Paluma Ultra
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Paluma Ultra
The Paluma Ultra is a 52 km ultramarathon trail run through the World Heritage listed Wet Tropics of Paluma Range National Park. The course starts at Gumburu Environmental Education Centre in Paluma and finishes at Paluma Village Green. The route uses almost no bitumen (about 492 metres) and otherwise follows single trail, dirt roads and old logging trails through rainforest, waterfalls, creek crossings, dry eucalypt forest and open cattle country. The organisers acknowledge the Nywaigi people as the Traditional Owners of the land.
Course and event details
The course is described in eight sections that include rainforest single trail, technical creek crossings, old tin mining trails with the DCK Shelter, a climb to Mt Spec, a 4WD Benham’s Track section, and a final loop through Paluma Village. There are two aid stations at approximately the 20 km and 38 km marks; these are also the designated bag drop locations and are stocked with first aid, water and electrolytes, fruit, lollies, chocolate, small soft drinks and chips. Runners must be at least 18 years old on race day.
Entry fees are listed as $145 general and $165 late. Included with entry are a race number with timing chip, event timing, necksock, aid stations, drop bag service, medical support, post-race refreshments and BBQ, awards for the top three male and female finishers, finisher certificate and professional event photography. Optional shared accommodation and meal packages are available at stated prices. Mandatory equipment includes hydration, adequate food, two compression bandages, an emergency blanket, a whistle, a headlight, a charged mobile phone with offline GPX, paper maps, and a good quality rain jacket for adverse weather. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.