Dandenongs Trail Runners hosts a practice run along the course of the Rollercoaster Run in the lead up to the event.
Check back in 2025 for details.
This ‘Rollercoaster Recce’ is effectively a self-supported run and you should use it as an opportunity to take all mandatory gear. Treat it like race day, but be aware the on-course support available on race day will not be there for the recce.
Here’s what you need to know:
There are toilets at Kalorama oval. The Stables toilets at 7km and 15km might be open on race day.
There is no water on the course for the Rollercoaster Recce; you must be self sufficient. The slower groups can be on course for 4 hours so bring enough to last.
On race day, there will be water at the aid station at Doongalla picnic ground which you can access at 7km and 15km points on each loop.
There will be no aid stations or on-course support for the recce run. That’s why we have written these instructions for you.
On race day, there will be an aid station at Doongalla.
Wear trail shoes with good grip. Sections of the course can be muddy and there are steep up and down hills.
Wear gaiters to keep small stones and other debris out of your shoes recommended. Here’s an example of trail gaiters.
The slower groups can be on course for 4 hours, so bring enough food to last at least that long.
There are a number of long, steep climbs and descents where poles would be advantageous, if they are your thing.
The Rollercoaster course has changed from previous years. There’s no Trig Track single trail near Kalorama. Instead you go along Fireline Track and then up Observatory Track to Kyeema Track, which is long and steep.
As on race day, you might need to navigate yourself if the run leaders are required to deal with any issues. The Capra App on your phone will be mandatory on race day.
Put the course on your GPS watch (if you can).
The Rollercoaster website lists the absolute minimum gear you must bring with you.
The recce runs are effectively self supported so you should consider bringing:
If you need to abandon the run early and get someone to pick you up, the best places are:
If you need an ambulance, one will be called and you will be liable for any costs. Provide an emergency contact who we can contact if necessary.
Dandenongs Trail Runners acknowledges the Wurundjeri people as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land on which we run. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present.
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