My 2027 Surf Coast Century Dream
You know those moments when a seemingly ordinary task sparks an extraordinary idea? For me, it happened just recently while folding laundry. I picked up an old running t-shirt from the Surf Coast Century, and the date printed on it hit me: eight years old. In 2027, that shirt will be a full decade old. And suddenly, a long-held dream resurfaced with crystal clarity.
My history with the Surf Coast Century goes back to 2017. That year, I ran leg three of the relay, covering about 28km. It was my longest run to date, a significant milestone at the time. As I finished, a little voice whispered, “You could do the 50k.” That thought stuck with me, even as other running goals took precedence. I focused on smashing a half-marathon personal best and diligently built up my long-distance running, culminating in the completion of my first Ultra in 2019 – yes, back at the Surf Coast Century!
Now, here’s where fate, or perhaps just good timing, steps in. Back when I first considered the 50km distance, it comprised the final two legs of the 100km course. I’d always been drawn to the earlier sections of the course, a part of me yearning to experience them. Recently, the event organisers decided to switch the 50 km distance to cover the first two legs of the course. This change solidified my resolve. Having always wanted to experience this specific half of the course, I knew, without a doubt, that I wanted to return.
So, here I am, sitting on the couch, the washing folded, and that idea from 2017 feels more real and urgent than ever. I’m giving myself until 2027 – two years from now – to train for the Surf Coast Century 50k. It’s plenty of time to build my endurance and get those kilometres back into my legs. I might only be running around 20km a week currently, which is less than I used to, but I know that progress isn’t always linear. I’ve achieved big running goals before, and I’m absolutely ready to do it again. The journey to the 50k starts now!