Focus on a raceInterview

Interview: Australian Wildlife Marathon

16 Nov, 2015 (Mon)
Credit : Australian Wildlife Marathon

On April 16th 2016, you’ll be organizing the Australian Wildlife Marathon. Can you tell us where it is located?

The run takes place in the Victorian High Country known as the Australian Alps on scenic dirt trails.  It is located 3 hours from Melbourne. The natural beauty of the stunning High Country features river valleys and Majestic Mountain peaks. A cool climate, along with stunning views, varied terrain and a range of trails to suit all levels combine to create the perfect trail running experience.

How old is the race and why was it created in the first place?

2016 will be the inaugural year.  The Australian Wildlife Marathon is part of our wildlife series of races which have been created to help raise funds to support animal conservation. Profits from this particular run will be donated to help protect the Koalas in the Wild.

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What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it?

The run takes place on very scenic Alpine Trails on a non-technical course. It weaves through the mountains, offering runners a rare and stunning view of the landscapes below, but is a rolling -hills course suitable for someone new to trail running

What are the distances on the agenda?

The are a 5K, a Half-Marathon, a Marathon, and a 50K.

How many runners do you expect on Saturday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract?

 We expect approximately 100 runners of varying abilities. Because of the variety of course options, there truly is something for everyone.

At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect?

April is starting to cool off and the weather should be great for running. However, since run takes place on exposed Alpine Trails, runners need to be prepared in case of sudden or severe weather changes.

Credit : Australian Wildlife Marathon

Have you planned festivities around the event?

Yes, it is a weeklong package starting with a welcome reception, a walking tour of Melbourne with lunch. Upon arriving at Mt Buller, runners will join local Australians for a pre-race dinner and race briefing. On the day of the run, there will be a number of optional tours offered for non-runners.

After the run, there will be an Awards Banquet with local entertainment. On the way back to Melbourne there will be a stop in the Yarra Valley for wine tasting and an evening talk on the Koala Conservation Program by local expert. The following two days will be spent seeing and interacting with Australian Wildlife, and the amazing scenery in and around Melbourne. We encourage families to come as there is as much to do for children as well there is for adults.

The race finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Mount Buller before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing?

After everyone has crossed the finish line, there will be a dinner celebration and the next morning we will be heading back to Melbourne. I recommend the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant where you can ride around the city on an historic tramcar and enjoy a fabulous meal and drinks.

Also, those spending an extra day might take a drive on the Great Ocean Road out to the 12 Apostles. The jutting rock formations from the ocean are truly unique to this part of the world and should not be missed.

Credit : Australian Wildlife Marathon

In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of ahotu Marathons to make them register for the Australian Wildlife Marathon?

The Australian Wildlife Marathon drops runners onto the most geologically-diverse and scenic trails Australia has to offer, then adds top-notch food and wine, wildlife interaction, and a chance to get to know the locals.

Interview with Sue Rudolph, Race Director

Sue has been a long distance trail runner for over 30 years and have owned a travel agency since 1994. The agency specializes in trips for runners, triathletes and cyclists. Australia is a favorite country of hers and she is excited to be able to create an amazing marathon that showcases the best of what Australia has to offer.
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