Melbourne City Race 2023 – Back To The Future

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED!

Summer is coming – and it’s bringing some sizzle to Melbourne’s city streets, at least for those of us who, map in hand, love to set out on a quest for the quirky, with a backdrop of colourful history.

The 4^th Melbourne City Race takes us back to where it all began, at Docklands. We have a brand new start location in the north of the map, which means everyone will tackle the multi-level mayhem of The District, as well as New Quay, Waterfront City, Marvel Stadium and Victoria Harbour. Peter Dalwood has been out and about updating the map; as expected, there have been quite a few changes since 2019.

Course planners Peter and Ilze Yeates are veterans of several Venice City Races, so they know what makes a great urban event with a waterfront theme. While they haven’t been able to rustle up any gondolas (yet), they have been busy scouting out some quirky control locations – although “man made object” seems an inadequate description for a patchwork cow upended in a tree, or an elephant’s trunk emerging out of concrete!

This year’s MCR takes place on Sunday November 19. As in previous editions, you can choose any one of five line courses ranging from 3 to 10 km, with multiple changes in direction, and some route choices that might be vertical. Sportident controls will be in Air mode for rapid racing.

We strongly recommend using public transport – which is very handy to the arena – as parking is limited. You should to enter online on Eventor, with entries opening in late October. As always, we have some fantastic prizes for the winners and placegetters, and a random prize draw for everyone who pre-enters.

There is no Saturday warmup race this year, but we’ve got something much better – look out for the DROC Summer Shorts! A brand new series of four short distance races in parks and campuses on Sunday mornings, the Summer Shorts are the perfect way to get prepped; not only for the City Race, but for the Primary Schools Champs, and the Victorian Sprint Champs and Knockout Sprint on November 26. There will be a different Summer Short each week from October 22 to November 12. Venues are still being finalized, but expect a great selection of full colour maps, action-packed fun courses, and a big social atmosphere. The three courses at each Short will cater for all levels, from juniors and newcomers, to top sprinters, and everyone in between.

Questions? email enquiries@drocorienteering.com.au