Record Numbers Expected for Great Ocean Road Marathon

More than 5,000 people will take part in what is described as the world’s most spiritual running event, The Great Ocean Road Marathon, on May 18 and 19.

During the event, the iconic Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia will be closed to vehicles for competitors and spectators to enjoy the region’s scenery completely uninterrupted.

Event Director John Craven says record numbers will compete in this year’s event which he describes as “a really special race”.

“Most other great marathons around the world are run among buildings and skyscrapers such as Boston, London and Tokyo, but here, competitors are surrounded by the beauty of the Great Ocean Road landscape.

“Although it’s a tough course, the sounds of crashing waves and spectacular scenery helps ease the pain of the run,” he says.

Race participants will include 73 year-old Wes Collinson who is competing for the third year and aiming to run the 45 kilometres from Lorne to Apollo Bay in under four hours.

Mr Collinson says he’s “just an average runner, who plods along.” But he sees the benefits of running as invaluable and includes it along with swimming, bike-riding and weights in his six-day a week fitness schedule!

This is the ninth year of the Great Ocean Road Marathon which includes a marathon, half marathon, 14km, 6km and kids’ gallop event. Former Olympic athlete Steve Moneghetti is race patron.