EVERYTHING YOU WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT THE YURREBILLA TRAIL 56KM ULTRA BUT WERE AFRAID TO ASK…
What is the Yurrebilla Trail?
How much of the trail is off road and what is the condition of the trail?
Can I choose to run the event in a group rather than racing?
How tough is the Yurrebilla Trail 56km Ultra?
I love running trails but have never run a marathon. Will I make it?
Is there an entry criterion?
Is there a cut off?
Where does the Yurrebilla Trail 56km Ultra start?
Where do I pick up my race number?
What time does the event start?
I am a walker - can I take part in the Yurrebilla Trail 56km Ultra?
Are there any safety issues I need to be concerned about?
Do I need to carry food and drink supplies with me on the run?
What do I need to carry with me on the run?
Are there any event protocols I need to be aware of?
Can I arrange for my own special supplies and clothing to be transported to different parts of the course?
Are there toilets on the course?
Are there many spots that my friends and family can watch me throughout the event?
Where does the Yurrebilla Trail 56km Ultra finish?
Can I have a shower after the event?
Can you tell me about the post-race dinner and award ceremony?
Can you make some suggestions for cheap accommodation?
I’m coming from overseas or interstate and need some extra help arranging my trip
Will there be any advanced runnings of sections of the course for me to get familiar with the trail?
Will there be a limit to the field in 2010?
The entry form mentions an information manual?
Will there be any pre-event functions?
I have ordered some event clothing - when will I get it?
How much does the Yurrebilla Trail 56km Ultra cost?
Detailed Maps:
Map 1 - Belair to Brownhill Creek
Map 2 - Brownhill Creek to Eagle on the Hill
Map 3 - Eagle on the Hill to Greenhill Rd
Map 4 - Greenhill Rd to Norton Summit
Map 5 - Norton Summit to Blackhill
Map 6 - Blackhill to Ambers Gully
What is the Yurrebilla Trail?
The Yurrebilla Trail is one of Adelaide's treasures. The trail winds its way through a series of national parks and conservation reserves under the Mt Lofty summit, as it makes its way across the western face of the Adelaide Hills. Never more than 12 km from the centre of Adelaide, the trail offers stunning views, amazing gorges, waterfalls, wildlife and wildflowers. Commencing at Belair Railway Station in the south, the trail climbs 1575 metres and descends 1750 metres before it reaches its destination at Ambers Gully, Athelstone, a north eastern Adelaide suburb.
How much of the trail is off road and what is the condition of the trail?
The trail involves only a small amount of time on roads which connect the end of one bush track to the start of another trail. Most of the trail is excellent for running wide enough for two runners to run side by side, though there are some sections where it is quite narrow. There are also sections of the trail such as the descent into Horsnell Gully and Ambers Gully which require special care as the trail winds around and through creek beds. Much of the trail is well marked with Parks and Wildlife signage but extra signs will be put up for the event to ensure all runners stay on the course. All runners will be encouraged to run with maps of the trail.
Can I choose to run the event in a group rather than racing?
Running with others has been such a part of the enjoyment of the first two years of this event. It is great to be out on the course sharing the beauty of the trail with familiar running mates and making new friends on the day. It is hoped that running the event as a “race” will not in any way remove this part of the event. In the two previous years, small groups of similarly paced runners have formed even among the bigger groups, with runners staying together for much of the course, or at least up to the 36km mark at Morialta Cottage. It is expected that this will happen again in 2009 with the staggered starts which encourage runners of similar ability to start together.
The other advantage of the staggered start times is it enables all runners to see the other runners taking part in the event throughout the day. This is a chance for slower runners to cheer on the faster runners as they come through and for the faster runners to encourage the runners they pass.
How tough is the Yurrebilla Trail 56km Ultra?
It goes without saying that running 56 km up and down five or six valleys is hard work! But the sheer beauty of the trail, the views across the Adelaide plains and the natural cadence of the trail makes the course seem easier than it is. And the nine support stops along the trail make the course seem much shorter than 56kms. …Of course there is that final steep climb from Montacute Rd up Black Hill at the 50km mark that is just a touch testing! But from there it is downhill all the way home.
I love running trails but have never run a marathon. Will I make it?
The Yurrebilla Trail 56km Ultra is an ideal event for all comers who have got themselves fit for a long day of trail running. It is not only for those people who want to race hard, it is also a great event for people who are new to ultramarathons and want to see if they have what it takes. In 2008 several participants completed looking cheerful, although they had never before run more than a half marathon. So don’t underestimate yourself. A key focus of the event is on supporting runners of all abilities to complete the 56km trail. Remember- there is only one thing worse than running Yurrebilla - not running it!
Is there an entry criterion?
None. We leave it to you to determine whether you are ready. See the Essential Race Information for more help.. The closeness of the trail to services by way of access roads and fire tracks also guarantees runner safety, without lessening in any way the experience of being right out in the bush.
