Be the first in the world to greet the new day as you race along the coast.
The First Light Marathon and Half Marathon takes place in Tairāwhiti Gisborne, Aotearoa New Zealand, which is known for being the first city in the world to see the sun each day.
Its spectacular coastline and the steep green hills provide a magical backdrop to this unique race. Runners will herald in the sunrise as they crest the many hills and race along the white sand beach.
The Travelling Fit Team have participated in both the Marathon and the Half Marathon.
Our experience is your peace of mind
Travelling Fit is delighted to offer you a 5 Day / 4 Night Package with the option to choose from 4 different excursions:
There will also be the option to join a pre and/or post marathon extension tour as follows:
PACKAGE FLYERS
Both the Marathon and Half-Marathon runners will begin on the boardwalk next to Midway Beach. The race starts just before sunrise, and participants will follow the boardwalk out of Tairāwhiti Gisborne until the first hills are reached. As runners crest the first hill, they’ll be rewarded with a view of the sun slowly rising out over the Pacific Ocean. You will be among the first people in the world to greet the new day as the sun illuminates the landscape around you.
Both marathon and half-marathon runners will face a series of short, steep hills once they are out of the city. The race is a mix of single-track trails, roads, and off-road surfaces. Half-marathon runners will loop through the hills back toward the city, while marathon runners head out to Wainui Beach for roughly a kilometer through the sand next to the sparkling waves. Then, marathon runners will head back into the hills to tackle even more challenging climbs until they once again reach Tairāwhiti Gisborne.
Both half-marathon and marathon runners will finish the race on the same boardwalk where the race began, running onto Midway Beach for some well-deserved rest and refreshments.
The route will be well-marked with many small flags, arrows, and kilometer signs. Water stations will be positioned along the route at approximately every 4 kilometers.
Some stations will also serve energy drinks, bananas, and energy gels. Personal supplies can be deposited at the start/finish area in a staffed bag drop area. There will be toilets and post-race refreshments in the start/finish area as well.
Your entry to the First Light Marathon is included in the cost of your package
Marathon runners must be at least 18 years old on race day.
The First Light Marathon is scheduled to start at 5:40am
The race officially ends at 13:40. This means that both marathon runners and half-marathon runners have a cut-off time of 8 hours.
For the MARATHON there is a 4 hours cut-off time half-way (at 21km)
Any runners left on the route after this cut-off time will be collected by car.
Runners will receive their goodie bags when arriving in Gisborne 23rd January.
The goodie bag will contain your start/bib number, timing chip, official race T-shirt, information on the race route, and schedule for your trip.
There are no pace setters for the First Light Marathon
Water stations will be positioned along the route at approximately every 4 kilometers.
Some stations will also serve energy drinks, bananas, and energy gels. Personal supplies can be deposited at the start/finish area in a staffed bag drop area.
There will be toilets and post-race refreshments in the start/finish area as well.
It is possible to deposit bags with personal items in the start/finish area for use before and after the race. Please mark your bag clearly with your name and bib number.
Although the luggage area is manned, depositing personal belongings in the area is entirely each runner’s responsibility and the First Light Marathon organisers are not responsible for loss or damage of personal belongings.
There is no Expo associated with the First Light Marathon.
However, after the Powhiri, on race day, and at the celebration dinner, a variety of exclusive First Light Marathon merchandise can be purchased.
All finishers receive a medal. A small, symbolic prize is given to the winners of both distances for men and women.
Please note that there is no prize money.
The average temperature range for Tairāwhiti, Gisborne, in February is 14 to 24 degrees Celsius (57 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit)
As the proud Travel Provider for the Great Ocean Road Running Festival, Travelling Fit is pleased to advise we have some great accommodation deals on offer located in the both the seaside paradise of Lorne and the amazing Apollo Bay.
Lorne is just a short walking distance to the Ultra Marathon and the Marathon Start Line (your bus transfer is included) and Apollo Bay is where the Ultra Marathon, Marathon and Brooks Half Marathon all finish.
The Great Ocean Road Running Festival is held in a beautiful and unique area of Victoria, Australia on the Southern Ocean.
Each year that this event has been conducted, it has attracted many athletes from around the world, all eager to participate in this challenging and pristine environment.
The Great Ocean Road is an icon in Australia and is renowned throughout the world for its beauty and panoramic views of the Southern Ocean. It has a colourful history surrounding its construction and ultimate destinations along the coastline.
Anyone travelling along this road by car would not be able to experience the absolute serenity and at times the wilderness experience that you as a runner can. As you run along this course, with no traffic at all, you can almost hear the waves calling your name. The only sound you will hear is the soft thud of footsteps from your fellow competitors.
All runners considering the Geelong Advertiser Ultra Marathon please understand that this is a challenge that you must be up for both physically and mentally. Please ensure that you adjust your training to suit this course, and can run the 60km within the event cut-off time (6.5 hours) prior to registering for this event.
We strongly recommend looking at the course elevation. An elevation map for the Geelong Advertiser Ultra Marathon can be found by clicking here.
