Flex your running muscles

LACE up your runners and start stretching, because Geelong’s first ever full-scale running marathon is locked in for 2026!

The Geelong Running Festival will cement our city’s reputation for hosting world-class sporting events and will transform our streets into a runner’s paradise on September 20, 2026.

Bringing a marathon to Geelong has been something I’ve been passionate about and actively pursuing for many years, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see it come to life.

After seven years of planning, this event is finally coming to fruition, and I can’t wait to see our community coming together to either physically challenge themselves, or cheer on their family, friends, neighbours and colleagues as they cross the finish line.

Geelong’s very own elite marathoner Lee Troop has been instrumental in making this event a reality. As ambassador of the festival, his extensive experience and impressive achievements will help guide, motivate, and inspire participants of all abilities.

Registrations opened last week to coincide with the one-year countdown of the inaugural event, giving runners plenty of time to start training and hit the ground running.

We also unveiled the course map for the marathon, which was carefully designed to showcase Geelong’s stunning natural landscapes, vibrant waterfront, beautiful parks, and iconic landmarks.

Runners will pass by major sporting precincts like GMHBA Stadium and the Geelong Arena, reflecting our city’s rich sporting heritage.

Key highlights along the route include the Eastern Beach Promenade, Geelong City Hall, Steampacket Gardens, and the Carousel. This marathon will offer a truly memorable running experience with breathtaking city views.

The City of Greater Geelong is proud to support this festival, reinforcing our region’s status as a premier destination for major sporting events and community celebrations.

Earlier this year we saw hundreds of athletes descend on Geelong to participate in the IRONMAN 70.3 challenge.

This world-class event delivered significant economic benefit to Geelong, and we anticipate another boost to our local economy next year with the introduction of the Geelong Running Festival.

The running community loves travelling to all corners of the world for the thrill and challenge of a new course and marathon destination.

So, I’m sure our tourism providers and hospitality venues will eagerly anticipate this exciting new event.

If you want to start training early and need a nudge to get active, RUN4GEELONG is fast approaching, and offers the perfect supportive environment to fire the starting gun on your training.

This is a great opportunity to flex your running muscles and get on track with 10km, 5km and 3km options for adults, and a 1km kids’ course.

We look forward to seeing thousands flock to the streets, either challenging themselves on the course or cheering on from the sidelines for this year’s event on Sunday 9 November 2025.

Importantly, all runners get to decide where their registration fees will go in support of the Barwon Health Foundation.

Whether it’s the Andrew Love Cancer Centre, or it’s supporting Mental Health, Women’s & Children’s Health, or other Barwon Health services, your registration will make a positive impact right here in Geelong.

It’s not too late to take the starting line for this fantastic event. Registrations close 30 October. Jog on over to sign up soon though – last year’s event sold out!

As always, I am happy to speak to anyone on Council-related matters – phone 0455 532 006 or email [email protected]

Cr Eddy Kontelj

Hamlyn Heights Ward, City of Greater Geelong