Margaret River Ultra Marathon - EVENT PROGRAM

A magnificent trail running journey along the beautiful Cape to Cape coastline.

MARGARET RIVER REGION, WA

1 7 T H OCTO BER 2 0 2 0

you

EVENT PROGRAM

MRultramarathon.com.au

its time to put yourself in the picture!

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white elephant beach cafĂŠ

Welcome to the 2020 Margaret River Ultra Marathon.

Wow – we made it – you made it… the 2020 Margaret River Ultra Marathon is going ahead and you are part of what is likely to be the biggest ultra marathon in Australia this year!

COVID-19 has certainly made 2020 a challenging year but we hope the Margaret River Ultra Marathon makes it memorable for all the right reasons as you challenge yourself to achieve something great in this magnificent part of the world.

Please NOTE: We are still in a COVID climate and we urge all event attendees to be aware of our COVID-safe plan and follow the social distancing steps we’ve set in place to protect everyone’s health and wellbeing – especially for our volunteers and event crew.

So thank you for supporting this incredible event. It will be an amazing day as WA’s trail running community celebrate with a breathtaking journey along the Cape to Cape coastline. Good luck!

The Rapid Ascent team NOTE: Due to the WA border still being closed the full time Rapid Ascent staff (Sam, John, Annie and Adele - who are based in VIC and the NT) will not be in physical attendance at the event. Instead, we have recruited an incredible team of WA event fanatics to deliver the race on our behalf.

Please treat them with respect and added consideration if things get a bit ‘bumpy’. Thank you.

COVID-safe event plan summary: We take the risks of COVID-19 very seriously and require everyone to be aware of and follow these steps.

Additional COVID specific steps are in orange text throughout this Event Program document DO NOT ATTEND THE EVENT if you: • display any COVID symptoms or are awaiting the results of a COVID test • have been in contact with a COVID case or suspected COVID case within the last 14 days • have returned from overseas or a designated COVID hotspot within the last 14 days • we ask that anyone attending the event to download and use COVIDsafe app on their mobile phone FOLLOW SOCIAL DISTANCING • all group gatherings are to be no more concentrated that 1 person per 2sq/m. If in doubt then please remain 1.5m apart and follow the social distancing signage and protocols.

• we request minimal person-to-person contact at the event – such as high 5’s, hugging and handshakes. We’d prefer elbow bumps only • only the necessary person to attend group gathering locations, eg. 1 person attend registration, leg 2 runners only go to CP1, watch the briefing online rather than in person PERSONAL HYGIENE • use the hand wash / sanitisation stations established at checkpoints, the finish and other areas • respect others and help leave toilets, shared surfaces and common touch points clean. Use the gloves and disinfectant provided to help staff keep things clean and safe • please bring more of your own supplies rather than relying on shared items – such as race food, water, cups, water bottles, pens and paper…

Teams / runners / supporters seen breaking any COVID-safe rules will receive a warning and 30min penalty for first offence and will be disqualified and asked to leave the event immediately for second offence.

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Event Schedule Friday 16th October 4:00pm – 8:00pm 6:30pm

Competitor registration in the event centre at the Cheeky Monkey Welcome to Country and competitor briefing - Live at the Cheeky Monkey and online

Saturday 17th October 5:30am 6:30am - 7:00am 7:00am - 7:10am 1:45pm 2:45pm 5:00pm 9:00pm 1:00am

Shuttle bus pick up from Cheeky Monkey to the start line at Hamelin Bay Late registration at Hamelin Bay (by prior appointment only) RACE START WINDOW, Hamelin Bay Winning 80km relay team expected to finish Winning solo 80km runners expected to finish 10hr large wine glass cut off time 14hr medium wine glass cut off time Course closes

Sunday 18th October 9:00am – 9:30am 9:30am 10:00am

Competitor registration for the 2km kids’ run in the event centre at the Cheeky Monkey Kids’ run START - around the winery grounds at the Cheeky Monkey Event presentations in the event centre - Live at the Cheeky Monkey and online

Event Centre Location The event expo, race registration, finish line and kids’ run are all located at: Cheeky Monkey Brewery and Cidery 4259 Caves Road, Wilyabrup.

Parking: There is considerable parking on the grass surrounding the brewery and dam, please follow the signs.

Race Start Window 7.00am - 7:10am Saturday 17th October - on the beach at Hamelin Bay

The race will commence during a 10 minute ‘start window’ between 7:00am and 7:10am. Leg 1 runners can start by running under the start arch at any time during this 10min window. Your race time will be taken from when you pass under the arch (mat time) rather than specifically at 7:00am (gun time).

The 10min start window is in place to help reduce the gathered crowd at the start and manage runner congestion.

Competitor Briefing 6:30pm on Friday 16th October - at the Cheeky Monkey and live online

We will conduct a Welcome to Country ceremony followed by competitor briefing that we encourage all runners to tune in for. The Race Director will talk through the course and any changes, logistical considerations, the weather forecast and other components that may impact the event.

The competitor briefing will be broadcast live on the Rapid Ascent Ultra Running Events Facebook page and we encourage many people to watch online rather than in person to minimise group gatherings.

The Cheeky Monkey will have a great range of healthy meals available on Friday afternoon and evening with a specific menu created for runners who are racing the next day. It is the perfect venue for pre-race fuelling and excitement.

Race Presentations 10:00am Sunday 18th October at the event centre at The Cheeky Monkey.

Presentations for the Margaret River Ultra Marathon will be held in conjunction with a 2km kids run (starting at 9:30am).

Presentations will be broadcast live on the Rapid Ascent Ultra Running Events Facebook page and we encourage many people to watch online rather than in person to minimise group gatherings.

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A great place to stay Turner Caravan Park and Flinders Bay Caravan Park

With the Blackwood River and Flinders Bay right at your doorstep, Turner Caravan Park and Flinders Bay Caravan Park are fantastic accommodation options for your stay during the Margaret River Ultra Marathon. flindersbaypark.amrshire.wa.gov.au | turnerpark.amrshire.wa.gov.au

Natural | Connected | Prosperous Page 4

Competitor Registration 4:00pm - 8:00pm on Friday 16th October at The Cheeky Monkey.