Victoria’s iconic Great Ocean Road is home to one of the world’s most visually spectacular running events.
Starting in Lorne, a seaside town on Louttit Bay in Victoria, the Ultra-Marathon course winds its way along the Great Ocean Road to the finishing line in Apollo Bay.
The course itself is flat to undulating with an elevation gain of around 1081m and there are several long, upwards sections on the course, most notably from the 33km mark to the 38km mark, where the course rises from an elevation of approximately 50m to an elevation of approximately 300m.
The last 6km of the course is relatively flat.
The entry Fee to the Great Ocean Road Ultra Marathon is included in the cost of your package.
There are no qualifying times for the Great Ocean Road Ultra Marathon.
All participants MUST be 18 years or older on race day
The Great Ocean Road Ultra Marathon starts at 8:00am
There is a 6h:30m cut off for this event
The Ultra has two cut off point the reason for this is that we must reopen the Great Ocean Rd at no later than 2.30 and all runners must be off the road before we open.
At each Turnout segment you will receive a wrist band if you miss a cut off you can still continue to the finish.
The Great Ocean Road Ultra Marathon will be timed using chip technology
Australian Competitors
Race Packs are only posted to those who register prior to 11.59pm Tuesday 08 April and provide an Australian address on their registration. If for any reason your Race Pack does not arrive, a replacement pack can be collected from the Race Week Office. Please note, if you enter the Event between 12:00am on Wednesday 09 April and 11:59pm on Tuesday 15 April, you will have the option of paying for priority postage or collection from the event race offices (Lorne and Apollo Bay) during race office hours.
Registering from 12:00am Wednesday April 19 onwards, means you will be required to pick up/collect your Event race pack from the Event race office prior to the commencement of the Event.
International Competitors
All international competitors are required to collect their packs from the Race Week Office. Please ensure nomination of either Lorne or Apollo Bay Race Week Offices, upon registration
Lorne
Lorne Foreshore (North of the SLSC Carpark)
Mountjoy Parade
Lorne, Victoria
The Opening hours are:
Apollo Bay Surf Life Saving Club
Great Ocean Rd
Apollo Bay, Victoria, 3233
The Opening hours are:
You will not be able to collect your Race Pack on race morning as there will be no office at the start lines so please ensure that you have collected your pack before race morning!
You are welcome to have someone else collect your pack on your behalf if you are unable to attend the office. Please be aware they will need your Confirmation Email containing your unique QR code to do so.
There are no official Pace Setters in this event
There are 14 drink stations along the Ultra Marathon course.
Water will be provided on course as well as a Gatorade.
Please discard this rubbish at the bins provided at the drink stations.
Distance | Items Provided |
Start Line | Water |
2.5km | Water |
5km | Water |
10.7km | Water /Gatorade |
15.4km | Water /Gatorade |
21.8km | Water /Gatorade |
25km | Water /Gatorade |
31.1km | Water /Gatorade |
36 km | Water /Gatorade |
41km | Water /Gatorade |
41.3km | Water /Gatorade |
48.2km | Water /Gatorade |
53.2km | Water /Gatorade |
54.8km | Water /Gatorade |
58.5km | Water /Gatorade |
Finish Line | Water /Gatorade |
You may also choose to carry your own sports drinks/gels with you.
Marathon competitors will be required to collect a warm clothing bag in order to check in their warm clothing on race day.
On Race Day you can drop off your labelled warm clothing bag at designated points at the start lines in Lorne.
After the race, you must collect your bag from Moore Street next to the Apollo Bay Hotel, near the event finish line.
Make sure you have your bib on you to ensure that volunteers will be able to hand back the warm clothing bag corresponding to your bib number.
Storage areas for warm clothing bags will be manned by volunteers and marshals on race day and it is strongly recommended that you avoid placing valuables in clothing bags.
Note that the race organisers do not accept any responsibility for lost or stolen goods.
Getting to the start line in Lorne (depart from 5:45am):
Please note there are two departure points along Main St. Please make sure you are at the departure point for Marathon/Ultra Marathon runners. Exact locations will be published closer to the event.
If you are staying in Lorne the start line is a short walk form your hotel and shuttle buses will be available to bring you back to Lorne after the race (departing from approx. 11am onwards)
There will be a Festival Hub in Apollo Bay that will have official merchandise.
Opening hours are:
Friday, 16 May | 9:00am-6:00pm |
Saturday, 17 May | 8:00am-6:00pm |
Sunday, 18 May | 9:00am-2:30pm |
All finishers will receive a medal and all competitors will receive a gift that can be collected at the finish line at the end of your run!
Please remember to show your race bib to claim your gift!
The average high temperature in May for Apollo Bay is 16 degrees Celsius and an average low temperature of 10 degrees Celsius.
