Our biggest rival’s never out of puff

PUFFING Billy may be more than 100 years old but it’s still quick enough to outpace this trio in the Great Train Race.

Puffing Billy train driver Steve Strangward with oldest competitor Dale Sinclair, 63, and youngest competitors Ethan Buchanan, left, and Alex Hayes, both 13. Picture: Mark Stewart

PUFFING Billy may be more than 100 years old but it’s still quick enough to outpace this trio.

The 36th annual Great Train Race is gathering steam with registrations open ahead of the April 30 event starting in Belgrave.

More than 2700 participants took part last year and with 1700 runners already signed up, organisers are hoping for a bumper field of about 3200 this year.

Reigning women’s champion Tarli Bird is chasing her third successive victory, a feat never achieved in the history of the race. Ms Bird said she was aware of the record, but just focusing on trying to beat the famous train as well as her times from previous years.

“I really enjoy trying to beat the train at each of the four crossings and the adrenaline this brings when you can hear the train in the distance,” she said.

“It’s a challenging run and provides a great sense of accomplishment when you finish.”

The 13.5km course provides a tough test for competitors, with three hill climbs in the first 10km before a downhill run to the finish line.

Entries close on April 28. For more information visit greattrainrace.com.au