Extreme multi-sport event returns

Some of the toughest and most daring national endurance athletes will make an epic journey in the heart of Baw Baw in a gruelling one day multi-sport event this weekend.
Known as 'Baw Baw Extreme,' the event will be an epic 84km course that will see participants run, paddle, bike and run again all the way from Walhalla to the Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort via the rapids of the Thompson River. Individuals, pairs and relay teams will set off as they attempt to conquer a fully-marked off-road course set in Baw Baw's ruffed mountainous terrain.
Combining the disciplines of kayaking, mountain biking and trail running, Baw Baw Extreme is designed to test competitors' physical and mental capabilities, create a sense of connection with nature and the environment and to showcase Baw Baw Shire's stunning natural attractions to an active community. Solo competitors will paddle, run and ride the course non-stop on their own while others will compete as a team, completing one discipline per person or splitting the course into a two-day journey.
Entrants will first set off on a 5km run from Walhalla to the Thomson Railway Bridge, before embarking on a downriver paddle on the Thomson River for 14km. Following that, it's a mountain bike trip from Bruntons Bridge to Erica as the two-day racers finish their first leg here. Those continuing onward will bike from Erica to O'Sheas Mill Site in East Tyers for a total of 40km by bike. It's then the final sprint with a 25km trail run from there to the top of Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort.
Participants for the event will come from all across Victoria as well as from interstate. Victorian Tim Boote will be an entrant, while there will be appearances from other Australian extreme sport aficionados like last year's winner Luke Haines, Queensland's Klayten Smith and Tasmanian elite racers Robbie Hunt and Sorcha Flett.
Solo athletes in the one day event will be racing for $4000 cash prizes, while everyone can give it a go and become their own hero in one day relay category or the two-day event.
Baw Baw Shire mayor Michael Leaney said he was very excited to see the return of the event.
"Baw Baw Shire is thrilled to welcome back Baw Baw Extreme for another year. We look forward to seeing the competitors in action as they tackle the challenging course and navigate the diverse and picturesque landscapes of our incredible region," he said.
For more information on the event visit www.bawbawextreme.com.au.