Bellarine Rail Trail 2019

Well that’s was fun.

Sunday 18th August was the 16th running of the Bellarine Rail Trail (BRT) Run and what a great event it is. 111 of us lined up for the 34km run from Queenscliff to Drysdale and back again on and out and back track, whilst another 178 souls joined us for the trip back from Drysdale in the 17km event. What a field is was, the male winner of the 34km event was Julian Spence who many may know as Moose from the very popular Inside Running Podcast in a record time, whilst the winning female was Geelong’s own 2020 Olympian Ellie Pashley also in a record time.

Now myself and fellow team captain Tristan may not have set any record other than personal ones, but we both agreed it was a cracking run and awesome atmosphere despite the blustery conditions. The race was an ideal hit-out before the upcoming Melbourne Marathon with a little bit of everything just to keep everyone on their toes. The undulating course out of Queenscliff had some spectacular views of Swan Island and further, then once we crossed over Queenscliff Road the track headed inland between sprawling farmland and alongside the train line. The trail was in great condition despite recent weather other than one small section with the organisers expertly guided us around, thanks as I didn’t fancy running 32kms with wet feet! It was great to have the old steam train pass by with people shouting out support as they passed us by adding to the relaxed vibe of the whole event.

So I won’t give the full blow by blow account of the trail and event but will finish by saying bring on BRT 2020 and beyond, I will be lining up in this event for as long as my legs/feet/hips/knees will allow me, it is a great event with a great atmosphere and really well organised. I love the $10 entry fee, the hand captured times, the chilled milling around before and after and the spirit of all the competitors both the fast and not so.

I would like to make one special mention, to the lovely lady at the 28km drink station who looked up and saw me approaching grabbed out my last drink and feed and passed it too me as I went through, along with some words of encouragement was exactly what I needed so close to the end, it helped push me on for those last 6 kms so thank you. Thanks also to the marshals and other helpers on the day, without fail everyone had an encouraging word to say and a smile on your face so thank you all.

Now how did we go? Well jump on Strava and have a look or the BRT site has a full list of finishers and their times.

Cheers

Leigh