Question 1

FAQ assistant

Accepted Answer

Type your question into the search field and select the race you are referring to (at the top) and the AI powered FAQ Assistant will give you an answer. If you can’t find the answer you need please email [email protected]

Question 2

When do entries open and how quickly do they sell out?

Accepted Answer

Entries for the 2026 Margaret River Ultra Marathon will open on Monday 13 October 2025 at 9:00 AM WST. The event has gained tremendous popularity and consistently sells out within hours of opening. In 2024, the 80km capacity field sold out in a record-breaking 27 hours, cementing its reputation as one of Australia’s most in-demand ultra trail races.The event has strict entry limits to preserve the competitor experience, with field limits set at 400 solo runners and 250 teams for the 80km event, plus 400 solo runners for the 42km marathon. Given the rapid sell-out history, interested participants should be prepared to register immediately when entries open.

Question 3

What are the entry fees for the 80km and 42km events?

Accepted Answer

The Margaret River Ultra Marathon offers a tiered pricing structure with standard and late entry fees. Pricing is as follows: CategoryStandard EntryLate Entry80KM Solo Adult$438$48842KM Solo Adult$298$34880KM Solo Junior (U18)$349$39942KM Solo Junior (U18)$175$225Grand Slam (80KM + 42KM)$636$736Team of 2-3$586$636Team of 4-5$621$671Junior Team$533$583Kids Run$12$12 Standard entry pricing applies until 8:00 AM WST on 2nd March 2026, after which late entry fees take effect until entries close at 8:00 AM WST on 4th May 2026. The Grand Slam option provides a $100 discount for participants completing both the 80km AND 42km events.

Question 4

Can I get a refund if I can’t participate?

Accepted Answer

The Margaret River Ultra Marathon has a structured refund policy that varies based on timing and circumstances: For withdrawals 23+ days before the event: Credit option: Receive a credit towards another Rapid Ascent event, less a 10% administration fee. Refund option: Receive a cash refund, less a 25% administration fee. For withdrawals less than 23 days before the event: No credits or refunds will be issued Special circumstances: Pregnancy policy: Female entrants forced to withdraw due to pregnancy can choose between a credit (10% admin fee), refund (10% admin fee), or guaranteed entry deferral to the following year at the same entry fee. Wait list policy: If not offered a spot from the wait list, participants receive a full refund of their 50% deposit one week after the event. All refund and credit requests must be submitted in writing via [email protected]. Once a credit has been issued, it cannot be converted back to a cash refund.

Question 5

What is the difference between solo & relay team options for the 80km?

Accepted Answer

The 80km Ultra Marathon offers two distinct participation formats: Solo Option: Individual runners complete the entire 80km course alone Start time: 6:15 AM on Saturday Must carry all mandatory gear throughout the race Eligible for individual rankings and awards Can utilise drop bag services and checkpoint nutrition Relay Team Option: Teams of 2-5 runners share the 80km distance across 5 legs Team start time: 8:00 AM on Saturday (2 hours after solos) Each leg ranges from 10-20km in distance Team members can pass mandatory gear between runners at transitions, but ALL mandatory gear MUST be carried throughout the entire race Only designated team members can run their assigned legs Teams can change composition until the Tuesday before the event The relay format makes the event accessible to runners who may not be ready for the full 80km challenge while still experiencing the stunning Cape to Cape coastline course. It’s also a fun and social way for “go fast” runners to tackle the course as a team.

Question 6

How much of the course involves running on sand?

Accepted Answer

The Margaret River Ultra Marathon features significant sand running sections, particularly in the middle portions of the 80km course. Runners encounter substantial sand sections primarily in legs 3-5 of the 80km course. The course winds through forests, trails, beaches, and bluffs along the Cape to Cape coastline, with the beach and coastal trail sections presenting the most challenging sand running conditions. Training recommendations for sand running: Practice running on soft sand surfaces during training Expect significantly slower pace on sand sections Consider gaiters to prevent sand entering shoes Save energy in early legs as sand sections “can be a killer” in the later stages The 42km marathon course from Yallingup to Howard Park also includes coastal sections with sand running, though to a lesser extent than the full 80km course.