There is an average 0f 16 days rain in May so please ensure to pack appropriate wet weather running gear, just in case
44km Marathon23km Brooks Half Marathon
14km Paradise Run
6km Fun Run
1.5km Kids Gallop
12km Trail Run
6km Trail Run
5km or 10km Great Ocean Road Walk
As the proud Travel Provider for the Great Ocean Road Running Festival, Travelling Fit is pleased to advise we have some great accommodation deals on offer located in the both the seaside paradise of Lorne and the amazing Apollo Bay.
Lorne is just a short walking distance to the Ultra Marathon and the Marathon Start Line (your bus transfer is included) and Apollo Bay is where the Ultra Marathon, Marathon and Brooks Half Marathon all finish.
The Great Ocean Road Running Festival is held in a beautiful and unique area of Victoria, Australia on the Southern Ocean.
Each year that this event has been conducted, it has attracted many athletes from around the world, all eager to participate in this challenging and pristine environment.
The Great Ocean Road is an icon in Australia and is renowned throughout the world for its beauty and panoramic views of the Southern Ocean. It has a colourful history surrounding its construction and ultimate destinations along the coastline.
Anyone travelling along this road by car would not be able to experience the absolute serenity and at times the wilderness experience that you as a runner can. As you run along this course, with no traffic at all, you can almost hear the waves calling your name. The only sound you will hear is the soft thud of footsteps from your fellow competitors.
Victoria’s iconic Great Ocean Road is home to one of the world’s most visually spectacular running events.
Starting in Lorne, a seaside town on Louttit Bay in Victoria, the Marathon course winds its way along the Great Ocean Road to the finishing line in Apollo Bay.
The course itself is flat to undulating with an elevation gain of around 488m and there are several long, upwards sections on the course, most notably from the Cumberland River at the 5km mark to the top of Mount Defiance at around the 9km mark. The second long (ish) incline comes just after the 21km mark, taking you from the Kennett River to Cape Patton.
The last 10km of the course is relatively flat.
The entry Fee to the Great Ocean Road Marathon is included in the cost of your package
There are no qualifying times for the Great Ocean Road Marathon.
All participants MUST be 18 years or older on race day
The Great Ocean Road Marathon starts at 8:00am
There is a 6h:30m cut off for this event
The Great Ocean Road Brooks Half Marathon will be timed using chip technology
Australian Competitors
Race Packs are only posted to those who register prior to 11.59pm Tuesday 08 April and provide an Australian address on their registration. If for any reason your Race Pack does not arrive, a replacement pack can be collected from the Race Week Office. Please note, if you enter the Event between 12:00am on Wednesday 09 April and 11:59pm on Tuesday 15 April, you will have the option of paying for priority postage or collection from the event race offices (Lorne and Apollo Bay) during race office hours.
Registering from 12:00am Wednesday April 19 onwards, means you will be required to pick up/collect your Event race pack from the Event race office prior to the commencement of the Event.
International Competitors
All international competitors are required to collect their packs from the Race Week Office. Please ensure nomination of either Lorne or Apollo Bay Race Week Offices, upon registration
Lorne
Lorne Foreshore (North of the SLSC Carpark)
Mountjoy Parade
Lorne, Victoria
The Opening hours are:
Apollo Bay Surf Life Saving Club
Great Ocean Rd
Apollo Bay, Victoria, 3233
The Opening hours are:
You will not be able to collect your Race Pack on race morning as there will be no office at the start lines so please ensure that you have collected your pack before race morning!
You are welcome to have someone else collect your pack on your behalf if you are unable to attend the office. Please be aware they will need your Confirmation Email containing your unique QR code to do so.
There are no official Pace Setters in this event
There will be 12 drink stations throughout the Great Ocean Road Marathon Course.
Water will be provided on course as well as Science in Sport Drink.
Please discard this rubbish at the bins provided at the drink stations.
Distance | Items Provided |
Start Line | Water |
2.5km | Water |
5km | Water |
10.7km | Water/Gatorade |
15.4km | Water/Gatorade |
21.8km | Water/Gatorade |
25km | Water/Gatorade |
31.1km | Water/Gatorade |
36.2km | Water/Gatorade |
39.4km | Water/Gatorade |
43.1km | Water/Gatorade |
Finish Line | Water/Gatorade |
You may also choose to carry your own sports drinks/gels with you.
Marathon competitors will be required to collect a warm clothing bag in order to check in their warm clothing on race day.
On Race Day you can drop off your labelled warm clothing bag at designated points at the start lines in Lorne.
After the race, you must collect your bag from Moore Street next to the Apollo Bay Hotel, near the event finish line.
Make sure you have your bib on you to ensure that volunteers will be able to hand back the warm clothing bag corresponding to your bib number.
Storage areas for warm clothing bags will be manned by volunteers and marshals on race day and it is strongly recommended that you avoid placing valuables in clothing bags.
Note that the race organisers do not accept any responsibility for lost or stolen goods.
Getting to the start line in Lorne (depart from 5:45am):
Please note there are two departure points along Main St. Please make sure you are at the departure point for Marathon/Ultra Marathon runners. Exact locations will be published closer to the event.
