Victoria is set to welcome a new world class running festival this autumn as the inaugural Ballarat Marathon transforms one of the state’s largest regional cities on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 April.
Designed to celebrate the city’s rich sporting and cultural history, the two-day running festival will welcome runners of all ages and experience levels to take part in five events.
On Saturday afternoon, punters will take part in the one mile and 5km distances, journeying through Ballarat’s historic CBD. The 10km run, half marathon and full marathon will take place on Sunday morning, with runners soaking up the sights of Victoria Park, the Arch of Victory and Lake Wendouree. All events will start and finish at the Ballarat Town Hall.
Ensuring a premium running experience, each course was co-designed by Ballarat local and champion long distance runner, Steve Moneghetti, and long-time road running course designer, Dave Cundy, who oversaw the design of the Sydney Olympics marathon.
“As a proud local, being part of the very first Ballarat Marathon as the race director is an incredible honour. Ballarat has such a rich heritage of distance running and I am delighted to see a world-class sporting event find a home in our city. I can’t wait to see the streets flooded with participants, supporters and visitors, soaking up all our beautiful city has to offer,” says Moneghetti.
The Ballarat Marathon is the brainchild of local Adam McNicol. The idea was spurred from the event director’s newfound passion for running during the pandemic, inspiring him to create an iconic festival in his beloved hometown.
“I am absolutely thrilled for Ballarat to host its first ever marathon this autumn. With its cool weather, picturesque streets, and warm-hearted residents, our city is the perfect setting for a premium running event. I look forward to welcoming participants and festivalgoers from the local community and across the country, and cementing Ballarat as a regional leader in hosting sporting events,” said McNicol.
Support from the City of Ballarat and presenting partner, Federation University Australia, has been instrumental in the event’s conception. Set to become a staple in the Australian sporting calendar, the festival also aligns with the local council’s Health and Wellbeing Plan, aiming to help increase physical activity in the region.
A further commitment to supporting the local community, organisers are proud to partner with the Ballarat Health Services Foundation as the event’s official charity. Participants who raise $500 or more for the Foundation via the Grassrootz platform will have their entry fee refunded.
Alongside the running program, visitors are encouraged to experience the best of Ballarat’s vibrant cafes, delicious restaurants, cosy accommodation and beautiful trails across the weekend.
Registrations for the Ballarat Marathon are now open via ballaratmarathon.com.au
EVENT DETAILS
Saturday 27th April 2024
- Start time: from 2.30pm
- Start and finish line: Ballarat Town Hall
- Distances: One mile (1.6km) + Brooks 5km
Sunday 28th April 2024
- Start time: from 8am
- Start and finish line: Ballarat Town Hall
- Distances: 10km, Federation University Marathon (42km) + City of Ballarat Half Marathon (21km)
Images: Supplied.
