Join the iconic Ballarat Marathon and Running Festival, a premier event celebrating health, heritage, and community spirit in Australia's historic gold rush city. Register now to experience scenic courses, generous prizes, and a vibrant atmosphere!
Where do the Ballarat Marathon races start and finish?
The main event hub is outside the Ballarat Town Hall (225 Sturt St, Ballarat Central). Most races start and finish right out the front of the Town Hall. The 10km starts from the corner of Sturt & Raglan Streets (a short walk from the Town Hall) and finishes at the Town Hall.
Are the Ballarat Marathon courses certified by AIMS and World Athletics?
Yes — the courses are certified to AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races) and World Athletics standards. That certification means results can be used for qualifying purposes (e.g. a Boston Marathon qualifying time, where applicable).
What are the elevation profiles for each Ballarat Marathon distance?
The courses are designed to be flat and fast. Elevation gain: Marathon 98m (two laps of the 21.1km course), Half Marathon 49m, 10km 9m, 5km 16m (two laps of a 2.5km course), Mile 14m.
What are the cut-off times for the Marathon and Half Marathon?
The cut-off time for both the Running Warehouse Ballarat Marathon and the Federation University Half Marathon is 6 hours. Cut-offs are based on chip time (not gun time) to help roads reopen in line with event permits.
Will there be pacers at Ballarat Marathon 2026?
Yes. Pacers are planned for the 2026 Running Warehouse Marathon, Federation University Half Marathon, City of Ballarat 10km, and The Courier 5km. More pacer details are expected closer to race weekend.
How do I qualify as an elite athlete?
A strict qualifying time applies for elite categories. For Marathon & Half Marathon: Men’s Marathon sub-2:30, Men’s Half Marathon sub-1:06, Women’s Marathon sub-2:48, Women’s Half Marathon sub-1:15. When registering for the longer distances, you’ll need to submit a qualifying time to be considered for the elite field. (For Mile & 5km, check the relevant event pages.)
Where and when do I collect my bib?
Bib collection location and times are currently TBC. All bibs must be collected (no posting). Collection closes 30 minutes prior to your scheduled event. If you misplace your bib before the event, a $20 replacement fee applies.
Is Ballarat Marathon a World Athletics ranking event?
Yes. The event is sanctioned by World Athletics, and results can be added to your World Athletics ranking profile (where applicable).
What’s included in my Ballarat Marathon entry fee?
Inclusions typically include a race bib with timing chip, drink stations and a recovery zone (with Fixx Nutrition products), a finishers’ medal, insurance, first aid and amenities, and the chance to run on a fully closed, traffic-managed course certified to AIMS and measured to World Athletics standards. Marathon & Half Marathon entrants also receive Ballarat Marathon-branded high-performance socks from Steigen (other distances can purchase socks during registration or afterwards via the Race Roster store).