Is there a cut off?
All runners need to have left the last refreshment stop at the bottom of Black Hill on Montacute Rd by 16.15 and need to finish by 17.30 at the finish. If you are worried about making the cut off make sure you start in the first group at 7.00 or make arrangements to start earlier at 6.30am (see below - What time does the event start?)
Where does the Yurrebilla Trail 56km Ultra start?
Belair Railway Station. There is ample parking space by the Sheoak Rd entrance, and there is also access (with limited parking space) from Upper Sturt Rd.
Where do I pick up my race number?
You can pick up race numbers on the day at the start or at the pre event registration event to be organized the day before the event. Details of this pre-registration function will be announced closer to the event.
What time does the event start?
Runners are asked on the entry form to nominate one of three starting times: 06.30 (Group C), 07.30 (Group B) or 08.30 (Group A) for fast runners. .
I am a walker - can I take part in the Yurrebilla Trail 56km Ultra?
The Yurrebilla Trail 56km Ultra is open to all! If you consider that you can walk the distance in the allotted time then you are most welcome to join in the event.
Are there any safety issues I need to be concerned about?
To date there have not been any incidents on the course. The key to running safely on rough trails is 100% concentration on the trail in front of you at all times. Remember that it’s easy to get distracted when talking. You need to be especially careful when going downhill into Brownhill Creek, in Horsnell Gully Conservation Park, and in Ambers Gully. You will be asked to give way to faster runners, and respect other users of the trail.
All runners are encouraged to run with their mobile phones as there is mobile phone coverage for most of the route. Runners should enter the race controller’s number in their mobile so they can be contacted in the event of special assistance. In the event of an emergency a support person accompanied by a first-aid volunteer with basic equipment will endeavor to access the person as quickly as possible or arrange assistance for the injured person to get to the nearest vehicle access point.
The Yurrebilla Trail is a particularly safe trail as it is never far from a sealed road. In only one place (between Brownhill Creek and the Mt Barker Rd) will any runner be as much as about 3 kms from road access. There are short sections of the route on sealed roads where runners are encouraged to stay close to the right hand side of the road. Signs will be placed on these roads to warn motorists to be aware of runners and in some sections marshals will be there to assist you to cross intersections. Please ensure you follow the directions of these marshals.
Do I need to carry food and drink supplies with me on the run?
Fruit and water will be provided at the start. There will be nine support stations along the trail, with refreshments which include water, sports drink, fruit, energy gels, a bun or pastry at Cleland Wildlife Park (the one-third mark), and a sandwich “lunch” at Morialta Cottage (about the two-thirds mark). So unless, you have special requirements, there is no need to bring your own refreshments.
What do I need to carry with me on the run?
Runners are also strongly recommended to carry a mobile phone, plus a light parka in case the weather is cool or wet, and a hat. You may also like to bring tissues, plasters, and sunscreen.
Are there any event protocols I need to be aware of?
There are only just a few things that are asked of all runners. Slower runners are asked to keep alert for faster runners coming through from behind and to ensure that they can pass unhindered. This is especially on sections of the trail that are very narrow. Similarly as much of the trail passes along tracks that can be accessed by the general public, runners are requested to act with courtesy at all times to other users and to observe any park rules and regulations. Special care will need to be taken on the sections of the main trail from Waterfall Gully to Cleland Wildlife Reserve which can get quite busy on a Sunday morning. All runners are also required to clean their footwear at each hygiene station along the course to counter the spread of phytophthera (root-rot fungus) throughout the parks.
If a runner comes across another runner who has been injured then the fit runner should stop to ensure that the injured runner is alright. In the event of an emergency where a runner has been severely injured at least one runner should stay with the injured person whilst another runner seeks assistance from the closest support stop.
All runners are asked to observe the instructions of any race marshals particularly those that will be in place to assist you to cross the few major roads.
Finally, the Race Coordinator has the final say in the situation of needing to retire a runner if he feels that it is in the best interest of the runner and/or the race.
Can I arrange for my own special supplies and clothing to be transported to different parts of the course?
At the start you can place any special supplies/gear to be transported to the two major support stops at Cleland Wildlife Park (20kms) or Morialta Cottage (36kms) or the finish at Athelstone. Your gear will need to be in a bag clearly labeled with your name and where you would like the bag to be taken. In 2009 it will not be possible to transport a bag from one location to the next. Remember to include a change of clothes, towel and soap for the shower after the finish, and some money for the bar at the Athelstone Football Club.
Are there toilets on the course?
There are toilets at the start and finish. There are also toilets along the route in the following places: Belair National Park (1 km from the start); Cleland Wildlife Park (20kms) and Norton Summit (30kms).
Are there many spots that my friends and family can watch me throughout the event?
