The Katherine Multisport Club (KMSC) annual Ultra adventure event was held on August 2, attracting intrepid athletes from across the Northern Territory. The race was held at the stunning Nitmuluk National Park, typically comprising of swim and canoe legs in the Katherine Gorge, but sadly this year the swim was cancelled due to a croc sighting.
Athletes can compete solo or as part of a team, making for an exciting event filled with individual brilliance or impressive teamwork. Several athletes were happy to share their 2026 experiences, including Adam Ford who has completed 5 KMSC Ultras, 2 solo and 3 in a team.
“This year I did the two bike legs. I was a bit disappointed there were no water legs, as the swim is so iconic. I really love the mountain bike course! But not so keen on the road bike leg.”
“The race has the best vibes all day around the transition, it is a great race community. I loved the achievement of completing the race as a solo entry it is such a long gruelling day especially finishing with the 4 x 4 road run in the heat of the day.
“However, competing as a team is also great, being social, fun and supportive. Camping at the gorge really adds to the anticipation the day before and the sharing of war stories the night after. I am looking forward to next year already!”
One race never seems to be enough, with most participants earmarking the Katherine Multisport Club Ultra as a permanent fixture.
“I think I have done 4 Ultras, with the first being in a team with Barb,” Chris Galati, President of Darwin Triathlon Club excitedly explained.
“Since then, 3 as a Solo has seen me well. Every year there is a new challenge, cramps, crashes, and this year caution (seeing me have my fastest mountain bike ride, slow is smooth, smooth is fast).”
When asked what his favourite part of the event was, there was a clear winner – the swim.
“My favourite is always the swim followed by mountain bike. Don’t ask me why, I just love them. But my strength is the runs; I get to talk to lots of people and feel the love as I go. This year there seemed to be lots of first timers so those short conversations on the trail were interesting and fun and helped my and their confidence.”
This year, I managed to stay upright (well except for the Lisa M turn point where I came in a little fast and high sided it for a bit and then did a drop off on the really steep, do not ride trail, rather than the one I should have gone.) I also spent 20 mins riding with Emily Hinds who interviewed me like she was preparing my eulogy. She is fast and cruel!” he chuckled.
It’s not just the racing that is a drawcard to many in the area, it’s the ability to connect with others, enjoy the unique scenery and terrain – with many camping beneath the stars.
“Camping is a big draw card to this event.”
“Barb and I get there early and this year we found a lovely shady spot, just out of the main crowd, but close enough to be part of the fun. Over the days on site, I think every person in the Ultra and quite a few who were not, stopped to have a chat. The atmosphere is always a mix of family calm and that pre and post-race vibe.
Partner in crime, Barb Ramlah reflected on the race, noting this year had an additional layer of difficulty in comparison to previous years – finding she really had to dig in.
“This year felt hard, so much harder to Cairns and any other race I have ever done. A few things did not go my way, and I had to do lot of talking to myself to get there,” she said.
Although “terrible on the mountain bike” Barb expressed how she “loved the challenge and was so elated on the sharp left turn.”
“Truth is, I had tears in my eyes – tears of happiness that I was able to finish.”
Racing aside, the weekend means even more to the community. A moment to pause in time, enjoy the company, the challenge and being surrounded by others who love the sport.
“All the business of today’s world stops for few days, people talk, laugh, race, kids ride bikes and play the most unusual games, like ultra challenge. Everyone is welcome and included. And all the helpers and volunteers, what an amazing crew, not expecting anything in return.”
For Tomek Wolny, this was his second time competing at Ultra but like many it’s the atmosphere that keeps him coming back for more, not to mention the overall challenge of the event.
“Chatting at camp and around the worlds coldest pool definitely is a highlight but seeing so many familiar faces smiling and laughing during the race also is the best takeaway.”
“I really enjoyed the scenes, serenity and speed of the Road Bike this year, it was crazy! While it was beautiful and fun, there was a lot of swearing on the MTB course,” he joked.