Question 7

What are the cut-off times for each distance?

Accepted Answer

The Margaret River Ultra Marathon enforces strict cut-off times to ensure participant safety and course management: 80km Ultra Marathon Cut-offs: CheckpointDistanceSolo Cut-offTeam Cut-offCP1 (Boranup)11.5kmStart + 3h 30minStart + 2h 15minCP2 (Conto)26kmStart + 6h 15minStart + 5hCP3 (Riflebutts)46kmStart + 10hStart + 8h 45minCP4 (Gracetown)64kmStart + 13h 30minStart + 11h 45minFinish80km22:30 Saturday22:30 Saturday The 80km course closes at 22:30 Saturday, requiring an average pace of approximately 12 minutes 30 seconds per kilometer (4.78 km/hr). 42km Marathon Cut-offs: Water PointDistanceCut-off TimeWP16.3kmStart + 1h 45minWP213kmStart + 3hWP324kmStart + 5hWP435kmStart + 7h 15minFinish42kmStart + 8h 30min The 42km course requires an average speed of 12 minutes, 6 seconds per kilometre or 4.96 km/hr. Participants who miss cut-offs may continue unranked or restart from the following checkpoint, depending on circumstances.

Question 8

What weather conditions should I expect in May?

Accepted Answer

The weather in the Margaret River region can be magnificent in May, but it can also be miserable – wet, cold and windy. You can assume that the race will go ahead no matter what the weather so prepare accordingly. Typical May conditions: Temperature range: Cool to mild (typically 10-20°C) Precipitation: Possible rain showers Wind: Can be strong and cold, particularly along coastal sections Variability: Conditions can change rapidly throughout the day Weather preparation strategy: The event proceeds regardless of weather conditions Mandatory gear includes windproof jacket and thermal layers. CARRY THESE. Additional recommended items include beanie, thermal gloves, and waterproof pants Dress in layers that can be adjusted throughout the race Consider the cooling effect of coastal winds when selecting gear Participants coming from warmer climates should pay particular attention to cold weather preparation, as the coastal environment can feel significantly cooler than inland temperatures.

Question 9

How challenging is the course terrain and elevation?

Accepted Answer

The Margaret River Ultra Marathon is classified as intermediate difficulty and features challenging terrain characteristics:Terrain features: Continuously undulating: The course features constant ups and downs with no real flat sections Surface variety: Combination of forest trails, coastal paths, beach sand, and rocky bluffs Technical sections: Rocky and uneven surfaces requiring careful foot placement Sand challenges: Significant soft sand sections that increase energy expenditure Course profile: 80KM COURSE: Hamelin Bay to Howard Park Winery via Cape to Cape Track 77.7km | Elev Gain: 1,630m | Elev Loss 1,555m Leg 1: 11.5km Hamelin Bay to Boranup Campsite: Elevation gain / loss: 370m / 190m Leg 2: 14.5km Boranup Campsite to Conto Campground: Elevation gain / loss: 350m / 440m Leg 3: 20km Conto Campground to Riflebutts Reserve, Gnarabu: Elevation gain / loss: 380m / 485m Leg 4: 18km Riflebutts Reserve to Gracetown Community Hall: Elevation gain / loss: 280m / 290m Leg 5: 13.7km Gracetown Community Hall to Howard Park Winery: Elevation gain / loss: 250m / 150m 42KM COURSE: Yallingup Beach to Howard Park Winery via Cape to Cape Track 42.2km |m Elev Gain: 911m | Elev Loss: 801m Section 1 – 6.3km: Start to WP1 at Yallingup Elevation gain / loss: 220m / 213m Section 2 – 6.7km: WP1 at Yallingup (6.3km) to WP2 at Wyadup Rd (13km point) Elevation gain / loss: 149m / 143m Section 3 – 9km: WP2 at Wyadup Rd (13km) to WP3 at Moses Rocks car park (24km point) Elevation gain / loss: 212m / 283m Section 4 – 11km: WP3 at Moses Rocks car park (24km) to WP4 at Juniper Road (35km point) Elevation gain / loss: 266m / 230m Section 5 – 7.4km: WP4 at Juniper Road (35km) to Howard Park (42.4km point) Elevation gain / loss: 93m / 38m Participants have described the course as “equally tough and fantastic” with the undulating nature being as challenging as any steep climbs. The combination of technical terrain, sand running, and distance makes this event a significant physical and mental challenge requiring appropriate training and preparation. This ain’t no Parkrun or road marathon (but that’s why it’s awesome – BITUMEN IS BORING!).

