Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025 (Easter Saturday)
Location: The Station, Newcastle, NSW, Australia

Welcome to the Newcastle Running Festival, a celebration of endurance, community spirit, and stunning coastal scenery. Taking place on Easter Saturday, this event is a perfect blend of competitive running and holiday getaway, offering participants a chance to enjoy one of Australia’s most picturesque running courses. Whether you're chasing a personal best on the marathon's flat, fast course or enjoying the supportive atmosphere of the half marathon, the Newcastle Running Festival promises a memorable experience.

Event Lineup

Marathon (42.2km)

  • Start Time: 6:00 AM
  • Cut-off: 6 hours (12:00 PM)
  • Minimum Age: 18 years
  • Entry Fee:
    • First Release: $140 (July 28–Sept 1, 2024)
    • Standard Entry: $160 (Sept 2, 2024–April 1, 2025)
    • Late Entry: $180 (April 2–April 19, 2025)

Course Description:
The marathon course consists of 4 loops, each 10.55km, along Newcastle’s iconic waterfront. The route features stunning views of Newcastle Harbour, Honeysuckle Foreshore, Macquarie Pier (Break-wall), and Nobbys and Newcastle Beach Foreshore. The AIMS-accredited course is flat, fast, and ideal for setting personal bests.

  • Aid Stations: Every 2-3km, with water, electrolyte drinks, and special needs provisions at the start of each loop.
  • Toilets: Located at the start/finish area and at key points along the course (2.3km, 5.5km, 8.5km).
  • Prize Money:
    • 1st Place: $1,000
    • 2nd Place: $500
    • 3rd Place: $250

Half Marathon (21.1km)

  • Start Time: 9:00 AM
  • Cut-off: 3 hours (12:00 PM)
  • Minimum Age: 16 years
  • Entry Fee:
    • First Release: $115 (July 28–Sept 1, 2024)
    • Standard Entry: $125 (Sept 2, 2024–April 1, 2025)
    • Late Entry: $155 (April 2–April 19, 2025)

Course Description:
The half marathon mirrors the marathon’s scenic route but involves 2 loops, each 10.55km. This flat, AIMS-accredited course provides an excellent opportunity for first-time half marathoners and seasoned runners aiming for fast times.

  • Aid Stations: Located at regular intervals throughout the course.
  • Toilets: Strategically placed along the course and at the start/finish area.

What’s Included in Your Entry

  • Finishers Medal: Distributed in the recovery area upon completion.
  • Souvenir Race Singlet/T-shirt: Available at a discounted rate of $20 for participants registered by March 30, 2025.
  • Electronic Timing: Live results via reusable timing chips (must be returned post-race).
  • Scenic Course: Experience Newcastle’s most picturesque running routes, with traffic-free main roads and stunning coastal views.
  • On-Course Support: Regularly spaced drink stations, medical services, and enthusiastic volunteers from local clubs.

Additional Event Features

  • Race Kit Collection:
    • Friday, April 18, 2025: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
    • Saturday, April 19, 2025: 5:00 AM until 30 minutes before race start
    • Location: The Station (old Railway Station), Wharf Rd, Newcastle.
  • Bag Drop: A secure area at the Registration Tent will be available on race day.
  • Transportation & Parking:
    • Light Rail: Alight at Market St, just 100m from the start area.
    • Parking: Paid parking is available at Argyle St and Bolton St Car Parks (1.5km from the site) and Honeysuckle area off Wright Lane (400m from the site). Do not park on the course.
  • Community Impact: Proceeds from the event will support local Surf Life Saving Clubs, Newcastle Rowing Club, and other social and sporting clubs.

Why Run Newcastle?

  • Easter Getaway: Combine the thrill of race day with a relaxing long weekend in Newcastle.
  • Flat, Fast Course: Ideal for PB chasers and first-time marathoners.
  • Stunning Scenery: Take in the breathtaking views of Newcastle’s coastline, harbour, and iconic landmarks.
  • Community Spirit: Enjoy on-course entertainment, vibrant crowds, and the support of passionate local volunteers.

Key Dates

  • Entries Open: July 28, 2024
  • First Release Ends: September 1, 2024
  • Named Bibs Deadline: March 30, 2025
  • Race Day: April 19, 2025

Make 2025 the year you conquer the Newcastle Marathon or Half Marathon!
Register early to secure your spot, and join us for an Easter weekend filled with fitness, fun, and community spirit.