• •

Solo runners: Solo runners (or their support crew or friends) can collect their registration items.

Relay team runners: One team member (or their support crew or friends) can collect the registration items for all team members.

We are not making any changes to teams and names at registration, please make all changes in your entry profile online before race weekend. Call 03 5261511 or email info@rapidascent.com.au If you cannot attend registration on Friday evening then please contact us info@rapidascent.com.au to arrange collection of your items during late registration at the start line at Hamelin Bay between 6:30am and 7:00am on Saturday morning.

The first 1,000 runners (solo or team entries) who entered the Margaret River Ultra Marathon will receive their technical event shirt when they register. Registered ‘Groups’ will receive a soft flask and solos a tub of Squirrels Nut Butter We encourage only one person to attend the race registration, to queue up 1.5m apart and respect social distancing.

There will be no paper forms or shared pens, online changes and late entries to be done on your own mobile device.

Cashless transactions preferred.

Competitor Identification Number plates and timing tags • •

123 FIRST LAST NAME CATEGORY

All competitors are required to wear their race number plate(s) whilst running in the race.

Number plates will have the phone numbers of the race directors in case you need to call us in the event of an emergency

Solo Runners • Will receive one A5 sized number plate and one smaller number plate: • The big number plate (A5 size): must be visible from the FRONT when you are running – night and day.

• The small number plate: all individuals must pin the smaller number plate on your backpack facing BACKWARDS so runners behind you know your name and can give you some encouragement along the way!

Team runners • Will receive a different A5 sized number plate for each runner, with a unique number for each team member • Your number plate will have a hyphened number like this: ‘123-2’. In this instance your team number is ‘123’ with the hyphened number ‘-2’ referring to the individual runner. So the first runner to run in the relay should carry the ‘-1’ number, the 2nd number the ‘-2’ and so forth • If you are doing multiple legs then keep the same number plate for all legs you are running as these number plates do not need to be swapped at the checkpoints.

Solo runner no. plates

Relay team of 2 or 3 no. plate

Relay team of 4 or 5 no. plate

Kids Run

The kids participating in the (non-competitive) kids run on Sunday morning will also receive their a number plate when they register.

Event Centre Services

Kids Run no. plate

The event centre at The Cheeky Monkey Brewery will include the following services, facilities and activities, and is a great place to hang out before / during / after the event: • • • • • • • • •

Race HQ including competitor registration, event notice board and more Finish Line for solo and relay teams Massage provided by Rural Fitness on a user pays basis Event merchandise stand - selling hoodies, hats and buffs Bag storage area for runners’ clothing during the race Coffee, food and drinks from The Cheeky Monkey Cellar Door sales for Burton Creek winery Medical assistance station Live music and commentary on the race finish (on Saturday afternoon and Sunday presentations)

Social interaction - GPS Trackers, Photography, Video..

GPS Trackers - Watch the race progress online with RACEMAP

We will be using GPS tracking software during the race that allows you to track runners along the course using YOUR MOBILE PHONE as the GPS tracker. Coverage along much of the course is quite good (especially in the northern half with Telstra) so this allows you to watch the race and see where your team mates are in real time.

1. Download the ‘RACE MAP’ app onto your phone 2. Enter the following code into the Search bar at the top of the home screen : 9AE787 3. Enter your name and/or race number in the login fields to register as a runner (race number can be found online here) 4. Scroll down to the ‘Margaret River Ultra Marathon’ in the list of events and click START LIVE TRACKING when you start running 5. Click ‘Watch Now’ to see all runners if you are just a support crew • NOTE: Sometimes you may need to go back to the intro screen and click ‘Watch Now’ again to refresh the map to see more runners.

6. Remember to click ‘Pause Live Tracking’ once you’ve finished your run!

Running the app does drain your phone battery more than normal so we encourage solo runners to only track the last ~6-8hrs of your run so it lasts until the finish OR carry a small powerpack with you. We strongly encourage everyone to register your phone and track yourselves whilst racing (and then turn off the tracking when stopped - teams!).

Live Event Splits

Live splits from each check point will be sent directly to the web (and a mobile friendly website) during the race so you can track specific runners and see the overall and category results during the event. The live result links will be posted to the event homepage www.MRultramarathon.com.au and results.

Social Media event updates #MargaretRiverUltra

Live event updates will be posted to Instagram and Facebook using the hash tag: #MargaretRiverUltra Please also share your own stories and during the day using: #MargaretRiverUltra

Photos for sale via Photos 4 Sale https://photos4sale.co.nz/

Photos 4 Sale will have photographers at various locations around the course to take photos of you in action on the course. All photos will be taken by professional photographers and will be available for ‘Pay what you want’ pricing - trust based, customer set pricing.

Event Video

We have re-engaged the supreme video services of Marco Noe from MNFilm to capture the action from the 2020 Margaret River Ultra Marathon once again. Watch his event video from 2019 to get psyched for this year’s run and make sure you say g’day if you see him out on the course.

Competitor Services Rural Fitness massage

Rural Fitness will be set up in the Event Expo at the Cheeky Monkey on Friday 4:00pm – 7:30pm and Saturday 2:00pm – late and Sunday 8:30am - 10:30am. Pricing: $20 for 15mins. They also provide professional strapping services with $20 per application.

Contact Paula to make a booking or for further details: 0427 553 533, email ruralfitness@westnet.com.au

Bus transportation

A bus from the finish at Cheeky Monkey to the start at Hamelin Bay is available to transport runners who cannot travel with a support crew or any team mates on race morning. The bus will leave The Cheeky Monkey at 5:30am (sharp) and arrive at Hamelin Bay by 6:30am ahead of the 7:00am start. No other stops will be made along the way.

The bus is $25 pp and must be PRE-BOOKED via the website before 8:00am AEST Thursday 1st October Bus passengers are requested to wear a face mask or a doubled over Buff on the bus to reduce circulation of aerosols.