Question 10

What is the mandatory gear I must carry?

Accepted Answer

All Margaret River Ultra Marathon participants must carry specific mandatory gear for safety purposes. Random gear checks are conducted during the race, with a 30-minute penalty applied for each missing item: Mandatory gear for ALL runners (80km & 42km): ItemSpecificationsNotesRace number plateWorn on front, outermost garmentAvailable: elastic race beltFirst Aid Kit2 crepe bandages, 6 wound closure strips, 1 triangular bandage, 2 non-stick wound dressing pads, surgical glovesAvailable for purchaseSpace blanketEmergency thermal blanketAvailable for purchaseWhistleStandard safety whistleAvailable for purchaseMobile phoneFully charged with emergency contactsGood coverage on courseWindproof jacketGoretex or similar waterproof fabric strongly recommendedEssential for weather protectionWater containerMinimum 750ml capacity (bottle or bladder)Must be carried at all timesHead torchRequired for runners on course after sunset50m visibility, sufficient batteryLong sleeve thermal topPolypropylene, wool or similar (NOT cotton/lycra)May be made mandatory based on weather Additional mandatory gear if you are still on course after dark: White light torch or headlamp with sufficient battery power to reach the finish line Team members may pass mandatory gear between runners at transition points, but each runner must carry the complete list during their leg.

Question 11

How should I train for running on sand?

Accepted Answer

Sand running presents unique challenges that require specific training preparation. Based on participant experiences and course characteristics, effective sand training should include: Training strategies: Beach running practice: Regularly train on soft sand surfaces to develop specific muscle strength and running technique Energy conservation: Practice maintaining steady effort rather than pace, as sand running is significantly slower Leg strength development: Focus on calf, ankle, and stabilising muscle strengthening exercises Gait adaptation: Learn to lift feet higher and land more softly on unstable surfaces Practical considerations: Footwear: Consider trail shoes with good drainage and grip Gaiters: Practice with gaiters to prevent sand entry, though some still gets through Pacing strategy: Plan for 20-30% slower pace on sand sections Energy management: Save energy in early legs as sand sections become more challenging when fatigued Course-specific preparation: Train in various sand conditions (wet, dry, soft, firm) to prepare for race day variability The most significant sand sections occur in legs 3-5 of the 80km course Practice running on sand when already fatigued to simulate race conditions

Question 12

What nutrition and hydration strategy should I use?

Accepted Answer

The Margaret River Ultra Marathon provides comprehensive nutrition support at checkpoints, but participants should develop a personalised fueling strategy: Checkpoint nutrition provided: Considerable food and hydration available at all designated checkpoints Professional support designed to meet ultra-distance requirements Accessible to all competitors as part of entry fee Hydration requirements: Minimum 750ml water container mandatory Additional water/hydration recommended based on conditions and personal needs Good mobile coverage allows communication if assistance needed Recommended nutrition strategy: Pre-race: Carbohydrate loading in days leading up to event During race: Combination of checkpoint nutrition and personal supplies Personal supplies: Familiar foods that have been tested during training Electrolyte management: Consider salt replacement, especially in warmer conditions Special considerations: Drop bags: Utilise drop bag service to pre-position preferred nutrition at checkpoints Sand running: Increased energy expenditure requires additional fueling Weather adaptation: Cold conditions may reduce appetite but maintain energy needs Night running: Plan for different nutritional needs during extended efforts

Question 13

How much training time do I need to prepare?

