Byron Rainforest Run: Minyon Ultra 50km

Last Saturday, the alarm wasn’t needed—at 2:48 a.m. I was already wide awake, fueled by pre-race adrenaline as always. A few cappuccinos and some light reading later, I got to work loosening up my muscles with some stretching and the foam roller, mentally preparing for what would be my second ultra trail marathon.

Now, I know that 50 km isn’t a “true” ultra in some circles, but once you go beyond the marathon distance—especially with over 2,000 meters of elevation gain—you feel every single kilometer. Back when I ran my first 50+ km race in Armidale about two and a half years ago, there was a lot less climbing involved. Plus, I’d actually trained on hills. This time, I just had to trust that it would somehow work out.

And it did—more or less! Running uphill wasn’t even an option, so I ended up hiking at least 10 kilometers of the course. My main goal was simply to stay within the cut-off time. Still, I couldn’t help but wonder how the frontrunners managed to finish more than four hours ahead of me. Among them was one of our local triathlon coaches and former Ironman 70.3 World Champion Tim Reed, who came in fourth—just 12 minutes behind the top three.

In the end, I had to admit something to myself: I’m still more of a triathlete than a true ultra trail runner. And that’s okay. This run through the stunning Nightcap National Park was a truly memorable experience, and I highly recommend this small but beautifully organized event.

For me, the focus now shifts to training for Ironman 70.3 Sunshine Coast on September 14, 2025—where I’ll attempt (yet again) to break the elusive 5-hour barrier. Maybe the 10th try will be the charm. 😉