The fifth edition of the Margaret River Ultra Marathon has reached capacity in record time, attracting 1,500 participants within six weeks of entries opening, ahead of the May 2022 event.
Organisers say they predicted the 80 kilometre point-to-point course would sell out, but were overwhelmed with the speed of the sign ups.
"We are overwhelmed by the enthusiasm for the race, particularly from individual competitors up by 65 per cent from the 2021 event." said Sam Maffett, General Manager of organisers Rapid Ascent.
"After witnessing a huge increase in entry numbers over the past four years, we predicted the same trend to continue but wowee, that was quick!"
The ultra marathon is regarded as one of WA's most in-demand endurance races.
Rapid Ascent said they imposed an entry limit of 1,500 to preserve the competitor experience for those running on the day.
A waiting list is offered via the event website for those who have missed out; with slots to be made available if and when a current entrant withdraws.
The 80 kilometre point to point course offers challenging and picturesque trail running for competitors as they make their way from Hamelin Bay to Wilyabrup.
A total of 420 competitors will tackle the course as solo runners, with the remainder of the sold-out field running as part of a relay team of 2 to 5 members covering 10 to 20 kilometres each.
"The people, the places, the faces, the stories, the flowing celebratory beverages... it truly is an exceptional event and we can't wait to host the 2022 edition come May," said Maffett.
Amongst the solo competitors are WA athletes Joshua Kuhn and Scarlett Duncan, who both finished second at the 2021 event in times of 7:36.26 and 8:39.44 (respectively) and are on the hunt for top of the podium in 2022.
The Settlers Express relay team of five returns to defend their lightning fast course record of 6:19.00.
"The idea to run together came about over a few beers at a 20 year reunion so we thought why not!? And we definitely have to back up that win again," said team captain Sam Maxwell.
Competitors will finish with a celebratory beverage at the Cheeky Monkey Brewery, the official event venue.
The 2022 Margaret River Ultra Marathon will be held in the Margaret River Region on May 7, 2022.
For more information head to www.MRUltramarathon.com.au