If you are staying in Lorne the start line is a short walk form your hotel and shuttle buses will be available to bring you back to Lorne after the race (departing from approx. 11am onwards)
There will be a Festival Hub in Apollo Bay that will have official merchandise.
Opening hours are:
Friday, 16 May | 9:00am-6:00pm |
Saturday, 17 May | 8:00am-6:00pm |
Sunday, 18 May | 9:00am-2:30pm |
All finishers will receive a medal and all competitors will receive a gift that can be collected at the finish line at the end of your run!
Please remember to show your race bib to claim your gift!
The average high temperature in May for Apollo Bay is 16 degrees Celsius and an average low temperature of 10 degrees Celsius.
There is an average of 16 days rain in May so please ensure to pack appropriate wet weather running gear, just in case
60km Ultra Marathon
23km Brooks Half Marathon
14km Paradise Run
6km Fun Run
1.5km Kids Gallop
12km Trail Run
6km Trail Run
5km or 10km Great Ocean Road Walk
The Great Ocean Road Marathon offers a unique experience with its main event covering a distance of 44 kilometres, rather than the traditional marathon length of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles).
Additionally, the event features other race distances catering to a variety of fitness levels and preferences, such as the half marathon (23km), Ultra Marathon (60km), the Great Ocean Road Walk (5km/10km) and more.
The Great Ocean Road Marathon typically takes place in May of each year. However, it is important to check official sites to confirm.
This year’s 2024 event takes place on Sunday the 19th of May.
Although not up there with some of the more difficult marathon events, the Great Ocean Road Marathon can be considered challenging due to several factors, including its unique distance of 44 kilometres, which exceeds the traditional marathon length.
The course is renowned for its stunning coastal views, but these come with the added challenge of varying elevations, including hills and bends, that test the endurance and agility of participants.
Preparation for this event should include training that focuses on both distance and elevation to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Friends and family are encouraged to cheer competitors on as they cross the finish line.
Please note, for all events finishing in Apollo Bay on Sunday 19 May, supporters will not be allowed on the Great Ocean Road between Lorne and Skenes Creek from 7:00am – 2:30pm. While the road is closed there will be an inland detour route provided.
As the proud Travel Provider for the Great Ocean Road Running Festival, Travelling Fit is pleased to advise we have some great accommodation deals on offer located in the both the seaside paradise of Lorne and the amazing Apollo Bay.
Lorne is just a short walking distance to the Ultra Marathon and the Marathon Start Line (your bus transfer is included) and Apollo Bay is where the Ultra Marathon, Marathon and Brooks Half Marathon all finish.
The Great Ocean Road Running Festival is held in a beautiful and unique area of Victoria, Australia on the Southern Ocean.
Each year that this event has been conducted, it has attracted many athletes from around the world, all eager to participate in this challenging and pristine environment.
The Great Ocean Road is an icon in Australia and is renowned throughout the world for its beauty and panoramic views of the Southern Ocean. It has a colourful history surrounding its construction and ultimate destinations along the coastline.
Anyone travelling along this road by car would not be able to experience the absolute serenity and at times the wilderness experience that you as a runner can. As you run along this course, with no traffic at all, you can almost hear the waves calling your name. The only sound you will hear is the soft thud of footsteps from your fellow competitors.
Victoria’s iconic Great Ocean Road is home to one of the world’s most visually spectacular running events.
Starting at the Kennett River Holiday Park, the Brooks Half Marathon course winds its way along the Great Ocean Road to the finishing line in Apollo Bay.
The course itself is 23km in total distance and is flat to undulating, with an elevation gain of around 167m and there are several long, upwards sections on the course, most notably from the Kennett River to Cape Patton.
The last 6km of the course is relatively flat.
The entry Fee to the Great Ocean Road Brooks Half Marathon is included in the cost of your package
There are no qualifying times for the Great Ocean Road Brooks Half Marathon.
All participants MUST be 16 years or older on race day
The Great Ocean Road Brooks Half Marathon starts at 8:00am
There is a 6h:30m cut off for this event
The Great Ocean Road Brooks Half Marathon will be timed using chip technology
Australian Competitors
Race Packs are only posted to those who register prior to 11.59pm Tuesday 08 April and provide an Australian address on their registration. If for any reason your Race Pack does not arrive, a replacement pack can be collected from the Race Week Office. Please note, if you enter the Event between 12:00am on Wednesday 09 April and 11:59pm on Tuesday 15 April, you will have the option of paying for priority postage or collection from the event race offices (Lorne and Apollo Bay) during race office hours.
Registering from 12:00am Wednesday April 19 onwards, means you will be required to pick up/collect your Event race pack from the Event race office prior to the commencement of the Event.