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Drop bag arrangements We will transport drop bags (that may have spare clothing, personal nutrition, supplies...) for competitors from The Event Centre at Cheeky Monkey to each of the check points (CP) and back again. Note – we will not transfer bags from check point to check point (e.g. CP1 to CP3), we will only transport from the start to a CP and back again, so pack one bag per CP. Please follow these steps for bags transfer: • Attend registration at the Cheeky Monkey on Friday, collect a tag for your gear transfer bag for the CPs you need.

• Write your name and race number on the appropriate bag tag(s) and attach it to your bag(s) to be transferred: • Green tag: CP1 – the 10.5km point at Boranup Campsite • Orange tag: CP2 – the 28.5km point at Conto Campsite • Red tag: CP3 – the 46.5km point at the White Elephant Cafe • Blue tag: CP4 - the 66.5km pt at Gracetown • Yellow tag: Finish line at Cheeky Monkey • Put bags in the appropriate cordoned off area in the event expo on Friday before 8:00pm.

• Bags must be no bigger than 50cm high x 50cm wide x 50cm across and can weigh no more than 10kg each.

• The bag must be closed (i.e. have a zip or draw string) and have all items inside the bag. We recommend those blue, supermarket cooler bags that zip shut. Plastic boxes will not be accepted.

• Bags must have your bag tag attached and be clearly marked with texta with your race number on top.

• Bags will be laid out in number order at the checkpoint ready for you to collect when you get there.

• Support crews / team mates can also take bags to CP2, CP3, CP4 and give them to runners directly. Individual runner support crews cannot attend CP1.

Bags will also be transported from the checkpoints back to the finish line at the Cheeky Monkey.

• When you have finished with your bag at each CP, place it in the area signed as ‘Bags for transport to the finish’ and then we will bring it back to the finish. Bags will be brought back during the course of the event with the last delivery by 8:00am on Sunday morning. Support crews can collect bags from each CP on your behalf as well.

• We will also bring bags and spare clothing from the start back to the finish.

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On Course Nutrition and Hydration The following nutrition and hydration will be available for runners at each checkpoint (CPs) as outlined below: CP1 at Boranup Campsite AND CP2 at Conto Campsite • Sandwiches - sweet (eg. jam) and savoury (eg. vegemite and cheese) • Bananas • Fruit cake and/or honey and oat slice • Snakes and lollies • CLIF gels - Razz flavoured • Small packets of potato crisps or Shapes (salty) • Cold boiled chat potatoes with salt • Tailwind Endurance Fuel sports drink and water. BYO containers.

CP3 at The White Elephant Cafe AND CP4 at Gracetown • All the items listed for CP1 and 2 above PLUS:...

• Warm foods in paper cups such as: veggie + noodle soup, two minute noodles...

• Cold quinoa salad • Hot water and cups so you can make your own tea and instant coffee NOTE: Despite providing the food above, we encourage many runners to use their own food rather than relying on race food provided at checkpoints - simply because the more self-sufficient runners can be means a lessened exposure and risk to our volunteers.

CP procedures: • Runners cannot handle the provided race food but must be served the food they want by a designated volunteer.

Race food will be served in small, single serve paper bags.

• Runners cannot touch the water drums or taps. Runners must hold their water bottle / bladder while only a volunteer touches and operates the tap • Support crews and team mates can take hydration / nutrition to the CPs and can provide outside assistance within the fenced off area of the checkpoint only

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The Course Course marking

Trail running events are quite different to road running. We will not have marshals at every junction and it is up to the runner to KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR AND FOLLOW THE COURSE MARKINGS to make your way along the course.

The course will be marked with: • red and/or orange arrows pegged into the ground and fixed to trees or bushes • red ‘Rapid Ascent’ branded tags and/or fluoro pink coloured plastic surveyor’s tape tied to trees or bushes • red and white barrier tape across a track / road at ground level indicates that this is the wrong way, do not cross red and white tape • In the DARK: sections of the course that are likely to be completed in darkness will also be marked with reflective red Rapid Ascent tag and / or silver and yellow reflective tape tied to trees, as well as (infrequent) reflective arrows and glow sticks. We recommend you use a bright light to make things a bit easier in the dark!

Track intersections: All track intersections will be clearly marked and care should be taken to follow the arrows. Course markings will be placed immediately following a track junction to confirm you are on the correct track. Unless otherwise marked or directed, competitors should follow the most major track at all intersections. If there is no arrow at a minor track junction then continue along the major track.

Course GPS file and FREE mapping app

A GPS file of the full 80km Margaret River Ultra Marathon course can be downloaded from the event website.

We strongly encourage all runners (and support crews) to set up your telephone (or GPS watch) with the free mapping app ‘Maps.ME’ and import the course GPS file so you can easily refer to it. This is free and easy to set up and does not require phone reception to work.

There are very clear instructions for how to set up your phone on the website here: https://tinyurl.com/y4lsneex

Designated support area

Competitors may only receive external assistance from support crew and/or team mates within the confines of the check point fencing at the following locations: Solo runners: • CP2 – the 28.5km point at Conto Campsite • CP3 – the 48km point at the White Elephant Cafe • CP4 - the 68km pt at Gracetown NOTE: Solo runners cannot receive any external support at CP1 because it is a very small site with access limited just to relay teams who are changing over at this location.

Team Runners: • CP1 – the 10.5km point at Boranup Campsite • CP2 – the 28.5km point at Conto Campsite • CP3 – the 46.5km point at the White Elephant Cafe • CP4 - the 66.5km pt at the Gracetown Any runners seen to be receiving any external support outside of this designated area will be given a 30 minute penalty - this includes collecting water bottles or other hydration or nutrition from spectators as well as items that have been ‘preplaced’ on the course for collection during the race. This will be strongly enforced.

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THERE’S A CHEEKY SIDE IN ALL OF US, let yours run wild!

Dunsborough Yallingup

Busselton

Cheeky monkey Born and brewed in Margaret River, Cheeky Monkey is producing western australia’s freshest line up of craft beers and ciders.

But it’s not all about the beer, we’re blessed with an idyllic location on Caves Road.

It’s a location that offers the kind of space that lets kids play free whilst you relax, kick back and enjoy a long lunch.

