172 replies to this topic

[GTR]

To Great Train Race Enthusiasts

Planning is well under way for the 31st GTR, to be held on Sunday May 6, 2012.

The number of runners will be capped at 3200 runners and its expected the registrations will be fully subscribed within 5 weeks of opening.

To ensure you receive email notifications of when registrations open (IN FEBRUARY 2012), please ensure you update ALL your personal details by clicking on UPDATE OR CHECK YOUR DETAILS on the Great Train Race page on Puffing Billy's website www.puffingbilly.com.au

Additionally, if you have never registered for the Great Train Race and are keen to run in 2012, please visit the website and click on JOIN THE GREAT TRAIN RACE MAILING LIST.

Look forward to seeing you on the Start Line for the 31st Great Train Race

[shark]

I'll be there - best community run in Vic.  Organisation has improved dramatically in the last couple of years.

Please get the driver to drive slowly this year - I need a win.

s

[Runjohnyrun]

I will be there as well for my second run at this event. If I could only run one event next year, this would be the one I would pick as I had so much fun this year. I would like to think I have improved a fair bit this year so hoping for a big improvement in my pb.

[Dusted68]

An epic event. 2011 was my 2nd go after a 10yr absense; those hills were much longer than I remembered. Very pleased to make it through just prior to the second train - but not pleased with how I felt compared to the 1st time.  2012 I aim to go under 60mins. Will need to hit some trails and hills for sure in the lead up. Looking fwd to it!

[Tiger Boy]

Not for me this time.
The last couple of years the train driver and organisers have decided that only the truly elite should be in with a chance of beating the train, so for me the challenge has been taken away.
Used to be if you could run about 52 - 54 minutes you had a fighting chance (never a certainty, but you were in the game), now you need to be sub50 to be sure and 50.xx is no guarantee.
Unlike the train, as I get older and my parts wear out, I can't get a replacement part (well not one that would work as well, unless I get bionic legs ala Steve Austin).
It's a shame, because I used to enjoy this race, but there are plenty of other races out there, I'm sure I will find something.

[Clarry]

 Tiger Boy, on 16 December 2011 - 04:12 PM, said:

Not for me this time.
The last couple of years the train driver and organisers have decided that only the truly elite should be in with a chance of beating the train, so for me the challenge has been taken away.
Used to be if you could run about 52 - 54 minutes you had a fighting chance (never a certainty, but you were in the game), now you need to be sub50 to be sure and 50.xx is no guarantee.
Unlike the train, as I get older and my parts wear out, I can't get a replacement part (well not one that would work as well, unless I get bionic legs ala Steve Austin).
It's a shame, because I used to enjoy this race, but there are plenty of other races out there, I'm sure I will find something.

[Clarry]

I encourage everyone to do this run.  Done for last 11 years and my favorate run.  Well price, well organised, capped for a manageable field, and great prizes.  As for train times I see both sides of the story but for me it's not about the train entirely.  The PB for the course is my ultimate goal, as most races are,  I would rather a PB and not beat the train than a slower time beating the train.  The train is just a fun element.  If the time was consistent, say 54mins, and you beat it every year it would not have the same challenge.  I love the fact that I have the massive challenge of improving to beat the train.  Lets face it over the years the time ranges between 48 - 74 mins giving all ranges of times a chance.  I may not have changed Tiger Boy's mind but this year I have a feeling the train may be a bit forgiving after past 2 years.  Happy christmas and happy running.

[carlgorka]

This looks like great fun. If I'm not working, I'll definitely sign up. It'll be my first race

[MeCookie]

what prizes are on offer this year for beating the train, and will males and females have equal chance to enter the draw this time?

[martin1000]

Lets not turn this into a thread debating how fast or slow the train should go...was done to death last year. I'm sure there will be no trouble filling he 3200 places, it's a great event.

[toolittletoolate]

Did this one last year for the first time and my first organised event and loved it.  Will deff be back this year to have another go. Dont think I'll be beating the train but if I can beat my last years time and maybe the ladies train I will be happy.

[Campbell]

 Tiger Boy, on 16 December 2011 - 04:12 PM, said:

Not for me this time.
The last couple of years the train driver and organisers have decided that only the truly elite should be in with a chance of beating the train, so for me the challenge has been taken away.
Used to be if you could run about 52 - 54 minutes you had a fighting chance (never a certainty, but you were in the game), now you need to be sub50 to be sure and 50.xx is no guarantee.
Unlike the train, as I get older and my parts wear out, I can't get a replacement part (well not one that would work as well, unless I get bionic legs ala Steve Austin).
It's a shame, because I used to enjoy this race, but there are plenty of other races out there, I'm sure I will find something.