International Competitors
All international competitors are required to collect their packs from the Race Week Office. Please ensure nomination of either Lorne or Apollo Bay Race Week Offices, upon registration
Lorne
Lorne Foreshore (North of the SLSC Carpark)
Mountjoy Parade
Lorne, Victoria
The Opening hours are:
Apollo Bay Surf Life Saving Club
Great Ocean Rd
Apollo Bay, Victoria, 3233
The Opening hours are:
You will not be able to collect your Race Pack on race morning as there will be no office at the start lines so please ensure that you have collected your pack before race morning!
You are welcome to have someone else collect your pack on your behalf if you are unable to attend the office. Please be aware they will need your Confirmation Email containing your unique QR code to do so.
There are no official Pace Setters in this event
There will be 6 drink stations throughout the Brooks Half Marathon Course.
Water will be provided on course as well as a Science in Sport drink.
Please discard this rubbish at the bins provided at the drink stations.
Distance | Items Provided |
5km | Water |
9.43km | Water/Science in Sport/Jelly Beans |
14.41km | Water/Science in Sport/Jelly Beans |
18.31km | Water/Science in Sport/Jelly Beans |
21.61km | Water/Science in Sport/Jelly Beans |
Finish Line | Water/Science in Sport/Bananas |
You may also choose to carry your own sports drinks/gels with you.
Brooks Half Marathon competitors will be required to collect a warm clothing bag in order to check in their warm clothing on race day.
On Race Day you can drop off your labelled warm clothing bag at designated points at the start lines in Kennett River.
After the race, you must collect your bag from Moore Street next to the Apollo Bay Hotel, near the event finish line.
Make sure you have your bib on you to ensure that volunteers will be able to hand back the warm clothing bag corresponding to your bib number.
Storage areas for warm clothing bags will be manned by volunteers and marshals on race day and it is strongly recommended that you avoid placing valuables in clothing bags.
Note that the race organisers do not accept any responsibility for lost or stolen goods.
A shuttle bus service will run to get Brooks Half Marathon runners to the start line in Kennett river on Sunday 15th May.
Return buses will travel from Apollo Bay back to Lorne after the event.
The required bus pass to enable you to travel on these buses is included in your package.
There will be a Festival Hub in Apollo Bay that will have official merchandise.
Opening hours are:
Friday, 16 May | 9:00am-6:00pm |
Saturday, 17 May | 8:00am-6:00pm |
Sunday, 18 May | 9:00am-2:30pm |
All finishers will receive a medal and all competitors will receive a gift that can be collected at the finish line at the end of your run!
Please remember to show your race bib to claim your gift!
The average high temperature in May for Apollo Bay is 16 degrees Celsius and an average low temperature of 10 degrees Celsius.
There is an average of 16 days rain in May so please ensure to pack appropriate wet weather running gear, just in case
60km Ultra Marathon
44km Marathon
14km Paradise Run
6km Fun Run
1.5km Kids Gallop
12km Trail Run
6km Trail Run
5km or 10km Great Ocean Road Walk
The Great Ocean Road Half Marathon may not be overly challenging for a seasoned runner however it does present challenges due to its undulating course and extra distance.
The route offers a mix of flat sections, rolling hills, and a few steep climbs, particularly as it takes runners along the scenic coastal road.
The difficulty can vary depending on an individual’s training, experience, and preparedness for variable terrain.
The Great Ocean Road Half Marathon covers a distance of approximately 23 kilometres (around 14.3 miles).
This is slightly longer than the standard half marathon distance of 21.1 kilometres (13.1 miles), making it a unique challenge for participants.
There is also a Marathon 44km and Ultra Marathon 60km race option.
Friends and family are encouraged to cheer competitors on as they cross the finish line.
Please note, for all events finishing in Apollo Bay on Sunday 19 May, supporters will not be allowed on the Great Ocean Road between Lorne and Skenes Creek from 7:00am – 2:30pm. While the road is closed there will be an inland detour route provided.
Be the first in the world to greet the new day as you race along the coast.
The First Light Marathon takes place in Tairāwhiti Gisborne, Aotearoa New Zealand, which is known for being the first city in the world to see the sun each day.
Its spectacular coastline and the steep green hills provide a magical backdrop to this unique race. Runners will herald in the sunrise as they crest the many hills and race along the white sand beach.
The Travelling Fit Team have participated in both the Marathon and the Half Marathon.
Our experience is your peace of mind
Travelling Fit is delighted to offer you a 5 Day / 4 Night Package with the option to choose from 4 different excursions:
There will also be the option to join a pre and/or post marathon extension tour as follows:
PACKAGE FLYERS
Both the Marathon and Half-Marathon runners will begin on the boardwalk next to Midway Beach. The race starts just before sunrise, and participants will follow the boardwalk out of Tairāwhiti Gisborne until the first hills are reached. As runners crest the first hill, they’ll be rewarded with a view of the sun slowly rising out over the Pacific Ocean. You will be among the first people in the world to greet the new day as the sun illuminates the landscape around you.