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4259 CAVES ROAD, MARGARET RIVER, Western australia 6285

Gracetown

margaret river

PHONE: 97 555 555 WWW.CHEEKYMONKEYBREWERY.COM.AU

Course Description and Details (for runners) Leg 1: Hamelin Bay to Boranup Campsite

Distance: 10.5km Elevation gain / loss: 370m / 190m Terrain type: Good running on a firm base. Minimal sand or technical aspects. Quite a bit of uphill.

Leg start point: Race start on the Hamelin Bay beach between 7:00am and 7:10am.

Leg finish point: CP1 at Boranup Campsite on Boranup Drive.

Expected fastest team runner / solo runner: 50min / 1hr Cut off: 9:10am at CP1 Saturday (2hr10min for Leg 1).

The event gets under way on the crisp white sands of Hamelin Bay with a terrific journey laid out in front of you. Starting at the southern end of this beautiful beach, runners soon leave the coast and head inland (and uphill!) on a scenic run through a little visited part of the region. Running through the heathland you will swap the sound of crashing waves on the off-shore reefs for the sound of bird song and rustling leaves in the Karri forest of the South West.

Leg 1 follows a range of 4wd tracks and single tracks with some just low level technical running in spots. The last part of the course goes across some private land so please respect the landowner and keep to the obvious track before dropping down a narrow single track into the checkpoint at Boranup Campsite.

See the separate notes below for support crew access to checkpoint 1 and all other checkpoints.

Leg 2: Boranup Campsite to Conto Campground

Distance: 18km Elevation gain / loss: 350m / 440m Terrain type: Great running on firm, hard packed trails. No sand or technical aspects. Undulating.

Leg start point: CP1 at Boranup Campsite Leg finish point: CP2 At Conto Campground - ‘Hamelin’ camping area Expected fastest team runner / solo runner: 1hr20 / 1hr30 Cut off: 12:30pm at CP2 Saturday (3hr20 for Leg 1).

Setting off from the Boranup Campsite, the course takes runners on a magnificent journey through the world famous Boranup Forest with its towering Karri trees and lush under growth.

The sandy beaches and turquoise water of the coastline will seem a million miles away and won’t be seen at all on leg 2 as you weave through these mighty trees on a mixture of fast flowing single track and 4wd tracks. In fact many sections of the trail feel like you are running through a picture postcard such is the beauty of this section of forest.

After a 1km climb that is two way with outgoing runners as well, you will soon enter the Checkpoint 2 at Contos Campground at the 28.5km mark.

Leg 3: Contos Campground to The White Elephant Cafe

Distance: 18km (1.5km shorter than 2019) Elevation gain / loss: 350m / 440m Terrain Type: Varied running with all trail types. A lot of running on sand – on beaches and trails, as well as some technical aspects with rock hopping and some trail obstacles.

Leg start point: CP2 at Conto Campground Leg finish point: CP3 at the White Elephant Cafe in Gnarabup Expected fastest team runner / solo runner: 1hr25 / 2hrs Cut off: 5:30pm Saturday at CP3 (5hrs for Leg 3) Leg 3 commences with a long, flowing downhill (that is shared with the incoming runners coming up the hill, making it busy with 2-way traffic). NEW for 2020: runners turn right at the bottom of the first hill which leads you more directly to the coast at the spectacular Cape Freycinet for some incredible rock hopping on the ancient granite domes.

Heading north up the Conto Road we rejoin the official Cape to Cape Track for one of the most popular (and most spectacular) sections above the Conto Cliffs and along winding single track to the Redgate Beach car park (where there will be an unmanned waterpoint at the far side of the car park).

North of Redgate the course goes along the beach for ~4km of very soft sand running / walking that is probably the most difficult section of the entire race. After Gas Bay carpark the course winds through a few streets and sandy beach sections before descending into the welcome site of the White Elephant Cafe and CP3 at Gnarabup.

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Course Map South - leg 1, 2 & 3

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Leg 4: White Elephant Cafe to Gracetown

Distance: 20km Elevation gain / loss: 280m / 290m Terrain Type: Good running with all trail types. Quite a bit of running on sand - mainly on trails which mostly have a firm base with some sand on top. Some lesser technical aspects and trail obstacles.

Leg start point: CP3 at the White Elephant Cafe, Gnarabup Leg finish point: CP4 at the Gracetown Expected fastest team runner / solo runner: 1hr35 / 1hr50 Cut off: 9:50pm Saturday at CP4 (4hr20 for Leg 4) Continuing north from checkpoint 3 runners enjoy some easier running on the well-formed, beachside trails past Prevelly and the famed surf breaks at Surfers Point before crossing the iconic Margaret River mouth on the beach. Leaving civilization behind once again runners traverse a more remote section of coast, past little visited beaches and coves and landmarks such as Cape Mentelle, Joeys Nose and Kilcarnup.

The course sticks to the Cape to Cape Track with some short sections of beach running and long sections of single track through the heathland before descending into the historic Ellensbrook Homestead where (there will be an unmanned water point near the car park). The course then returns to the coastline for the final 6km stretch along a weaving, twisting line of single track, along escarpments and dunes that provide extensive views up and down the coast - so keep an eye out for whales and watch the waves at the popular surf breaks. Round South Point and continue along a few footpaths and into the checkpoint in the coastal village of Gracetown.

Cheeky Monkey Leg 5: Gracetown to Cheeky Monkey Brewery

Distance: 13.5km (1.5km longer than 2019) Elevation gain / loss: 390m / 310m Terrain type: Good running with all trail types. Quite a bit of running on sand - mainly on trails which mostly have a firm base with some sand on top. Some hard pack dirt roads at the end. Uphill at the end.

Leg start point: CP4 at Gracetown Leg finish point: the Finish line at the Cheeky Monkey Brewery, Wilyabrup Expected fastest team runner / solo runner: 1hr10 / 1hr35 Cut off: 1:00am Sunday at the finish (4hr10 for Leg 5) After leaving the checkpoint at Gracetown the trail cuts across North Point, providing some technical running over some rocky terrain for a ~2 kilometers before reverting back to softer going on some sandy single and 4WD tracks paralleling the coast.

