Now that the razzmatazz of the Glasshouse 100s is done and dusted, we move onto the next race as part of the big ‘G’ series and our Big Aussies Ultra tipping competition, the Great Ocean Walk 100. Although a step down in distance (100km), just looking at the start list, this race contains real quality athletes in a similar vein to the Glasshouse 100 miler field.

As part of our coverage in the lead up to this race, we’ll be once again pulling together our form guide once (and we suggest you pay closer attention this time, not mentioning any names Mr. Burglar!), as we know of a few smokies in the field that will not necessarily be on your radar right now.

In addition to this we’ll be profiling race director, Andy Hewat (better known as Whippet to his friends). Andy is a true local legend in Australia, having raced ultras for nearly as long as I’ve been alive. His running resume is probably one of the most comprehensive in Australia, and the list of races he’s completed is as long as your arm and then some. Of note, Andy is a multiple finisher at the infamous Hardrock 100 miler based over in the States. This, along with the unassumingly named ‘Barkley marathons‘, ranks as probably one of the toughest 100 milers in the world. A lot of races claim to be the toughest, runners will tell you this one is.

Andy is also the only person to have entered and completed a race in the GNW 100s, since its inception 2005. He ran the 100km race in its debut year, and since then has finished the 100 miler five years on the trot –  a majestic feat in itself. This year, Andy will be aiming for finish number six in what will be a very special moment I’m sure for him and his friends on Patonga Beach come Sunday 13th November.

As mentioned, our tipping competition will be in full flow once again, and Ultra168’s plan is to provide race commentary throughout the course of the day on October 15th. It’s all to play for in the tipping competition, given the very low number of people who backed Mike Le Roux. The person that correctly tips the winner (and closest time if needed), will once again receive a Hammer goody bag containing an assortment of gels and bars, along with some tubs of Heed and a book. In addition, they’ll also get a year’s subscription to Outer Edge magazine – all this is worth over $200.

BUT… as we know, this is just the prelude to the big Grand Final so to speak. The overall winner of our tipping competition (the person that correctly guesses the most winners) will get to win over $1,500 worth of running swag. There’s so much gear that even I’m jealous of how much is on offer. Still, you’ve got to be in it to win it guys and girls, so get your thinking caps on now, and watch out for our form guide.

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Dan

I'm a mediocre runner who can bat above his average when I train hard. A man of extremes, I do enjoy everything life offers and consider it an absolute pleasure just to be able to put one foot in front of the other and let my mind wander somewhere different.