Both marathon and half-marathon runners will face a series of short, steep hills once they are out of the city. The race is a mix of single-track trails, roads, and off-road surfaces. Half-marathon runners will loop through the hills back toward the city, while marathon runners head out to Wainui Beach for roughly a kilometer through the sand next to the sparkling waves. Then, marathon runners will head back into the hills to tackle even more challenging climbs until they once again reach Tairāwhiti Gisborne.
Both half-marathon and marathon runners will finish the race on the same boardwalk where the race began, running onto Midway Beach for some well-deserved rest and refreshments.
The route will be well-marked with many small flags, arrows, and kilometer signs. Water stations will be positioned along the route at approximately every 4 kilometers.
Some stations will also serve energy drinks, bananas, and energy gels. Personal supplies can be deposited at the start/finish area in a staffed bag drop area. There will be toilets and post-race refreshments in the start/finish area as well.
Travelling Fit provided a fantastic experience and an opportunity to run the Berlin Marathon to tick of one of the 6 stars. Everything was so well organised, pretty much nothing to worry about apart from running the marathon. This was a big contributing factor to me running a 4 min PB. I will be looking to use TF for Tokyo and London in the coming years. A big thanks to Nicole and Michael for being such great hosts. |
Your entry to the First Light Half Marathon is included in the cost of your package
Half Marathon runners must be at least 16 years old.
The First Light Half Marathon is scheduled to start at 5:40am
The race officially ends at 13:40. This means that both marathon runners and half-marathon runners have a cut-off time of 8 hours.
Any runners left on the route after this cut-off time will be collected by car.
Timing is done with a chip which will come in your “goodie bag”
Runners will receive their goodie bags when arriving in Gisborne 23rd January.
The goodie bag will contain your start/bib number, timing chip, official race T-shirt, information on the race route, and schedule for your trip.
There are no pace setters for the First Light Half Marathon
Water stations will be positioned along the route at approximately every 4 kilometers.
Some stations will also serve energy drinks, bananas, and energy gels. Personal supplies can be deposited at the start/finish area in a staffed bag drop area.
There will be toilets and post-race refreshments in the start/finish area as well.
It is possible to deposit bags with personal items in the start/finish area for use before and after the race. Please mark your bag clearly with your name and bib number.
Although the luggage area is manned, depositing personal belongings in the area is entirely each runner’s responsibility and the First Light Marathon organisers are not responsible for loss or damage of personal belongings.
There is no Expo associated with the First Light Half Marathon
However, after the Powhiri, on race day, and at the celebration dinner, a variety of exclusive First Light Marathon merchandise can be purchased.
All finishers receive a medal. A small, symbolic prize is given to the winners of both distances for men and women.
Please note that there is no prize money.
The average temperature range for Tairāwhiti, Gisborne, in February is 14 to 24 degrees Celsius (57 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit)
Marathon
6km Fun Run
As the Official Travel Partner and sponsor for the Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival, Travelling Fit is offering guaranteed race entry into the Marathon and secured rooms at Mantra on Jolimont, conveniently located just a short walk to the Melbourne Cricket Ground – the race precinct for all the events during the Melbourne Marathon Festival.
If you have already secured a guaranteed race entry, you are more than welcome to book one of our supporter packages which excludes the race entry but offers you accommodation.
Start at Batman Avenue.
Head north along Batman Avenue; left into Flinders Street, left into Swanston Street, cross to northbound (west side) service lane at Princes Bridge and then head along St Kilda Road.
At St Kilda Junction, runners turn right into Fitzroy Street then right into Lakeside Drive and do a lap anti-clockwise circuit of the Lake.
This Lake loop requires runners to turn left into Albert Road Drive from Lakeside Drive and left into Aughtie Drive continuing around the Albert Park Lake roadway.
At the Carousel car park runners proceed behind and around Pits Building using Aughtie Walk before U-turning in Aughtie Drive past Turn 1
Proceed along Aughtie Dve to a right hand turn into Village Green Rd and right onto Lakeside Drive and right on to Fitzroy St.
Make a right hand turn at Acland St extension into the city bound lanes of Beaconsfield Parade, proceed north to a U-turn just before Bay St heading south back along Beaconsfield Pde toward St Kilda.
At the Beaconsfield Parade intersection with Jacka Boulevard, runners will veer right and head towards Elwood using Jacka Boulevard, Marine Parade and Ormond Esplanade to a U-Turn near St Kilda St. Runners then return north along Ormond Esplanade, Marine Parade, Jacka Blvd in to a right hand turn into extension of Acland St, followed by a left hand turn into Fitzroy St.
Turn left into the St Kilda Road northbound service lanes and continue to left hand turn into Southbank Blvd, right hand turn into Sturt St and proceed (under the St Kilda Rd) along Alexandra Ave to a right hand turn into Linlithgow Ave.
Proceed along Linlithgow Ave to Birdwood Ave to right hand turn into Domain Rd.
Take a right hand turn up Dallas Brooks drive, left onto Birdwood Ave, veer left onto Government House drive and then right onto St Kilda Road.
Proceed along St Kilda Rd to a right hand turn into Flinders St.