Runners continue along the Cape to Cape track (past the 2019 turn off at Cullen Road) and turn right, away from the coast at the Wilyabrup rock climbing cliffs at the ~76km pt. Follow the marked route along the climbers access track onto Wilyabrup Road then follow this hard packed dirt road for 2km before turning right onto private property that cuts through to Caves Rd. Cross Caves Rd with care and then descend into the finish line festivities at the Cheeky Monkey. Woohoo!

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BRING A

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BOCO TECHNICAL

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Course Map North - leg 4 & 5

Elevation profile

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Spectators and Support Crews Spectators and support crews are welcome to join the activity and enthusiasm of the Margaret River Ultra Marathon and the following information is provided so you know how, when and where you can get involved. At registration we will give all runners a copy of an A3 spectator map that shows how to get around the course.

Please try to TRAVEL IN ONE CAR. With the added competitor numbers at the 2020 event car parking at checkpoints is going to be pushed to its limits so please try to car pool within support crews / teams and travel together.

As always, please practice social distancing and try to minimise contact with others to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Race Start - Hamelin Bay

Where: Hamelin Bay beach.

What: Race start window at 7:00am - 7:10am.

Are there toilets here?: Yes - in the caravan park and in the car park.

Driving directions: Drive to the end of Hamelin Bay Road. Start line is 100m away on the beach.

Parking instructions: Park in the sealed car park near the boat ramp and on the road side - but please ensure that 2 way access is maintained at all times.

General notes: • The Margaret River Ultra Marathon starts with all runners (solos and relay teams) getting under way together at 7:00am. Runners will start on the sand, run up the boat ramp and then through the car park and out the main road for 1k before turning on to the trails. Please ensure you allow them through!

CP1 - Boranup Campsite - LIMITED ACCESS

(see map on following page) Where: Boranup Campsite. 10.5km point.

What: Team change over point only - NO ACCESS FOR INDIVIDUAL SUPPORT CREWS Expected time of first runner: 7:55am Expected time of last runner: 9:00am Cut off: 9:10am Are there toilets here?: Yes, long drop and porta loos.

Driving directions: From Hamelin Bay: Drive out Hamelin Bay Road and then continue north on Caves Road for 7km then turn left onto Boranup Drive. The CP is 1.4km up this road. From Margaret River township: Drive south on Caves Road and turn right into the southern end of Boranup Drive.

Parking instructions: There is VERY LIMITED car parking at CP1. All cars must park on the left hand side of Boranup Drive and must ensure that 2 way access to other cars is maintained at all times. Please park as directed and be willing to walk up to 1km to get to the CP itself.

General notes: • This CP is restricted to TEAMS NEEDING TO CHANGE OVER ONLY. Unless you need to come to this CP then please keep clear as it is very small and tight for space • Solo runners cannot receive any assistance from support crews at this CP. They can access drop bags.

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• • •

Be aware that runners cross Boranup Drive after exiting the CP so take care when driving past Water and other provided race food will be available for individual and team runners BYO coffee / food. Sadly we are unable to have a coffee cart here as it is National Parks land.

CP2 - Conto Campsite

Where: Conto Campsite - ‘Hamelin’ camping area. 28.5km point.

What: Team change over and service point for solo runners.

Expected time of first runner: 9:10am Expected time of last runner: 12:15pm Cut off: 12:30pm Are there toilets here?: Yes, long drop and porta loos.

Driving directions: From CP1 on Boranup Drive: do a U-turn and drive back to Caves Road and turn left (north). Drive 13.5km north on Caves Road then turn left into Conto Road, signposted ‘Lake Cave’. Turn left a short distance later and follow signs to Conto Campsite 1.3km further on. From Margaret River: drive south on Caves Road and turn right into Conto Road when you see the ‘Lake Cave’ sign.

Parking instructions: Car parking at Contos is also very tight. Conto Campsite is a rabbit warren of roads, campsites and tracks, we will be parking in spare campsites, on road edges and back out on Conto Road. Please park as directed and be willing to walk up to 1km to get to the CP itself.

General notes: • Once you have parked please follow the signs to the ‘Hamelin’ camping area which is where the runners will enter / exit the CP. • Runners will enter / exit the Conto Campsite via a short 2-way track and the layout will allow you to see them for a short time before they reach the fenced off transition area itself.

• BYO coffee / food. Sadly we are unable to have a coffee cart here as it is National Parks land.

• NO DOGS. National Parks declare this a no dogs area and will enforce it on the day .

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CP3 - White Elephant cafe

Where: White Elephant Cafe, Gnarabup.

What: Team change over and service point for solo runners.

Expected time of first runner: 11:00am Expected time of last runner: 5:00pm Cut off: 5:30pm Are there toilets here?: Yes, permanent toilets and fresh water showers (cold) Driving directions: From CP2: Drive back out to Caves Road and turn left (north).

Continue 5km along Caves Road and then turn left onto Wallcliffe Rd (signposted Prevelly). Continue along Wallcliffe Rd as it goes around Prevelly and into the hamlet of Gnarabup. Turn right into the White Elephant Cafe and boat ramp car park.

Parking instructions: There are a number of small sealed car parks in the immediate vicinity of the cafe. Overflow parking is best on Reef Dr and around the Gnarabup Oval off Resort Place. Parking is NOT PERMITTED along Wallcliffe Rd. General notes: • Runners come down a set of stairs behind the cafe and descend onto the beach for just 20m before coming up another set of stairs and into the fenced off CP area on the car park.

• The CP is located right next to the cafe - so its a great place to buy some lunch or a coffee. They have also been very supportive of the event.

CP4 - Gracetown

Where: Gracetown Beach Car Park What: Team change over and service point for solo runners Expected time of first runner: 12:25pm Expected time of last runner: 9:30pm Cut off: 9:50pm Are there toilets here?: Yes Driving directions: From CP3: Drive back out to Caves Road and turn left (north). Continue along Caves Road for 13km and turn left into Cowaramup Bay Rd. Drive 4km into Gracetown at the end of the road, the CP is in the gravel car park at the bottom of the hill next to the beach.