Why would you spit the dummy over that?? Sounds like you're giving in.

It's still the same course. Your time will still be comparable. The fact the train has been faster is a by-line to the actual event, and in fact has added a new element of interest - I never thought I'd get stopped by the train but did twice last year.

Worry about the things you can control - your race - and deal with the things you can't.

[Tiger Boy]

 Campbell, on 12 January 2012 - 08:10 AM, said:

Why would you spit the dummy over that?? Sounds like you're giving in.

It's still the same course. Your time will still be comparable. The fact the train has been faster is a by-line to the actual event, and in fact has added a new element of interest - I never thought I'd get stopped by the train but did twice last year.

Worry about the things you can control - your race - and deal with the things you can't.

Campbell - you don't know me, so who are you to say I am dummy spitting? I find that to be highly offensive. But just in case you don't understand, I will spell it out (although I'm not sure I need to defend my actions to anyone, least of all someone I don't know).
We all run for different reasons, we all have our own goals and objectives. For me this event was a race between me and the train. I wasn't racing the other 3200 people on the course, just the steam engine and its driver. The train time may be a by-line to you, but it wasn't for me. My finishing time and place weren't overly important, just beating the train. Your reasons for running this are obviously different to mine. Neither is right and neither is wrong. The are both reflective of what we want from the event.
When the train ran within its previous parameters it was a fair dinkum race for me. I had to be at the top of my game to be in with a chance. I couldn't have  couple of slack kms in the middle, I had to push to my limit and even then there was sometimes only seconds in the race. Now that the organisers have decided to make beating the train a lot harder, the challenge for me is gone. It may only be 2-3 minutes, but that represents another 600-800 metres, and as I previously said, age is catching up to me. I have to work hard just to stay at this level, so I am not going to knock off enough time to be in the race any more.

By all means everyone, go out and race (or be part of the event). I'm just saying that I won't be there, that there are enough other races and challenges for me during the year to get my racing fix, and the event won't miss me as I'm sure it will sell out again.

[TimboTheSlow]

I did last years and blew a knee on one of the downhills, meaning a slow jog to the finish.  Apart from that i thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm definitely going to be back this year!

The trains are definitely just part of the occasion, i'm just hoping it wakes up with a hangover ...that's my only shot

[luckyguy]

Actually Campbell, T.B's comments are very valid, fair and reasonable particularly coming from a runner who is obviously very competitive and whom like many, enters the race with the view of beating either the 1st or 2nd train (and of course, there are many others who like the chance to just have a stroll in the hills - each to their own). This is what makes this event unique and different to the myriad of other fun runs out there. In his view he is not getting a fair crack at this race due to the previous 2 years where only those runners at the very top elite would have had a chance.

For many, this is not only a race against other competitors but also a race against a train(s). Thus the name 'The Great Train Race'. I would have thought as an elite runner yourself, you would be able to empathise with his view.

Lastly, T.B expressed an opinion, simply put without malice or 'dummy spitting' as you put it.

Michael.

[Campbell]

I'm sorry that I caused offence - it was not inteded, and using the term dummy spit was inappropriate.

However think of it from another point of mine...mine, for example. I've done the race 6-7 times and never see the train because I'm in front of it. But the last two years I have, and last year got stopped twice meaning my goal time was blown out. Rather than be disappointed, I thought it was great that I now got to experience what the train race is all about for many others...after all, the train time varies every year, anyway.

So rather than think how annoyed you are that you can't race the train, other people certainly are, and whether next year the same happens or not I'll still be back for the challenge of the event, my time against a time-tested course and more reasons. There's always more than one point of view on most things...the train time being one of them, and I've never read anywhere that the train runs within strict parameters. It's their race so they can make the rules, ie, train time, however they want!!!

See you on the start line in 2012!!

[Grechy]

I am thinking of giving this one a go for the first time but I am put off by the idea of getting stopped by the train. Also the fact that it might sell out also annoys me as I like to enter races at the last minute to avoid cursing myself.

Generally I like to enter the same races each year to compare my time with the previous year so beating the train won't motivate me so much.

