The Ballarat Marathon: A new world class running festival is coming to Ballarat in April

Celebrating the city’s rich sporting and cultural history, and tapping into the post COVID running boom, Ballarat’s first ever marathon festival welcomes runners of all ages and abilities to take part in the five events from one mile to 42km.

Ballarat is poised to host an exhilarating new addition to its sporting calendar this autumn as the inaugural Ballarat Marathon takes centre stage on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th April. This two-day fitness event promises to showcase the city’s rich heritage and vibrant culture through a series of premier running events catering to participants of all ages and abilities.

The festivities kick off on Saturday afternoon with the Power FM Mile and the Brooks 5km run, winding through the historic streets of Ballarat’s CBD. Then, on Sunday morning, adrenaline-seekers will take to the pavements for the 10km run, half marathon, and full marathon, immersing themselves in the scenic beauty of Victoria Park, the Arch of Victory, and Lake Wendouree. All routes commence and culminate at the iconic Ballarat Town Hall, adding a touch of grandeur to the event.

Ballarat Marathon 2024

• Saturday 27th April 2024
  • Start Time: From 2.30pm
  • Start and Finish Line: Ballarat Town Hall
  • Distances: Power FM 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)

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.

 

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Crafted to deliver a top-tier running experience, each course bears the hallmark of expertise, having been co-designed by local legend and champion long-distance runner, Steve Moneghetti, in collaboration with esteemed road running course designer Dave Cundy, renowned for his work on the Sydney Olympics marathon route.

Expressing his excitement, Moneghetti remarked, 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.”

The brainchild behind this monumental event, Adam McNicol, shared his enthusiasm, stating, “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.”

Support from the City of Ballarat and presenting partner, Federation University Australia, has been pivotal in realising this vision, aligning seamlessly with the local council’s Health and Wellbeing Plan, aimed at promoting physical activity within the community.

In a gesture of solidarity with the local populace, organisers have also forged a partnership with the Ballarat Health Services Foundation, the event’s official charity. Participants who raise $500 or more for the Foundation via the Grassrootz platform will have their entry fees refunded, further underscoring the event’s commitment to giving back to the community.

Beyond the running programme, visitors are encouraged to explore the best that Ballarat has to offer, from its vibrant cafes and delectable restaurants to its cosy accommodations and picturesque trails, ensuring a memorable weekend for all.

Registrations for the Ballarat Marathon are now open via ballaratmarathon.com.au.

Words by Staff Writer