Accepted Answer

Training requirements vary significantly based on chosen distance and current fitness level. The event website provides specific guidelines for junior participants that offer insight into recommended preparation timeline: For 42km Marathon participants: Minimum preparation: 8-12 weeks of structured training Base requirement: Ability to complete 20km in under 3 hours, preferably off-road Training progression: Gradual build-up with longest training runs reaching 25-30km Trail experience: Participate in 2+ trail races between 10-20km in the 3 months prior For 80km Ultra participants: Minimum preparation: 12-16 weeks of structured training Advanced requirement: Complete minimum 3 training runs of 4+ hours duration within 3 months of race Experience base: Participate in 2+ trail races between 20-40km in the 4 months prior Progressive loading: Systematic increase in weekly distance and back-to-back long runs Key training elements: Sand running practice: Regular training on soft surfaces Hill training: Preparation for continuously undulating terrain Night running: Practice with mandatory gear for potential after-dark sections Nutrition testing: Trial race-day fueling strategies during long training runs Participants should consult with experienced ultra runners or coaches to develop appropriate training plans based on individual circumstances and goals.

Question 14

How do I get to the start line and what time does the race begin?

Accepted Answer

The Margaret River Ultra Marathon provides comprehensive transportation logistics for both race distances: 80km Ultra Marathon (Saturday 9 May 2026): Solo start time: 6:15 AM at Hamelin Bay Team start time: 8:00 AM at Hamelin Bay Transportation: Shuttle bus departs Howard Park Wines (Finish) at 5:00 AM to take runners to the start line @ Hamelin Bay Late registration: Available 6:00-8:00 AM at Hamelin Bay start line Parking strategy: Park your car at the finish (Howard Park) and take provided transport to start 42km Marathon (Sunday 10 May 2026): Start time: 7:30 AM at Yallingup Beach Transportation: Shuttle bus departs Howard Park Wines at 6:30 AM Late registration: Available at 7:00 AM at Yallingup start line Course: Point-to-point from Yallingup Beach to Howard Park Winery Pre-race schedule: The point-to-point course design requires all participants to utilise the provided shuttle service, as private vehicle access to start locations is limited. Friday evening: Competitor registration and briefing at Howard Park Race morning: Arrive early for shuttle bus departure Bag transfer: Items not needed during race can be transferred from start to finish

Question 15

Where can my support crew/family watch and help me?

Accepted Answer

Support crew and spectators have specific designated locations where they can assist runners and watch the race: Designated support checkpoints (assistance allowed): LocationDistanceParkingNotesHamelin Bay (Start)0kmSealed car park near boat rampRace start viewingCP1 – Boranup Campsite11.5kmVERY LIMITED – 1 car per runner/teamWalk up to 2-3km to checkpointCP2 – Conto Campsite26kmVERY LIMITED – 1 car per runner/teamWalk up to 1-2km to checkpointCP3 – Riflebutts Reserve46kmGrass parking areasCoffee/food vans availableCP4 – Gracetown Hall64kmFootball ground and side streetsGracies Store nearbyHoward Park (Finish)80kmExtensive parking via Fifty-One RdMain celebration area Fan zones (encouragement only – no assistance): Support crews cannot run with or pace runners Redgate Beach car park (38.5km): Boost for runners during tough Leg 3 Ellensbrook Homestead (58km): Historic location for Leg 4 encouragement Important restrictions: Support can ONLY be provided at designated checkpoints 30-minute penalty for receiving assistance elsewhere on course No dogs or pets allowed at National Parks locations (CP1, CP2)

Question 16

What happens at aid stations and how far apart are they?

