Courses
The 6K course
The long one. The 3K route extended north through the bush trails to the turnaround point, then all the way back. Earns the post-run barbecue.
Start and finish
Same poles, longer legs
The 6K starts at the same two poles on Shelly Beach as the 3K, and finishes in the same place. The starter calls handicap times every ten seconds from the start line.
The route
From the start, follow the bluey-green signs up the steps at the north end of the beach. Turn right along the road for about 30 metres, then follow the sign across the grass and up the steps to the steep slope leading to the tarmac path above.
Continue along the tarmac to the Heritage Pathway, which goes down and to the right under a wooden archway. Navigate through the trees to the car park, but instead of descending to Angels Beach, continue northward past the white checkered boards through another car park to the turnaround point, which is marked on the tarmac.
The return journey retraces through the bush path back to the beach. Run south along the beach, ascend Heartbreak Hill at the end, then take the tarmac path back toward the Shelly Beach car park and the finish line.
On the day
The Safety Officer runs the course early each week to check that the steps are safe, the drop at the 6K section is clear, and Heartbreak Hill is accessible. If anything changes, you will be told at the start line.
Follow the bluey-green signs at every turn. Safety volunteers are stationed at key points and will redirect you if needed.