ADVERTORIAL WORDS: SAM MAFFETT. IMAGES: NOÉKO
WHY DO WE RUN…?
Why do we run? What inspires us to brave the cold early mornings, the darkness of winter or the time away from family and friends to go and run? If you’re anything like us then it’ll be summed up by some of these key words: camaraderie, satisfaction, fitness, landscapes and adventure. This is the life blood of trail running and central to why we do what we do… and if there is one event that brings all this together for anyone to experience it’s got to be the Great Southern Stage Run held in south-west Western Australia. The Great Southern Stage Run is a 3-day stage running event over a spectacular 200km course along large sections of the phenomenal Bibbulmun Track between Walpole and Albany. What sets it apart from other stage races is the relay team aspect that allows runners to be involved without needing to tick-off 70km day after day after day. With 4 team members, competitors will run just one leg per day covering between 10km to 26km each to complete the journey. The inaugural event brought teams from across Australia and generated an incredible sense of camaraderie as runners shared stories, equipment and injury updates from one day to the next. Soon teams were no longer competing against each other but running with each other through a wild and untouched landscape. Check-point locations became social hubs where participants would chat and cheer everyone through whilst
waiting to high-five their own team runner and the exchange of timing chip. Stage races have a certain amount of majesty to them – they become a journey shared with others; where you build new friendships, share your experiences and become one on the trail. Add in a team option and it makes this achievable for any runner! “This race exceeded my expectations on so many levels! The challenge, the camaraderie, the stunning scenery… I absolutely loved every minute, especially making so many on-track friends.” Emma, relay team participant 2022. The Great Southern region of WA is a trail runners paradise and offers acourse that is equal parts challenging and rewarding, making it one of Australia’s jewels! The rugged, untamed coastline that’s flanked by lush vegetation and quaint touristy villages provides a range of amazing landscapes for the event. From the majestic Tingle and Karri trees in the Valley of the Giants near Walpole to the picturesque finish line on the Torndirrup Peninsula near Albany, runners will traverse a course that pushes their limits while showcasing the region's natural beauty. The 200km point to point route provides an incredible sense of journey as you traverse a landscape rich with diversity, life and interest. Frequent checkpoints mean you’re never too far away from your friends whilst the endless single track fills your soul and drains your legs. Satisfaction is 100% guaranteed.
“The trails were rugged, varied and beautiful with a different view around every corner. It was such a buzz to share it with my team mates over the 3 days, cheer each other on and complete it together.” - Kyle, relay team participant 2022. If your wellbeing cup isn’t full after running trails all day, then relaxing postrace with a beer from local Wilsons Brewing and comparing war stories with your new friends should have you feeling fulfilled. The event provides optional group accommodation at the finish lines - low cost and with meals cooked and prepared for you(!) it’s the perfect end to the perfect day. Logistics made easy and camaraderie complete! So if you love your running and want an event that embraces the reasons why we do what we do, then gather your crew and head west for the Great Southern Stage Run for an odyssey you’ll never forget.
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16 – 18 November, 2023 Relay Teams of 4, running 1 leg each per day Limited solo entries Walpole to Albany, WA GreatSouthernStageRun.com.au
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