final moments of Ultra-Trail Australia one of the most memorable things you’ll do. The excitement and positive energy makes even the toughest of folks well up a little!

6. Dave Byrne and Brendan Davies duking it out in the Pace 22 on Furber Steps

It was an exciting race from start to finish that saw two mates and fierce competitors dragging themselves up the final stairs in an extremely close finish. Both embraced after crossing the line in a sign of respect and relief.

7. Beth Cardelli making a triumphant return to the event

She has now won the race on four occasions and watching her build through the day and apply herself in such a determined manner showed just how classy an athlete Beth is.

8. Tom’s antics at the presentation

Being a race director, he might have a very serious job to do, but every year when he takes to the stage at the presentation despite little sleep, Tom manages to make everyone laugh. He also has a way with words that makes everyone involved feel appreciated and special.

13227172_1037630386325644_6986554773475064217_n9. Seeing the future of trail running in the Injinji 1km-4-Kids Race

It’s the race that possibly brings the most cheering. It’s always fun to see the hundreds of future trail runners take to the 1km loop, some fiercely competitive, others carrying their teddy, but all equally as excited and happy with smiles ear to ear.

10. Being there as the final competitor finished

This event isn’t just about the pointy end. It’s those that toil away through the night and haul themselves to the finish some 24 hours or more after the start that impress me the most.