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.

The Margaret River Ultra Marathon offers a tiered pricing structure with standard and late entry fees. Pricing is as follows:

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.

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.

The 80km Ultra Marathon offers two distinct participation formats:

1. 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

2. 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.

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.

The Margaret River Ultra Marathon enforces strict cut-off times to ensure participant safety and course management:

80km Ultra Marathon Cut-offs:

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:

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.

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.

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!).

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):

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.

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

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

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.

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

Support crew and spectators have specific designated locations where they can assist runners and watch the race:

Designated support checkpoints (assistance allowed):

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)

The Margaret River Ultra Marathon provides comprehensive support at strategically located checkpoints:

80km Ultra checkpoints:

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.

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:

1. Notify race officials immediately at the nearest checkpoint or via mobile phone
2. Contact race directors: Sam Maffett (0400 001 786) or John Jacoby (0408 035 261)
3. Proceed to designated pickup location as directed by officials
4. 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

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:

1. Preparation: Pack drop bags with clothing, nutrition, and supplies needed at specific checkpoints
2. Drop-off: Leave bags at registration during Friday evening check-in
3. Labeling: Clearly label bags with name, race number, and intended checkpoint
4. Access: Retrieve items from your bag at designated checkpoints during the race
5. 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.

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

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.

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 Director
Family-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.