Mad Max Marathon 2026
The Mad Max Marathon Running Festival takes place on 26 July 2026, at the Broken Hill Racecourse in Broken Hill, New South Wales, Australia. Participants can expect a unique outback experience set within a desert landscape, characterized by a strong community atmosphere and a Mad Max theme. Typical weather for Broken Hill in late July includes cool to mild temperatures, though runners should be prepared for significant sun exposure and potential wind across the open desert terrain.
What distances are available for this event?
- →Marathon
- →Half Marathon
- →10 km (available as both a run and a walk category)
- →5 km
- →2 km Kids Dash (free entry)
- →Wheelbarrow Charity Relay (novelty team event)
What is the race schedule and start times?
- →Marathon: 9:00 am (Note: may start at 8:00 am if weather is hot)
- →Half Marathon: 9:30 am
- →10 km Runners: 9:45 am
- →10 km Walkers: 9:50 am
- →5 km: 10:00 am
- →2 km Kids Dash: 12:00 pm
Are there any time cut-offs for the races?
- →Marathon: 5h 30m total time with a halfway cut-off of 2h 45m
What are the course characteristics and terrain?
The course features a very flat profile, which is beneficial for steady pacing, but it is composed of dirt tracks and a racecourse loop rather than paved roads. This terrain, combined with open desert exposure, makes for "honest" running that may result in slower paces than standard road racing.
- →5 km: Primarily the Parkrun ↗ course with a slight extension.
- →10 km: Starts with the Parkrun ↗ loop, followed by ~1.5 km of dirt track along Racecourse Road, finishing with a 2 km lap inside the racecourse.
- →Half Marathon: Starts with the Parkrun ↗ loop, followed by ~7 km of dirt tracks along Racecourse Road and the Silver City Highway, finishing with a 2 km lap inside the racecourse.
- →Marathon: Consists of two laps of the Half Marathon course.
What awards are provided to participants?
- →All finishers receive a distinctive medal.
What support and amenities are available on the course?
There are four main drink stations located approximately at the start/5 km mark, 6.5 km, ~9 km, and the 12 km turnaround.
- →Water and cups are provided at stations.
- →Some lollies are available at aid stations.
- →Due to the dry desert conditions, the use of a hydration vest or bottle is highly recommended.
How much does registration cost?
Early bird pricing is as follows:
- →Marathon: A$85
- →Half Marathon: A$65
- →10 km: A$40
- →5 km: A$20
- →Kids 2 km: Free
Where can I find accommodation and camping options?
- →Camping is available through Broken Hill Events Centre ↗.
- →Local accommodation options can be found via Visit NSW ↗.