Accepted Answer

The Margaret River Ultra Marathon provides comprehensive support at strategically located checkpoints: 80km Ultra checkpoints: CheckpointDistanceServicesIntervalStart (Hamelin Bay)0kmRegistration, bag transfer–CP1 (Boranup)11.5kmNutrition, hydration, drop bags11.5kmCP2 (Conto)26kmNutrition, hydration, drop bags14.5kmCP3 (Riflebutts)46kmNutrition, hydration, drop bags20kmCP4 (Gracetown)64kmNutrition, hydration, drop bags18kmFinish (Howard Park)80kmFinish line celebration16km 42km Marathon water points: WP1: 6.3km – Basic hydration WP2: 13km – Hydration and light nutrition WP3: 24km – Full nutrition support WP4: 35km – Final major support before finish Services provided at checkpoints: Nutrition: Considerable food variety suitable for ultra-distance requirements Hydration: Water and electrolyte replacement options Drop bags: Pre-positioned personal supplies (80km only) Medical support: Professional medical personnel available Timing: Electronic timing chips record checkpoint passages Support crew access: Designated areas for crew assistance The checkpoint spacing averages 13-16km apart, requiring participants to carry sufficient supplies between stations while utilising the comprehensive support provided.

Question 17

What should I do if I need to withdraw during the race?

Accepted Answer

The Margaret River Ultra Marathon has established clear withdrawal procedures for participant safety: Mandatory withdrawal notification: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. Withdrawal procedures: Notify race officials immediately at the nearest checkpoint or via mobile phone Contact race directors: Sam Maffett (0400 001 786) or John Jacoby (0408 035 261) Proceed to designated pickup location as directed by officials Return race number and timing chip if possible Emergency contacts: Race director numbers are printed on the back of race number plates Mobile coverage is excellent across most of the course (best with Telstra) Medical support is available at all checkpoints Transportation after withdrawal: Race officials will coordinate transportation to the finish area Support crews can be contacted to arrange pickup at designated locations Shuttle services may be available depending on withdrawal location and timing Cut-off procedures: Participants missing cut-offs may continue unranked or restart from following checkpoint Final cut-off requires alternative transportation to finish line All withdrawal decisions prioritise participant safety over race completion Medical withdrawals: Special procedures apply for junior participants showing distress Professional medical support available on course Medical personnel have authority to withdraw participants for safety reasons

Question 18

Are there drop bags available and how do they work?

Accepted Answer

The Margaret River Ultra Marathon provides a comprehensive drop bag service for 80km participants, designed to support solo runners who don’t have support crews: Drop bag service details: Available for: 80km Ultra Marathon participants only Transportation: Bags transported from Howard Park registration to each checkpoint Pickup locations: All designated checkpoints (CP1, CP2, CP3, CP4) Return service: Bags returned to Event Centre when checkpoints close How the service works: Preparation: Pack drop bags with clothing, nutrition, and supplies needed at specific checkpoints Drop-off: Leave bags at registration during Friday evening check-in Labeling: Clearly label bags with name, race number, and intended checkpoint Access: Retrieve items from your bag at designated checkpoints during the race Collection: Uncollected bags returned to finish area for post-race pickup Recommended drop bag contents: Clothing changes: Weather-appropriate layers, dry socks, gloves Nutrition: Personal food preferences tested during training Medical supplies: Personal medications, additional first aid items Equipment: Spare batteries for headlamp, backup gear items Comfort items: Body lubricant, tape, personal care items Strategic considerations: Weight management: Only pack essential items to avoid carrying unnecessary weight Checkpoint timing: Consider your expected arrival time at each checkpoint Weather contingency: Include items for various weather scenarios Backup planning: Don’t rely solely on drop bags for critical items This service makes the 80km ultra accessible to runners without support crews while maintaining the self-sufficient nature of ultra running.

Question 19

What accommodation options are available near the race?

