COFFS Trail Runners will host the 16th Washpool World Heritage Trails event this Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 March.
The weekend sees trail runners challenge themselves on picturesque courses through World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforests in Washpool and Gibraltar Range National Parks.
“Runners flock to Washpool World Heritage Trails because it offers a rare combination of wilderness, challenge and community that is difficult to find in many trail events,” Coffs Trail Runners president Keelan Birch told News Of The Area.
The landscapes include ancient rainforest, granite outcrops, waterfalls and clear creeks.
“For runners, that means moving through constantly changing scenery, from cool fern forests to open high-country ridges, which makes the experience feel more like an adventure than a standard race,” Keelan said.
There are three runs: 50km Ultra, 25km and 9km courses.
“To ensure our impact on the World Heritage Area is manageable we have 150 runners in the 50km on Saturday, and 200 runners between 25km and 9km on Sunday,” said Keelan, who will complete the 9km run while managing all his event duties.
In the 50km Ultra, local course record holder Dan Stein, 2023 champion Tait Hearps and defending winner Benjamin Lambert will lead the charge for Coffs Harbour.
They face strong competition from Armidale runners Trent Irwin and Nathan Hewitt, both previous runners-up, along with three-time champion David Waugh, setting up another chapter in the long-running tablelands versus coast rivalry.
The women’s 50km Ultra field is just as exciting, with Emma Packer flying the flag for Coffs Harbour.
Teagan Porter from Queensland, Clem Eaton from Grafton and Ray Firth from the Central Coast area also in the running.
The 25km event showcases the best of Washpool in a shorter format, with men’s record holder Kayden Elliott headlining the field.
Meg Dougherty, Annabelle Swainston and Olivia Hulbert are among the leading contenders in the women’s race.
While the elite match-ups will draw attention, organisers say the event’s true strength lies in its community spirit. “The race is organised by volunteers from the local trail running community, creating a welcoming and grassroots feel,” Keelan said.
“Remote checkpoints are staffed by volunteers, families camp together under the rainforest canopy and runners of all abilities encourage each other through the toughest climbs.
“The event prioritises camaraderie, inclusivity and environmental responsibility rather than large commercial race production.”
The Washpool event remains intentionally small, with entries often selling out.
“That smaller field helps preserve the wilderness feel of the trails and fosters a strong connection among runners, volunteers and the landscape.”
By Andrea FERRARI
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