There are many spots along the way that provide an opportunity for your friends and family to cheer you on. The best suggestion is to use the location of the support spots which are all accessible by road as a guide for the best places to cheer on runners. Some of the support stops are also adjacent to sections of the trail that are on road enabling you to see runners as they access and exit the support stop.
Where does the Yurrebilla Trail 56km Ultra finish?
The Yurrebilla Trail 56km Ultra finishes at the bottom of Ambers Gully at the base of Black Hill, which is adjacent to Gorge Rd. A race clock will be set up at the finish set to the time of day, and runners will be listed with their choice of start time, so that we can work out their race time.
In previous years it has been great fun for finishers to stay around and cheer home other runners as they complete the trail. It is hoped that this tradition will continue in 2009 even though the spread of finisher times is likely to be much greater.
Can I have a shower after the event?
Hot showers will be available at the Athelstone Football Club which is located three kilometers from the end of the run. A shuttle service will be provided from the race finish to the clubrooms to enable runners to change soon after they have finished and to get back to the finish to cheer home the other runners.
Can you tell me about the post-race dinner and award ceremony?
The Awards Ceremony takes place at the Athelstone Football Club with dinner served from 16.30. A short awards and medal presentation will take place at 18.45. The cost of the dinner is included in the entry fee but you will be required to pay for your own drinks from the bar. Friends and family members are welcome to join you at a cost of $18 per meal..
Can you make some suggestions for cheap accommodation?
There are a number of options for cheap accommodation located close to the start:
Belair National Park Caravan Park (4 minutes drive from race start): tel. 08 8278 7534 (book early).
Brownhill Creek Caravan Park 10 minutes drive from the race start: tel. 08 8271 4824 or 1800 626 493.
Also within about 5 minutes of the race start are: Nunyara Holiday Units (tel. 08 8278 1673) and Nottingham Way Bed and Breakfast (08 8278 7732).
I’m coming from overseas or interstate and need some extra help arranging my trip
Overseas and interstate visitors are especially welcome. If you need any extra help or further information please email David Close.
Will there be any advanced runnings of sections of the course for me to get familiar with the trail?
The SARRC trail running group runs regular monthly trail runs in the Mount Lofty Ranges. See the calendar of events for further information. If you would like to go on the trail running email distribution list about these runs then email John Glowik. You will receive a regular trail e-news as well as tail run maps and notes in advance of each run.
In addition to these monthly runs it is proposed that the following runs will also be included for those people that want to run sections of the Yurrebilla Trail prior to the event.
Belair to Eagle on the Hill on Saturday 3 July 2010
Eagle on the Hill to Norton Summit on Saturday 31 July 2010
Norton Summit to Athelstone on Saturday 28 August 2010
Reminders about these runs will be posted on the SARRC Home Page and to those on the Trail email closer to the date.
Will there be a limit to the field in 2010?
There will be a quota of 250 in 2010.
The entry form mentions an information manual?
A race handbook with all the latest update information will be emailed to all entrants at least 10 days prior to the event. It will also be available on the SARRC website. This manual will ensue that all runners are provided with everything that they need to know for the run. Download the 2009 Yurrebilla Race Handbook
Will there be any pre-event functions?
The Pasta Party for 2010 will be held on Friday 1 October at the Astor Hotel, 437 Pulteney Street Adelaide from 7:00pm. Cost will be $20.00 per head. Let David Close know you are coming by c.o.b. on Thursday, 24 September by email or contact him on 0400 251 042.
Last minute entries can be made at Zambracca Cafe, 92-98 Melbourne St North Adelaide from 10.00am - 2.00pm on Saturday 2 October.
It is a nice stroll from town for interstate runners to a favorite SARRC post run coffee haunt! You can also pick up your race numbers / clothing orders, purchase Yurrebilla merchandise, ask questions and meet other runners.
I have ordered some event clothing - when will I get it?
Runners will be able to pick up any clothing orders either at the start or finish, or at the pre-race registration function on the Saturday morning.
How much does the Yurrebilla Trail 56km Ultra cost to enter?
SARRC members: $65 up to midnight Sunday 5 September 2010, and $85 afterwards.
Non-SARRC members: $85 up to midnight Sunday 5 September 2010, and $105 afterwards.
Entries will be accepted:
In the SARRC Office until 4pm on Friday 24 September 2010; and
Online until midnight Sunday 26 September 2010
The entry fee includes refreshments throughout the run; a finisher medal and certificate; hot showers, and dinner back at the Athelstone Football Clubrooms.
"There’s only one thing worse than running Yurrebilla…….not running it!”

THIS EVENT IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY:
YURREBILLA TRAIL 56KM ULTRA
3 October 2010
HEAD FOR THE HILLS... THE ADELAIDE HILLS... THE RACE IS ON!
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