MORE than 500 runners descended on Ulong and the rugged Bindarri National Park for Rumble in the Jungle, one of Australia’s fastest-growing trail running events, hosted by Coffs Trail Runners Inc (CTR).
Race day on Saturday, 1 August 2026 dawned cold and sunny as a record number of participants arrived with families, friends and supporters. Entries were up by more than 120 competitors on 2025’s event.
“The dust has settled, and the mud has been worn like badges of honour, but the energy of the fifth annual Rumble in the Jungle is still echoing through the hinterland,” CTR volunteer Chris Hamilton told News Of The Area.
“The atmosphere was electric across all six distances.”
The inaugural, sold-out 100km Ultramarathon took centre stage, pushing athletes through a gruelling yet breathtaking +3,000m of elevation.
Chris Lenkic won the 100km, crossing the finish line in a phenomenal 9:04:50 – an outstanding run from start to finish that set an incredibly high benchmark for future editions.
Coffs Trail Runners club member Clare Palmer claimed the title of first female in the 100km.
Claire smashed her goal of running sub-12 hours by crossing the finish line in 11:43:30. This performance also saw her finish third outright.
Trail enthusiasts also crushed the sold-out 50km, along with the 30km, 21km, and 8km courses, while the free 1km kids and family run brought pure joy around the Ulong Hall oval and creek.
Race Director Keelan Birch said the event was about much more than running.
“Rumble in the Jungle is about bringing people together to experience the incredible landscapes of Bindarri National Park while supporting the local community of Ulong,” he told NOTA.
“Seeing hundreds of runners, volunteers, local businesses and residents all come together over the weekend is what makes this event so special.
“We want people to leave not only proud of what they’ve achieved on the trails, but with a real appreciation for this beautiful part of the Coffs Coast and the warm welcome they’ve received from the Ulong community.
“It’s a partnership that benefits everyone.”
Coffs city resident Elize Strydom, 42, ran the 50km, her first ultramarathon race, and was the sixth-placed woman.
“Everyone was so welcoming and communication in the lead-up had been super clear,” she told NOTA.
“The course was stunning – a mix of fire trails surrounded by beautiful bushland, lush rainforest tracks, knee-deep creek crossings and flowing waterfalls.
“Other participants were so encouraging, especially as we trudged up the brutal hills (one was 4km long).”
There were high fives, supportive shouts and pats on the back.
“Six hours later, when I finally made it back to Ulong, I was met with claps and cheers from strangers and supporters.
“As I crossed the finish line a custom-made wooden medal was placed around my neck and I was congratulated by the friendly timing team.
“The atmosphere was electric and I was absolutely elated,” she said, promising to be back next year.
Beyond athletic feats, the heart of the Rumble shone bright.
Demonstrating the true spirit of the region, the event supported the local community and businesses, who in turn provided much-needed sponsorship, support, volunteers, and equipment.
These people worked tirelessly from pre-event prep to post-run pack up to keep every runner safe, hydrated, and motivated.
By Andrea FERRARI
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