Veer right into Wellington Parade South, turn right into Brunton Ave then left into the MCG via Gate C and do one lap of the MCG to the finish line.
Note: : Course is subject to change.
2024 Melbourne Marathon Entry Costs – Entries Fees are included
There are no qualifying times for the Marathon.
However, once you have successfully entered, you can apply for a Preferred Start, which is a starting position immediately behind the Elite field. To be granted a preferred start you must have achieved certain qualifying times for your event since 01 January 2023.
Tier 1 | Tier 2 | |
---|---|---|
MALE | Sub 2:15 | Sub 2:19 |
FEMALE | Sub 2:34 | Sub 2:40 |
Applications for Preferred Starts must be made online and should include details of the races (i.e. race name, date and distance) at which qualifying performances have been achieved. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Any participants who are not registered will not be considered. All applications are checked to guarantee times submitted are valid. Applications for preferred starts will open in May.
The Melbourne Marathon Festival – Full Marathon will commence at 7:00am
The finish line will remain open until 2:00pm for all events (7:00 hour cut-off).
All competitors that cannot run at a sub-5hr marathon pace should make themselves familiar with the alternate route for slow marathoners and obey instructions from marshals on the day.
Your Timing Chip can be found on the back of your race bib (excluding 3km competitors) that will be in your Race Pack with your Competitor Information Booklet. The Timing Chip will appear on the top half of the bib and will look like a label and must remain intact.
Do not remove or tamper with the Chip as this will result in NO TIMES being recorded of your effort.
Details to be confirmed
If you register before 11:59pm Thursday 04 July and select and pay for postage ($5.50), your personalised race bib will be sent to you at the address provided.
If you register from 12:00am Friday 05 July or do not pay for postage, you will be required to collect your race bib from the Race Week Office.
Your race pack will include:
Please note show bags (including T-shirt for Marathon competitors) are to be collected from the MCG.
The 2024 Melbourne Marathon will once again be providing Pace Group Leaders.
There will be pacers for the following expected finishing times (hours and minutes):
2:50, 3:00, 3:10, 3:20, 3:30, 3:40, 3:50, 4:00, 4:10, 4:20, 4:30, 4:45, 5:00
The sports drink provided on course will be Gatorade.
Marathon competitors who wish to have their own refreshments available to collect from designated Drink Stations on course during Race Day.
DISTANCE (KM) | SUPPLIED | MEDICAL | TOILETS |
0 | Water + Gatorade | Yes | Yes |
3 | Water | Yes | Yes |
6 | Water + Gatorade | Yes | Yes |
11.2 | Water + Gatorade + Maurten Hydrogel + PERSONAL DRINKS | Yes | Yes |
17 | Water + Gatorade | Yes | Yes |
20.3 | Water + Gatorade | Yes | Yes |
24.2 | Water + Gatorade + PERSONAL DRINKS | Yes | Yes |
27.8 | Water + Gatorade | Yes | Yes |
31.1 | Water + Gatorade + Maurten Hydrogel | Yes | Yes |
34.1 | Water | Yes | Yes |
36.5 | Water + Gatorade + PERSONAL DRINKS | Yes | Yes |
39.5 | Water + Gatorade | Yes | Yes |
41 | Water + Gatorade | Yes | Yes |
42.195 | Water + Gatorade | Yes | Yes |
The Drop off location for personal refreshments is at the MCG outside Gate 2 near Cricket Nets
Guidelines for personal refreshments are as follows:
Expo Dates | Expo Hours |
Thursday 10 October | 8:00am – 6:00pm |
Friday 11 October | 8:00am – 6:00pm |
Saturday 12 October | 8:00am – 3:00pm |
Sunday 13 October | 7:30am – 2:00pm |
The average temperature range for Melbourne in December is 14 to 24 degrees Celsius (57 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit)
As the Official Travel Partner and sponsor for the Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival, Travelling Fit is offering guaranteed race entry into the Half Marathon and secured rooms at Mantra on Jolimont, conveniently located just a short walk to the Melbourne Cricket Ground – the race precinct for all the events during the Melbourne Marathon Festival.
If you have already secured a guaranteed race entry, you are more than welcome to book one of our supporter packages which excludes the race entry but offers you accommodation.
Start at Batman Avenue.
Head north along Batman Avenue; left into Flinders Street, left into Swanston Street, cross to northbound (west side) service lane at Princes Bridge and then head south along St Kilda Road.
At St Kilda Junction, turn right into Fitzroy Street then right into Lakeside Drive and do an anticlockwise lap of Albert Park Lake.
The Lake loop requires you to turn left into Albert Road Drive from Lakeside Drive and left into Aughtie Drive continuing around the Albert Park Lake roadway.
At the Carousel carpark, proceed behind and around Pits Building using Aughtie Walk, entering the pit lane in Aughtie Drive before U-turning approx. 300m past the Pits Building.
Proceed along Aughtie Drive to a right hand turn into Village Green Rd and right into Lakeside Drive and LEFT in to Fitzroy St.
