EAGER runners are being challenged to enter the 34th Puffing Billy Great Train Race on Sunday 3 May. This annual event will see Puffing Billy challenge up to 3500 runners over a distance of 13.5km through the Dandenong Ranges, from Belgrave to Emerald Lake Park.
The race is one of the oldest and most popular events on the Australian running calendar, with runners pitting their fitness against the popular tourist icon.
However, it’s not just the steam train that runners need to concern themselves with, it’s also the varying terrain of sealed and dirt roads as they traverse the hills of the Dandenong Ranges.
The female winner for the past two years has been Sarah Klein from Moorooduc.
Sarah is returning again this year and is aiming to become the first runner to win three consecutive races.
“I’ve always enjoyed competing in the Great Train Race,” she said.
“It has a quality field of athletes, the course is tough, which tests my fitness and you run through such beautiful surroundings.
“One of my favourite moments is catching the train back to Belgrave once the race is over and having all the locals and volunteers wave at us as the train goes by.”
Special Events manager Matt Collopy said last year’s entries were fully subscribed within 10 days.
“I encourage those people interested in running this year to enter as soon as possible via our secure website at www.puffingbilly.com.au,” he said.
Proceeds will aid the restoration of the NGG 16 127 Garratt locomotive.
The event is supported by Yarra Valley Water, Brooks, Active Feet and Gatorade.
Entry fee for early bird entrants are adults $70 and children (13 – 16 years) $50.
Early entrant deadline is Tuesday 10 March.
Late entrants for adults are $80 and children (13 – 16 years) $60.
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