Accepted Answer

The Margaret River region offers diverse lodging options for race participants. The event is centered around Howard Park Winery in Cowaramup, with the broader Margaret River region providing numerous accommodation choices. Accommodation considerations: Proximity to Howard Park: Stay close to the finish line for easy access to registration and post-race activities Transportation: Consider shuttle bus departure times when selecting accommodation location Booking timing: Reserve accommodation early, as the event attracts 2,000 participants plus support crews Group bookings: Many relay teams and running groups book shared accommodation for the weekend experience Recommended areas: Cowaramup: Closest to Howard Park Winery finish line Margaret River town: Central location with dining and amenities Dunsborough/Yallingup: Near 42km start line, coastal accommodation options Busselton: Larger town with more accommodation variety PLEASE NOTE: There will NOT be busses going back to the start line of either races. Please drive to finish line in the morning to be shuttled to start (you’ll run back to your car!). Types of accommodation: Participants should book accommodation well in advance and consider the race weekend schedule when selecting locations and check-in/check-out times. Hotels and resorts: Full-service options with amenities Bed and breakfasts: Personalised service and local knowledge Holiday rentals: Suitable for teams and families Camping and caravan parks: Budget-friendly options for outdoor enthusiasts

Question 20

Will there be professional race photos available?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Margaret River Ultra Marathon includes professional photography as part of the entry benefits. If you would like to have access to your un-watermarked images after the race, you’ll be required to purchase them on a “pay what you think they’re worth” basis: Photography services included: Professional event photographer captures all participants along the course Multiple locations: Photos taken at various scenic points throughout the race Finish line coverage: Professional documentation of race completion moments Pay what they’re worth: You’ll be emailed a link to your photos after the event and can buy any or all of them for a price you think is fair. Photo availability: Photos are made available through our partner photography service Participants can search for their images using race number Digital downloads available for purchase post-event Social media sharing encouraged! Additional photo opportunities: Scenic course: The Cape to Cape coastline provides stunning natural backdrops Support crew photos: Family and friends can capture personal moments at checkpoints Team celebrations: Relay teams often coordinate group photos at finish line Awards presentations: Professional coverage of prize ceremonies PLEASE TAG AND OR COLLABORATE WITH RAPID ASCENT IF YOU’D LIKE YOUR EVENT DAY SOCIAL ACTIVITIES BROADCAST TO THE COMMUNITY. Photo tips for participants: Race number visibility: Ensure number is clearly visible for photo identification Smile for cameras: Photographers positioned at scenic locations throughout course Checkpoint moments: Great opportunities for photos with support crews Finish line preparation: Compose yourself for that triumphant finish photo The professional photography service adds significant value to the race experience, providing lasting memories of this challenging and scenic ultra marathon.

Question 21

What is the post-race recovery and celebration like?

Accepted Answer

The Margaret River Ultra Marathon concludes with extensive post-race celebrations at Howard Park Winery, creating a festival atmosphere for participants and supporters: Post-race celebration features: Location: Howard Park Winery – scenic vineyard setting Duration: Celebrations continue well into Saturday night for 80km finishers Live music: Entertainment throughout the weekend Food variety: Extensive food options available Wine and beer: Local beverages celebrating the Margaret River region Recovery marquee: Dedicated space for post-race recovery for solo runners Awards presentations: 80km presentations: Sunday 10:00 AM at Howard Park 42km presentations: Sunday 2:00 PM at Howard Park Categories: Multiple age group and team categories recognised Special awards: Finisher wine glass trophies for 80km solo runners achieving time goals Random prizes: Opportunity to win additional prizes at presentations Recovery services: Medical support: Professional medical personnel available for post-race care Massage services: Recovery massage available during expo hours Nutrition support: Access to recovery foods and hydration Finisher benefits: Medal presentation and celebration Weekend atmosphere: “The joy that buzzed off the runners, and those on sidelines is why we just love this event; and why we feel truly honoured by the enthusiasm displayed year after year.” – Sam Maffett, Race DirectorFamily-friendly environment: Kids Run: Sunday morning 2km event for children Spectator areas: Comfortable viewing and celebration spaces Community feel: Described as “one big happy family” by participants Scenic setting: Vineyard location provides beautiful backdrop for celebrations The post-race experience is consistently highlighted by participants as a major event strength, creating lasting memories beyond the running achievement itself.

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