Event Overview
The Great Ocean Trail Ultra (GOTU) is a point-to-point ultra-run following the established Great Ocean Walk. The 2026 event is scheduled for Saturday 24 October, with a 100km solo race, a two-person relay that splits approximately 55km and 45km, and a 45km solo option that covers the second half of the route. Start locations differ by distance, with the 100km starting in Apollo Bay and the 45km starting at Johanna Beach.
What the Course Demands
GOTU uses the official Great Ocean Walk track and organisers note that distances can vary slightly due to measurement differences. Navigation is part of the challenge: marking is described as minimal, and runners are expected to follow Parks signage and manage junctions correctly, including key beach exits. The race is run with checkpoint cut-offs and a final finish cut-off (noted as 1am for the 100km), so steady forward progress across the day is required.
Who This Event Suits Best
This event suits runners who are comfortable with long, continuous efforts on a remote, signposted walking track where self-navigation matters. The 45km can fit athletes who want a substantial outing without committing to the full day of the 100km, while the relay category suits pairs who want to share the full course with an uneven split. For the 100km, prior ultra experience is commonly expected by organisers.