Parking instructions: There is a small gravel car park next to the CP. Overflow car parking in the other coastal car parks and selectes side streets (refer to the map). Parking is NOT PERMITTED along Bayview Drive.

General notes: • The CP is located on the grassy area next to the toilet block.

• The Gracies General Store / Cafe is 200m away from the CP and is the ideal place for a top up.

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Finish line - Cheeky Monkey Brewery

Where: Cheeky Monkey Brewery What: Race FINISH LINE!! and event centre Expected time of first runner: 1:45pm Expected time of last runner: 12:30am Cut off: 1:00am Are there toilets here?: Yes Driving directions: From CP4: Drive back out to Caves Road and turn left (north). Continue 5.5km north along Caves Road and then turn right into the Cheeky Monkey Brewery.

Parking instructions: There is considerable parking on the grass surrounding the dam, throughout the vines and the adjacent paddock. Please follow the signs but be careful not to park people in or prevent access to other parking areas.

General notes: • This is the elusive finish line and the site of great accomplishments and satisfaction when runners cross the line!!

• Team mates are welcome to meet their leg 5 runner at the road crossing and run the last 400m down through the vines together.

• Competitors cross over Caves Road 200m north of the Cheeky Monkey turn off, so if you are coming from the North, or continuing north afterwards then please be aware of runners.

Additional locations to see your runners There are numerous additional locations that spectators can see runners outside of these listed CPs. Remember that you cannot provide outside assistance but you can provide plenty of words of support at other locations such as: • • • • • •

23km pt – 100m in from the intersection of Boranup Drive and Caves Rd 40km pt – at Redgate Beach car park 44km pt – at the southern end of Gas Bay Rd in Gnarabup 48km pt – at Surfers Point and the Margaret River mouth 60km pt – at the Ellensbrook Homestead 63km pt – at the southern end of the Left Handers car park past Gracetown

Refer to the A4 spectator map given out during registration that highlights additional spots to see competitors.

Page 18

WA L K AC ROS S A SURGING OCEAN SWELL CANAL ROCKS

WA N D E R O U T YO N D E R

WESTERNAUSTRALIA.COM

Instagram @WesternAustralia | Facebook @ExtraordinaryWesternAustralia | #wanderoutyonder Page 19

Coffee stops!

A happy support crews leads to a happy runner - so here are a few recommended coffee stops in the area!

• •

• •

•

Hamelin Bay (START LINE) - A mobile coffee cart will be set up in the Hamelin Bay caravan park immediately adjacent the car park. There is also a handy little general store in the caravan park for any last minute supplies!

The White Elephant Cafe (CP3) - Located right next to checkpoint 3 is the iconic White Elephant cafe. With stunning 360 degree views of Gnarabup Bay and a great breakfast / lunch menu as well as awesome coffee you could easily get distracted and forget all about the race.

This is the perfect pit-stop. @whiteelephantcafe Gracies Cafe at Gracetown - Located just 200m away from CP4 at the 68km point this will provide the perfect pick me up as you wait for your runners to complete leg 4. They serve some great lunches and other snacks with a friendly local vibe.

The Cheeky Monkey Brewery and Cidery (FINISH LINE). Our ‘home venue’ is the ideal place to celebrate your stories from the trail both over race weekend and at any other time when you’re down south with great food, coffee, beer, wine, cider and extensive grounds for kids.

The Common in Gnarabup. Enjoy a drink on the deck as the sunsets over the ocean or grab a seat in the restaurant or bistro and tuck into one of their tasty menu offerings... The Common has it all in spades and is another race friendly venue who’s supporting the event.

Open 7 days from 4pm til late. @the_common_mr

Equipment Requirements Mandatory equipment list for all runners at all times, irrespective of category: •

Race number plate. This must be worn on your front, as the outermost garment at all times. Individual 80km runners will also have a smaller number plate that must be attached to your backpack so it can be seen from behind.

• First Aid Kit (minimum contents 2 x crepe bandages, 6 x wound closure strips, 1 x triangular bandage, 2 x non stick wound dressing pads and a pair of surgical gloves) • Space blanket - full size and un-altered • A whistle - pea-less recommended • Mobile phone (Telstra recommended) • Windproof jacket - Goretex or similar waterproof / breathable fabric strongly recommended • Torch if on the course after 6:35pm. See notes below.

• Water container minimum 750ml capacity (may be a water bottle or bladder in a backpack) • Long sleeve thermal top – Polypropylene, wool or similar thermal fabric – not cotton, lycra or any ‘compression’ garments. Weather permitting** ** This item will be confirmed as mandatory if the weather is going to be cold, wet and/or windy. Competitors will be advised if this is mandatory at the race briefing on Friday night and on the event website (although we strongly encourage you to carry it either way).

Mandatory Gear list for all runners on the course after sunset 6:35pm irrespective of category: • White light torch or headlamp sufficiently bright to light the track at least 50m ahead of you and sufficient battery power to get you to the finish line.

Recommended Gear List: • • • • • • • •

Page 20

Strongly recommended: 1 long sleeve thermal top (polypropylene, wool or similar). Note: cotton, lycra or any ‘compression’ garments do not qualify.

Additional clothing to match the conditions expected on the day – this may vary from water proof pants to a sun hat and sunscreen.

Beanie or balaclava Water proof bag or snaplock for your mobile phone Food and additional water / hydration Hat and sunglasses Vaseline, Body Glide or other body lubricant Sports injury tape (like Elastoplast).

white elephant beach café

7-8 NOVEMBER, 2020 EAGLE BAY, WA

A new challenge at WA’s birthplace of adventure Leeuwin Long Course, Naturaliste Short Course and Kids’ Adventure Challenge Open to Solos and Relay, Teams of All Abilities WA ‘Wife-Carrying’ Championships Based at the iconic Eagle Bay Brewing Co An evolution of the Augusta Adventure Race

EagleBayEpic.com.au

Page 21

Race Rules The following rules apply to all participants in all categories of the Margaret River Ultra Marathon: • All event attendees are required to follow the COVID-safe plans as outlined in the event program and advised at the event. Teams / runners / supporters seen breaking any COVID-safe rules will receive a warning and 30min penalty for first offence and will be disqualified and asked to leave the event immediately for second offence. It is the competitor’s responsibility to ensure support crews follow these rules.