[kazz]

I'll be running this race for the first time this year along with my partner. We wanted to run it last year but it was full before I got around to registering so I've joined the mailing list to make sure I don't miss out this year! I can't wait, it should be fun:)

[loubee]

This is without a doubt one of the best races I have been in. Everytime you hear the train whistle you run a little harder so it doesn't catch you so I will do what I can to be in Melbourne for this again. The beauty of this race is the cut off times are so strict you have a field full of runners who want to run and not walkers (please don't take offence any walkers) which just creates a really great buzz.

I completely understand Tiger Boy, we race for our own personal reasons, all of which are valid. The train is an integral part of the run, if you are a good enough runner to be in with a chance of beating the first train then you want it to be on an even playing field. I beat the second train, just, but it was a highlight and without knowing I was in with a chance the race would lose a little of the fun.

[luckyguy]

I won't be racing Puffing Billy either. Not that I mind being beaten by the train (though I'd prefer not) but as I live in the hills, about 15 minutes from the finish at Emerald, there is no real novelty value for me and also I like to keep my 50/50 race record in tact, particularly now as I'm in my 50's and it is getting more difficult to beat the old boy.

As others have said, this is a very unique running experience in a magnificent bush setting. The course is a little bit challenging with three significant inclines but a relatively short distance of 13+ k's which I think would be achievable for most reasonably fit runners.

As has been the custom, we usually put together a training run early April to accommodate the novices who wish to look the course over and those of us who just like to get out with good company and go for a run in a different setting.

Last years link is here at Puffing Billy Training Run. So keep your eyes peeled for this proposed training run post around March.

Good training all, Michael.

Edited by luckyguy, 13 January 2012 - 11:34 AM.

[carlgorka]

I just been on holiday to New Zealand and saw a similar event there:

http://www.activeqt....ce-information/

http://www.scene.co....r/295844a1.page

Looks like I'll definitely be able to run the Puffing Billy this year

[GTR]

Great Train Race Singlets

Due to the feedback received from our runners after the 2011 GTR, we will be introducing a Great Train Race running singlet in 2012.  This is a Brooks running singlet that will be available for purchase at $40 per singlet.  

There is only a limited 300 singlets available so please ensure you get in early and purchase your singlet at the time of entry.

Sizes and styles will be posted on our website in the coming days.

Remember entries will be opening in approximatly two weeks so please ensure all your details, including email address are updated on our webiste

http://www.puffingbi...eat-train-race/

See you on the Start Line on Sunday May 6, 2012

[toolittletoolate]

Entries have just opened for this, is anyone else having trouble with the website or is it just me.  Will try from home later and see if that works.

[lyricnz]

Website seems to be having problems processing payments. I emailed them, they said try again in an hour.  I actually just did it again, and it worked. Woop!  Bib 3233 - no idea how they came up with that

[toolittletoolate]

 lyricnz, on 14 February 2012 - 02:25 PM, said:

Website seems to be having problems processing payments. I emailed them, they said try again in an hour.  I actually just did it again, and it worked. Woop!  Bib 3233 - no idea how they came up with that

Thanks I will try again.

Worked this time - bib number 4664

Edited by toolittletoolate, 14 February 2012 - 02:46 PM.

[OOareya]

3280...giddy up
and got Mrs OOareya and the kids to travel on the second train.

[MrsH]

Bib 1564 here Hubby & boy travelling on first train so they can be at the finish before me

[Runjohnyrun]

Bib 4823. Ready and raring to go. Looking forward to a solid improvement on last years time.

[GTR]

Entries are filling very fast - within 22 hours of opening, 700 entries have already been received

Please ensure you register ASAP to ensure your spot on the Start Line on Sunday May 6, 2012

[Unforgiven4now]

Bib 4849, Havn't ran it since '09. Cannot wait for the race, your mine train.

[shark]

Shark is in as is the little shark.  See if I can beat him home this year - probably not but worth a try.  Unlikely I can beat the train but will give it my best shot.

s

[TimboTheSlow]

Yep...IN!!
Hoping for a PB...with a landslide my only chance beat the train
Good to see a race singlet on offer this year.
Great run, looking forward to it!

[GTR]

It's great to see the interest in the Great Train Race is as strong as ever - we have now taken over 1000 entries in 72 hours.

Please ensure you tell any frends who might be interested in running to do so now as we expect our entries to be fully subscibed very soon

[carlgorka]

Yep, in bib 5211, and I told my boss about it and he's running...better make sure I don't finish ahead of him

[Jason M]

Consistently in my favourites list of races. Bib 3064.

