James Murphy
THE second annual Robe Run will take place in the picturesque seaside town this weekend.
Organised by Adelaide Trail Runners, the feedback from last year’s inaugural event was all positive and it appears to have locked itself on the state’s running calendar for the foreseeable future.
Founder of Adelaide Trail Runners Brett Crosby spoke to The Border Watch this week and said they had already locked in dates with District Council of Robe for the 2025 and 2026 events.
Looking at the 2024 event, which will take place on Saturday, there are already a strong number of registrations.
“We have over 400 (entries) at the moment,” Crosby said.
“Online entries closed at 9am Thursday, but we can still take entries on Friday at the Institute building in Robe from 3-7pm.
“That is when our bib pick up and sponsors expo is on.”
Last year’s event had 498 runners compete, with Crosby expecting an influx of late entries during today’s window.
Also taking place today will be a new addition to the weekend, with the introduction of the “Robes Run” at 6pm.
“It is just a fun event and it is totally free, it is not timed either,” Crosby said.
“People can come and walk or jog at their leisure, but we are encouraging people come dressed in their favourite bath robe.
“It will certainly be a bit of fun.”
For the main event there will again be four distances on offer, with only a couple of changes made to the courses.
“The big change this year is we are closing down the main street and runners will start by running down the main street,” Crosby said.
In addition, the 13km event has now been changed to a 14km run, which will include a short stretch along Long Beach.
That will join the 5km fun run, 21.1km half marathon and 42.2km marathon, with the longer distances a unique mix of roads, beach and trail running.
Strong numbers from Adelaide are expected again, in addition to the many Limestone Coast runners.
Crosby said there was also a large contingent from Victoria who would make the trip for the event.
“I haven’t checked this year’s numbers, but last year we had 28 per cent of the field from Victoria,” he said.
“Robe is ideally positioned to attract runners from a wide range of areas.
Runners are treated to some spectacular views throughout the run, with the unique coastline a major drawcard.
“This run really has something for everybody and it is quite unique,” he said.
“You have beach, roads, coastal trails and the amazing views of the coastline and the Obelisk.
“I can’t think of another run which would have so much variation.”
While it is only the second Robe Run, Crosby hoped to see it become an iconic event on the running calendar.
“We do have some bigger plans we hope to roll out in the coming years,” he said.
“Our plan is to certainly keep growing the event and possibly add extra events to the weekend.”
Further information on Saturday’s event is available at roberun.com.au.