• (all participants) must read and sign (electronically) the Terms and Conditions form.

• Juniors only - (under 18 on race day) must have their parent or guardian advise the Rapid Ascent race directors of their intention to enter, must comply with the Under 18 entry requirements as published on the event website and the parent or guardian must read and sign an authorisation and indemnity.

• Competitors must follow the complete course as marked and directed. Taking shortcuts or using any unfair means of obtaining an advantage over other competitors will result in disqualification. It is the competitor’s responsibility to ensure that the correct course is followed.

• Your race number must be visible at all times on the outside of your clothing (at the front).

• Races numbers are non-transferable. Times and prizes will not be recognised if racing under another entry/name.

• Competitors may only receive external assistance on the course from their support crews and/or team mates at the designated checkpoints as described in the event program (solo runners: CP2, 3, 4; Relay Teams: CP1, 2, 3 and 4).

Competitors may receive support from race organisers and officials (but not their support crews) at any additional water points. External support may not be provided anywhere else on the course, this includes the supply of water bottles or food.

• One competitor cannot provide assistance in forward progression through physical pushing / pulling / towing, or the provision of food or drinks to a competitor in another category except in emergency circumstances.

• Australian Road Rules apply at all times on all roads, tracks and trails.

• Runners must carry the Mandatory Gear as specified in the equipment list. A 30 minute penalty will apply for any (and every) item found missing during any random gear checks and you will not be allowed to continue until the item is replaced. You can expect random gear checks to be made during the race.

• Relay teams can only change over at the designated checkpoint locations – after their team mate has arrived.

• Competitors are responsible for the actions of their support crew and may be penalised for actions or breaches of the rules by their support crew, including parking in unauthorised locations.

• Support crews and team mates are not permitted to run with or pace runners for greater than 500m.

• Any competitor who withdraws from the race MUST notify an official. This is an essential requirement to avoid unnecessary searches being conducted and emergency services being engaged.

• All runners are permitted to lodge protests against results or decisions enforced during the event. A judging panel of three Rapid Ascent staff members will adjudicate on all protests and other contentious matters, and their decision will be final. Protests must be lodged within 30 minutes of the subject competitor crossing the finish line.

• Rapid Ascent has sole discretion to alter or amend the race rules in order to increase the safety of participants or for any other reason deemed appropriate.

• If the race is cancelled or called off after it has started, it is each competitor’s responsibility to get themselves to the start / finish area as soon as you have been notified of the cancellation.

Cut off times The following cut off times apply to all competitors in all categories of the Margaret River Ultra Marathon and will be strictly enforced as follows: • Start of Leg 2 – you must depart CP1 by 9:10am Saturday • Start of Leg 3 – you must depart CP2 by 12:30pm Saturday • Start of Leg 4 – you must depart CP3 by 5:30pm Saturday • Start of Leg 5 – you must depart CP4 by 9:50pm Saturday

Cut off procedures: • • •

For teams who do not make the published cut off time, the next team member will be allowed to continue at the published cut off time but will be an ‘unranked competitor’ with no official result recorded.

Individuals who miss a cut off must miss the next leg but they may re-continue from the following checkpoint if they wish.

If the last cut off is missed, then competitors must make their way via alternative means to the finish line.

If you cannot complete a leg or are forced to stop or withdraw from a leg the following procedures will be followed: • You will now be an ‘unranked’ competitor. You will not be permitted to return to that leg but you can recommence the event with the next leg • When you get to the next checkpoint, advise an official that you did not complete the leg and hand over to your team mate who can continue the rest of the course • Your team will be unranked, but you can still continue the event.

Page 22

THE NEW MINI COUNTRYMAN. AS COUNTRY AS YOU.

The new MINI Countryman is as country as you. It’s a fun, fast, urban do-it-all machine – a city version of an SUV, if you like. And it’s big – designed to do everything a city dweller needs and more. With a luxurious and roomy interior and the 450 litre do-everything sized boot, it’s a car that makes city living just better. And it’s a MINI, so it turns a trip to the shops into a smile inducing, adrenalin fuelled adventure. And true, the Countryman may not be completely at home in the country, but neither are you.

Visit your local MINI Garage today.

mini.com.au Page 23

Completion awards 80km solo runners • • • •

First overall male and female will get their name on the prestigious perpetual trophy designed and manufactured from local materials by Hamelin Bay sculptor Lou Lambert.

Individual finishers who complete the 80km course in less than 10hrs will receive a large wine glass trophy in recognition of their accomplishment.

Individual finishers who complete the 80km course in a time between 10hrs and 14hrs will receive a medium wine glass trophy in recognition of their accomplishment.

Individual finishers who complete the 80km course in a time greater than 14hrs will receive a finisher’s medal

80km relay teams •

The members of all relay teams who complete the 80km course will receive a finishers medal. The finishing runner can collect medals for all their team mates.

NOTE: Finish medals placed into hands and not placed over heads (minimising close personal contact)

Race Honour Board Solo runners OVERALL MALE 2018 1st 7:58.14 2nd 8:45.38 3rd 8:51:54 2019 1st 2nd 3rd

7:46.21 (record) 8:00.22 8:25.22

Josh O’Hart Michael Taylor Chris Henderson

OVERALL FEMALE 2018 1st 8:39.38 (record) 2nd 9:38.44 3rd 9:51.39

Deb Nicholl Ashley Ritson Sarah Wiese

Justin Scarvaci Shane Johnson Jon Pendse

2019 1st 2nd 3rd

Deb Nicholl Arian Huston Lauren French

8:52.45 8:56.34 9:14.08

Teams

Team of 4 or 5 Male 2018 7:03.33 Team Old Timers 2019 6:53.05 Team Trail Thursdays

Steve McKean, Jon Pendse, Will Withers, Paul Gnovese, Evan Kolbe Ben Hannah, Eddie Still, Sam Herrmann, James Richardson, Juan Moreno

