Discovering WA’s Munda Biddi Trail: Jason's adventure including Jack Thompson's world record
By Mead Physio Group on December 4th 2023
An epic adventure awaits on the Munda Biddi, an off-road cycling trail stretching just over 1000km from Mundaring to Albany in the South-West of Western Australia. The trail, unlike any other, traverses WA's scenic Darling Range and southern forests through eucalypt bushland, granite outcrops, and unique coastal landscapes.
In late November 2023, Jason completed the Munda Biddi adventure for the second time, joined by his friend and fellow keen cyclist, Martin. This time away provided a great opportunity to make the most of separation from modern distractions, a time to embrace nature, and nurture one's mental health.
Jason and Martin's time on the trail coincided with a successful world record attempt by Jack Thompson, originally from Claremont. He completed the 1,064km Munda Biddi trail in two days, 12 hours, and 15 minutes to break the current Fastest Known Time Record of two days, 17 hours, and 22 minutes held by fellow Perth rider Craig Wiggins from 2020.
Despite being an internationally acclaimed ultra-cyclist who holds multiple world records, Jack said the Munda Biddi ride was one of his toughest yet. Enduring extreme heat and strong winds, Jack cycled in awareness of mental health, highlighting the need for greater awareness, education, and destigmatising of mental health.
“My goal was always to use my sport to try and help other people, in particular, adolescents that are going through their own mental health battles just because I know how important the exercise was for me,” he said. (Perth Now)
Following his Munda Biddi record, Jack returned to Perth visiting schools along the trail, reaching out to approximately 5,000 primary and secondary students to spread awareness about mental health and the power of cycling.
Here’s some of Jason’s highlights from the Munda Biddi trail
Resting at one of the purpose-built huts on the Munda Biddi en route to Albany, carrying all food (dehydrated food and energy bars) and 4 litres of water each. You really can carry most things you need in life on your bike! It is a great way to simplify life and find satisfaction in the simple day-to-day tasks.
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Relaxing in cool waters to cool off and rehydrate after 10 hours of cycling each day with temperatures in the mid to high 30s. Enjoying a dip in the Nanga Brook stream where the water is still amazingly flowing strong. There are so many hidden gems on the Munda Biddi!
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My Frankland National Park water hole was another chance to refill our water bottles and enjoy a swim in order to lower our body temperature and get away from the March Flies - of which there were plenty! These spots are little oasis in the forest.
Enjoying a brekkie pie and good coffee at Walpole, and people to chat with, which is always a massive boost to your morale! Because towns are far apart and options for water and food are limited, it's beneficial to take advantage of the small grocery shops just off the track.
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Muscle injuries can happen on a bike if you push yourself too hard. Jason, forced to rest while in Denmark and treat the strain with a compression bandage and cold river pools along the way.
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Welcoming and meeting Jack Thomspon at the end of the Munda Biddi - The southern terminus at the Albany Town Square.
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Have you been considering taking part in a similar challenge yourself? If you would like some guidance on preparation, fitness, and strength so that you're ready to go, we would love to hear from you! You can call our team on 08 9293 1800, or click here to book online.
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