2026 Ballarat Marathon

The 2026 Ballarat Marathon takes place on 25–26 April 2026 in Ballarat, Victoria, Australia. This World Athletics Certified road running festival is held across the historic streetscapes of Ballarat Central, including Lydiard Street, Lake Wendouree, the Arch of Victory, and Victoria Park. Participants can expect crisp autumn weather, with typical temperatures in Ballarat during late April ranging from cool mornings to mild, pleasant days. The event features a variety of race categories on flat, fast courses, offering a professional atmosphere for both elite athletes and recreational runners.

What race categories and distances are available?

• →Marathon (42.195km)
• →Half Marathon (21.1km)
• →Wheelchair Half Marathon (21.1km)
• →10KM
• →5KM

What is the event schedule and start times?

Saturday, 25 April 2026

• →5KM Mass Start: 2:00 PM
• →5KM Women's Elite: 3:15 PM
• →5KM Men's Elite: 3:45 PM

Sunday, 26 April 2026

• →Federation University Wheelchair Half Marathon: 7:55 AM
• →Federation University Half Marathon: 8:00 AM
• →Marathon: 8:00 AM
• →10KM: 11:30 AM

What are the course details and routes?

• →Marathon: Two laps of a 21.1km Steve Moneghetti-designed course featuring autumn colours and historic buildings. View the route on Strava ↗.
• →Half Marathon & Wheelchair Half: A flat and fast loop through Victoria Park, the Arch of Victory, and Lake Wendouree, finishing on Lydiard and Sturt Streets. View the route on Strava ↗.
• →10KM: An autumnal city route suitable for various fitness levels. View the route on Strava ↗.
• →5KM: Two laps of a 2.5km course through gold rush-era streetscapes. View the route on Strava ↗.

Are there any age restrictions for the races?

• →Marathon: 18 years or older on race day.
• →Half Marathon & Wheelchair Half: 16 years or older on race day.
• →10KM: 13 years or older on race day.
• →5KM: No age restriction; however, runners aged 12 and under must be accompanied by a registered adult.

What are the cut-off times for each distance?

• →Marathon: 6 hours
• →Half Marathon & Wheelchair Half: 6 hours
• →10KM: 2 hours 30 minutes

What are the elite qualifying times for the 10KM?

• →Men: Sub 30:00
• →Women: Sub 35:00

Where and when can bibs be collected?

Bib collection is located at Civic Hall, 300/304 Mair St, Ballarat Central. Please note that all bibs must be collected in person; they will not be posted.

• →Friday, 24 April: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• →Saturday, 25 April: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Note: 5KM bib collection closes at 1:30 PM)
• →Sunday, 26 April: 6:00 AM – 7:30 AM (Marathon/Half); 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM (10KM)

Is there a bag drop facility available?

• →Yes, bag drop is located at The Mining Exchange, 16 Lydiard St North, Ballarat Central.