Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko by UTMB will celebrate its fifth return to Jindabyne this year in November, with the event’s growing popularity reflected in its sell-out nearly four months before race day.

Based in Bullocks Flat for its first year and since then moving to Jindabyne as the central hub for the event village, the Ultra-Trail has long been a much anticipated event for marathon lovers. Locals also look forward to the event as it brings visitors from across the country in a time that the township is particularly quiet and needs the economic boost.

Event organisers said the Snowy Mountains provide the perfect setting for a premier trail running event, showcasing the best of Australia’s alpine playground and its snow gum forests, crystal clear mountain streams, alpine meadows and granite outcrops.

“As the gateway to the Kosciuszko National Park, Jindabyne has everything needed to host an event like this – from excellent accommodation and restaurant options to its welcoming community to its idyllic surrounds,” organisers said.

This year’s event features only minor course changes, providing valuable consistency for runners, volunteers, and supporters alike and this year organisers have made a significant effort to enhance the experience for both athletes and spectators.

Improvements include increased shuttle bus services to Charlotte Pass, a greater number of indoor checkpoints to provide better protection from the weather, and enhanced services and atmosphere at the finish line in Thredbo.

Organisers said they have also introduced a new Medal Perks Program as a way of showcasing the local businesses to those taking part in the event.

“Athletes can show their event registration (pre-race) or their medal (post-race) to participating businesses to access discounts and special deals,” organisers said.

“It is a great way to encourage athletes to explore more of what the local area has to offer. We have had similar programs at some of our other events, and they have proved very popular with both athletes and businesses.

“The program highlights the wide variety of goods and services available in Jindabyne and surrounding areas, and aims to expand the positive financial impact of the event to a wider variety of businesses.”

For athletes and their support crews, the program provides an opportunity to discover everything Jindabyne has to offer beyond the race itself.

“Our goal is for visitors to not only enjoy the town during race week, but also be inspired to return and experience the region more thoroughly when they are not focused on running up to 100 miles,” organisers said.

“We also hope the program helps foster meaningful connections between the local community and visiting runners. By sharing stories, motivations, and experiences, we aim to create opportunities for the local community to further engage with the event, gain a deeper appreciation for the sport, and perhaps even be inspired to take up trail running themselves.”

To be able to host an event of this scale organisers need the support of local volunteers and have started calling upon the Jindabyne and surrounding communities for help over the four-day event.

“We are always looking for more volunteers to join the Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko team. With four race distances ranging from 30km to 100 miles and events taking place across four days, it is a large-scale event that is enhanced by the support of our dedicated volunteers,” organisers said.

“We are fortunate to work with a number of incredible local clubs and community groups who return year after year to volunteer their time. Their contribution is invaluable and plays a significant role in creating a positive experience for our athletes. We would love to see even more local groups get involved, and we provide donations to eligible clubs and organisations in recognition of their support.”

There is a wide variety of volunteer roles available, including athlete check-in at the Jindabyne Community Hall, welcoming finishers at the finish line in Thredbo, and assisting runners at one of the many checkpoints located throughout the course.

Whether you can spare a few hours or an entire day, volunteering is a fantastic way to be part of this unique event and support athletes as they take on an extraordinary challenge.

“We would like to again thank the local community for being such an important part of Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko,” organisers said.

“We have always been made to feel incredibly welcome, and we are grateful for everyone’s support. Our aim is to showcase the area and all it has to offer, beyond the amazing trails that the athletes get to enjoy during race week.”

Volunteers can sign up directly through the website at www.kosciuszko.utmb.world/get-involved/become-a-volunteer, or to get more information you can email volunteer coordinator Shenelle at ultratrailkosciuszko-volunteers@team.utmb.world.