Woodend ultra-marathon runner Kate MacMunn has completed the Great Southern Endurance Run as the fastest female in the 100 mile (162km) event.
The midwife and mother of three completed the Harrietville run in 36:19:06 and placed fourth overall in an international field last month.
“I wanted to see how far this body can go. Human endurance is fascinating,” she said.
“It’s absolutely stunning country up there, surely there is no better way to explore it.”
GSER is described as one of the most rugged and picturesque mountain trail runs in Australia.
Starting and finishing in the small mountain village of Harrietville, runners venture into the mountains, summiting peaks, and experience sections of the iconic Australian Alps Walking Track within the Victorian Alpine National Park.
Participants drink and eat on the run, fuelled at points along the course. They run through the night on walking tracks climbing 10,600 metres in elevation.
This ultra-marathon, while a profound test of physical endurance, was primarily a test of mental fortitude of which Kate is deeply proud. She finished the last 20km section with her brother Tom by her side.
Kate has been training for six months leading up to the event, completing 90-140kms per week. A team of fellow female runners have helped build motivation and morale. She said her family has also played a huge role through its support.
