It was a Hume & Hovell kind of weekend

Contributed by Peter and Val FitzParick

The sixth Hume & Hovell Ultra was held on the weekend of October 14 and 15 in the spectacular mountains around Tumbarumba, in the Snowy Mountains foothills. There was a large contingent of 195 runners spread between the 22kms, 50kms and 100kms events with 16 participants tackling the 100-miler with the total number of entrants doubling last year’s numbers.

The weather was perfect with highs of 26 degrees whilst dropping to a character-building zero overnight. The track was in perfect condition too, giving runners every opportunity for a great run and the possibility of a PB – especially when compared to last years’ soggy conditions. The stunning scenery and abundance of native wildlife and wild horses surprise runners every year and 2017 was no exception with many runners stopping to take photos and appreciate Australia’s beauty. The rugged and challenging terrain, teamed with the area’s remoteness and isolation, provided everyone with a chance to pit their skills against the best that a trail run can throw at them.

Although challenging, the Hume & Hovell Ultra is perfect to begin a move into trail running due to generous cut-off times, the well-marked course, the amazing volunteers, and the support networks available to every entrant. Many took advantage of free camping at the start/finish line and building on the warmth and camaraderie of the event, with many finishers being cheered in through the night by fellow runners, volunteers and family.

In the end 14 belt buckles were handed out for the 100 milers with 147 runners completing the range of distances and being presented medals and various other prizes and awards. The weekend’s events were finished off on the Sunday morning with a complimentary hot breakfast, the sharing of war stories and the comparing of blisters.

Adam O’Rourke, who successfully completed the 50kms run had the following to say about his experience:

“Last weekend I had the pleasure of running the Hume & Hovell Ultra. The course is one of the most scenic, not to mention challenging, trails I’ve been on. It’s a very well-marked out course that takes runners through thick bushland on the outskirts of Tumbarumba, NSW. The aid stations were well stocked with plenty of food and drinks, and manned by some very supportive and uplifting volunteers.

“It’s also one of the most organised events I have attended. From the Friday night briefing to the Sunday presentations, everything just seemed to flow seamlessly. The atmosphere was fantastic on Saturday night, standing around the fire, cheering home the 100kms runners and listening to their stories was great.

“I highly recommend the Hume & Hovell to any trail or road runner thinking of making the jump up to an ultra or for anyone just looking for a weekend in some glorious countryside with a bunch of likeminded people.”

Visit AURA’s results page here for a full list of Hume & Hovell’s results.

Pictured: The finish line at this year’s Hume & Hovell. Photograph – John Philip Eyles/Facebook.