Team of 4 or 5 Female 2018 8:12.16 Team RIOT 2019 8:14.55 Team Sole Sisters

Deirdre McPhee, Kate Fitzsimons, Marie Turner, Lisa Rowe Edwina Sutton, Rachel Scott, Amy Couanis, Kristie Orchard

Team of 4 or 5 Mixed 2018 7:27.40 Team 3 x 2 x 3 2019 7:41.32 Camper ! Lori

Kate Shryock, Sandy Franco, Gervase Vlahov, Ben McRobb, Scott Biffen Andrea Lori, Christie Lori, Erika Lori, Michael Lori, Philip Lori

Team of 2 or 3 Male 2018 7:22.33 Team OCR Plodders 2019 6:34.07 Team Sub Seven

Matt WIisniewski, Adrian Castle Matthew Wisniewski, Evan Kolbe, Adrain Castle

Team of 2 or 3 Female 2018 10:46.38 Team Worst. Wine Tour. Ever. Hilliary Greene, Emily Larkins 2019 8:38.47 Team Got the Runs Meg Howard, Phip Hughs Team of 2 or 3 Mixed 2018 7:59.14 Team VFuel Australia 1 2019 7:55.46 40 B4 40

Page 24

Dan Robertson, Tegyn Angel, Kellie Emmerson Jess Reynolds, Rhys Thomas

white elephant beach café

KIDS’ RUN - Sunday at 9:30am We love seeing active kids so we have included a 1.7km kids run over the weekend.

When: 9:30pm, Sunday (30mins before presentations) Where: Start / Finish at the Cheeky Monkey Who: For kids aged up to 13 years How: • $10 entry, includes race plate, ribbon and fruit at the finish • Enter online prior to 8:00am Tuesday 13th October or pay on the day at Registration, between 9:00am - 9:30am.

• A parent / guardian will be required to attend registration to complete the entry form The Course: The 1.7km Kids Run starts in the event expo and then follows a fun and achievable coursed around the dam and then through the vines on the Cheeky Monkey property before finishing back where you started in the event centre.

The course is not at all technical, is on a gravel double-track and does not cross any roads or driveways. In fact you can nearly see the whole course whilst standing in the expo area enjoying your breakfast!

Parents can run with kids and marshals will be positioned in key places to assist kids along the way. Please note, this run is NOT a race! It is purely participation-based to get the kids involved in this inspiring event weekend. Participants will receive a race plate however the event is NOT timed.

Event merchandise Hoodie - $75 • • •

Comfortable and cool hoodie featuring a kangaroo pocket on the front and stylish MRUM illustration on the back!

65% cotton/ 35% polyester Fabric weighing 310 gm

Trucker cap - $25 Run cap - $25 Head Buff - $17

Page 25

21-24 april 2021 and

26-29 August august 2021 ALICE SPRINGS / NT

4 DAYS 4 STAGES

A spectacular trail running experience in Australia’s Red Centre › Easy race logistics › 2 course length options: • Malbunka › 20-45km stages • Namatjira › 11-30km stages › Forge unforgettable friendships

runlarapinta.com.au

Page 26

WANT MORE ACTION? Then check out these other Rapid Ascent races taking place all around the country in 2021.

NEW Eagle Bay Epic Adventure Race

Eagle Bay, WA, 7 - 8 November, 2020. www.EaglerBayEpic.com.au A new challenge at WA’s birth place of adventure. The Eagle Bay Epic is designed as the ultimate mix of off-road adventure racing with MTB, ocean swim, kayak and trail running legs that traversing the pristine coastline in south-west, Western Australia.

Surf Coast Century presented by MINI

Anglesea, VIC. 5 December, 2020. www.SurfcoastCentury.com.au A spectacular 100km trail run along Victoria’s surf coast and wildflower hinterland with the promise that no two steps will be the same. Do it either as an individual and click over the whole 100km solo or join up with some friends in a relay team of up to 4 and run 25km each.

Otway Odyssey presented by Focus

Forrest, VIC. 20-21 February, 2021. www.OtwayOdyssey.com.au The Otway Odyssey is the most respected MTB marathon in Australia, comprising 100km, 50km 30km and 10km courses through the spectacular Otway Ranges on some of the best single tracks in Australia. Sunday includes Great Otway Gravel Grind for roadies and CX riders with 97km or 49km gravel grinds on the A-Grade roads through the region’s magnificent tall timber forests.

X-Adventure Dunsborough

Dunsborough WA. 10-11 April, 2021. www.xadventure.com.au An off road triathlon event through the stunning scenery around Dunsborough in South West WA. With long course and short course options, duathlon, plus a kids triathlon, this is the biggest off-road triathlon in Australia held in adventure paradise.

Margaret River Ultra Marathon

Margaret River WA. 1 May, 2021. www.MRultramarathon.com.au Providing a spectacular 80km journey for solo runners and relay teams (with up to 5 runners), the Margaret River Ultra Marathon provides runners with an incredible race in Western Australia’s Cape to Cape coastline.

The Trail Running Series presented by MINI

Five wilderness locations within 1 hour’s drive of Melbourne, . www.TrailRunningSeries.com.au Trail running races for everyone... The Trail Running Series includes 5 different race venues all within one hour’s drive of Melbourne with short (~6km) / medium (~12km) / and long (~17km) course runs through spectacular wilderness. Make sure you are part of this revolutionary series in 2018.

Run Larapinta

Alice Springs, NT. 21-24 April AND 26-29 August, 2021 www.RunLarapinta.com.au A four day, four stage trail running race along the most spectacular sections of the iconic Larapinta Trail in Central Australia. Race either the Malbunka with 20km - 45km stages or the Namatjira with 10km - 30km stages for an incredible event experience.

The Redback

Alice Springs, NT. 20 - 23 August, 2021 www.TheRedback.com.au An awe inspiring mountain bike stage race in the majestic MacDonnell Ranges of Alice Springs. With 6 racing stages over 4 days varying from a 45 second hill sprint to a 45km epic, this is MTB nirvana with plenty of flowing single track, incredible scenery and friendly camaraderie.

Good luck on race day and we hope to see you at another Rapid Ascent event soon.

www.RapidAscent.com.au Page 27