[Dusted68]

CRIKEY!!! Bib numbers already upwards of 5200? Glad I checked back on this thread tonight. Really looking fwd to the run... More hill sessions beckon prior to this time around!

Ahhh how I love the smell of burning coal & steam!  

Edited by Dusted68, 18 February 2012 - 11:03 PM.

[walker1st]

do not get too exited about the numbers
my wife entered yesterday and got 1200+

I reckon the numbers are given by categories gender, the wave start allocation according the time given as a 10km performance etc

for sure this is not continuous numbering from 1 to 5000+, it is capped to around 3000 anyway

[GTR]

Yes walker1st your right

Females start at 1000, Males at 3000

Each seeded group has a set number of allocated runners/bibs

1st seeded group 250
2nd seeded group 500
3rd seeded group 1200
4th seeded group 1250

[MrsH]

 GTR07, on 21 February 2012 - 06:48 PM, said:

Each seeded group has a set number of allocated runners/bibs

1st seeded group 250
2nd seeded group 500
3rd seeded group 1200
4th seeded group 1250

Is that based on 10km time? My 10km time wass on the FLAT!! Eek.

[mint]

Well, I finally decided to sign up last night but entries have been 'temporarily' closed since then due to technical issues.

Making a decision and then being told to wait is probably a good lesson in patience...

[BravoOne]

Bib #5628

I have a tendancy to leave registration until the last minute and then miss out.
NOT this time!
Ok, did miss out on some spectator tickets though.

[fluidmoves]

I am in for my second crack at beating the old girl looking forward to it knowing i missed breaking 60 mins by 5 seconds last year is something i want to fix. Although i am wondering theres seems to be much less chatter about the race this year compared to last year any thoughts on why that is.

[Harryo]

Fluidmoves

There is lot's of talk in the local running group - just not so much on CR.  Puffing Billy is a great run and will be a success again this year.  I would also love to crack 60m this year - have done it in the past several times but unlikely this year.  Will do my best on the day.

I expect it will fill up in the next couple of weeks then we'll get the usual people whingeing that they couldn't get a ticket.  I enter early, it gives me incentive to start.

Good luck

harry

[walker1st]

 fluidmoves, on 13 March 2012 - 09:33 PM, said:

I am in for my second crack at beating the old girl looking forward to it knowing i missed breaking 60 mins by 5 seconds last year is something i want to fix. Although i am wondering theres seems to be much less chatter about the race this year compared to last year any thoughts on why that is.

perhaps CR is taken by SYD-BRI gangs

[Snuffy]

Welp, I'm signed up for my first crack at this.... also happens to be my first proper running event since I picked up this nasty habit.  

Looking forward to it  

Edited by Snuffy, 16 March 2012 - 07:49 AM.

[toolittletoolate]

 Snuffy, on 16 March 2012 - 07:48 AM, said:

Welp, I'm signed up for my first crack at this.... also happens to be my first proper running event since I picked up this nasty habit.  

Looking forward to it  

Hi Snuffy, I did this last year as my first ever proper running event too, had a ball and am back this year for more of the same.  Good luck and make sure you get some hill practice in before the race!!

[walker1st]

 toolittletoolate, on 16 March 2012 - 08:38 AM, said:

Hi Snuffy, I did this last year as my first ever proper running event too, had a ball and am back this year for more of the same.

how you can get the same repeatedly ? first ever for second time ?

in JPN plastic surgery does restore the virginity...

[Snuffy]

 toolittletoolate, on 16 March 2012 - 08:38 AM, said:

Hi Snuffy, I did this last year as my first ever proper running event too, had a ball and am back this year for more of the same. Good luck and make sure you get some hill practice in before the race!!

I'm hoping the fact that there's going to be thousands of other people out on the course is going to help me overcome the boredom that tends to strike me at around the 13km mark of my solo LSRs.....    

(I'm hoping that saying I get bored while running isn't sacrilege around here)

[walker1st]

 Snuffy, on 16 March 2012 - 12:37 PM, said:

(I'm hoping that saying I get bored while running isn't sacrilege around here)

why ? it is applauded on trail topics about track ultras

the correct formulation is :

get bored running in circles

[martin1000]

How's the training going everyone? (no pun intended).

Have been trying to ramp up the hill training through Lysterfield Lake park.  the long hill in the race was tough last year  (and even the gradual uphill to Emerald township was difficult late in the run) so hoping to get a lot more hills in before May.

Edited by martin1000, 19 March 2012 - 12:09 PM.