Turn left into the St Kilda Road northbound service lanes and continue to LEFT hand turn into Southbank Blvd, right hand turn into Sturt St and proceed (under the St Kilda Rd) along Alexandra Ave to a right hand turn into Linlithgow Ave.
Proceed along Linlithgow Ave (note: HALF Marathon STAY on the RIGHT) until the right hand turn into St Kilda Road.
Proceed along St Kilda Rd to a right hand turn into Flinders St.
Veer right into Wellington Parade South, turn right into Brunton Ave then left into the MCG via Gate C and do one lap of the MCG to the finish line.
Note: : Course is subject to change.
2024 Melbourne Marathon Entry Costs – Entries Fees are included
There are no qualifying times for the Half Marathon.
However, once you have successfully entered, you can apply for a Preferred Start, which is a starting position immediately behind the Elite field. To be granted a preferred start you must have achieved certain qualifying times for your event since 01 January 2023
Tier 1 | Tier 2 | |
---|---|---|
MALE | Sub 1:15 | Sub 1:20 |
FEMALE | Sub 1:25 | Sub 1:30 |
Applications for Preferred Starts must be made online and should include details of the races (i.e. race name, date and distance) at which qualifying performances have been achieved. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Any participants who are not registered will not be considered. All applications are checked to guarantee times submitted are valid. Applications for preferred starts will open in May.
The Melbourne Marathon Festival – Half Marathon will commence at 8:00am
The course will remain open until 2:00pm.
Your Timing Chip can be found on the back of your race bib (excluding 3km competitors) that will be in your Race Pack with your Competitor Information Booklet. The Timing Chip will appear on the top half of the bib and will look like a label and must remain intact.
Do not remove or tamper with the Chip as this will result in NO TIMES being recorded of your effort.
Details to be confirmed
IIf you register before 11:59pm Thursday 04 July and select and pay for postage ($5.50), your personalised race bib will be sent to you at the address provided.
If you register from 12:00am Friday 05 July or do not pay for postage, you will be required to collect your race bib from the Race Week Office.
Please note show bags (including T-shirt for Marathon competitors) are to be collected from the MCG.
The 2024 Melbourne Half Marathon will once again be providing Pace Group Leaders.
There will be pacers for the following expected finishing times (hours and minutes):
1:30, 1:35, 1:40, 1:45, 1:50, 2:00, 2:10, 2:20
The sports drink provided on course will be Science in Sport.
KM | SUPPLIED | MEDICAL | TOILETS |
---|---|---|---|
0 | Water + Gatorade | Yes | Yes |
3 | Water | Yes | Yes |
6 | Water + Gatorade | Yes | Yes |
11.2 | Water + Gatorade | Yes | Yes |
15.5 | Water | Yes | Yes |
18.8 | Water + Gatorade | Yes | Yes |
21.1 | Water + Science in Sport | Yes |
There are no provisions for personal refreshments to be left on the course for the Half Marathon
The Runners Expo is located on the external concourse of the MCG. With an exciting array of fitness specific stores, you’ll have plenty of things to see and do before and after your race, as well as if you are visiting the Race Week Office to collect your race pack!
The Expo will be located on the external concourse of the MCG between Gates 1 and 2.
Expo Dates | Expo Hours |
Thursday 10 October | 8:00am – 6:00pm |
Friday 11 October | 8:00am – 6:00pm |
Saturday 12 October | 8:00am – 3:00pm |
Sunday 13 October | 7:30am – 2:00pm |
All entrants receive a Finishers Medal, Finishers certificate and Running Shirt
The average temperature range for Melbourne in December is 14 to 24 degrees Celsius (57 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit)
Come and see why so many people are rating this event as the best event they have ever been to.
With four different courses to choose from, five different resorts to stay in and the iconic Uluru and Kata Tjuta as your backdrop, this is the perfect opportunity to come and see the true “heart” of Australia
PLEASE NOTE:
Bookings for the Australian Outback Marathon need to be entered via the official website. Please click here for more details
Rooms accommodating up to 5 people are available in selected properties
Details and prices Australian Outback Marathon Website – Click Here
We have a fantastic selection of optional tours to choose from to make your trip to the Australian Outback Marathon even more special.
Note that the Uluru/Kata Tjuta park pass is already included in the Platinum, Diamond and Silver itineraries
PACKAGE FLYERS
The Australian Outback Marathon, Half Marathon, 11km and 6km courses will be predominantly off-road, made up of bush trails, access roads and tracks as well as unsealed roads. Only a small amount of the course will be run on sealed roads.
The running surface will consist mainly of the famous “red earth” that can be found all over central Australia, and stunning views of Uluru (Ayres Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) are waiting for you around almost every corner.
Please note that the course itself has some “soft sand” areas. The actual amount of sand depends on the weather during the previous couple of months.
Are you up for the challenge? Our packages suit all tastes and budgets, the Australian Outback Marathon is a must for runners who have wanted to explore the stunning Australian outback.
Our marathon travel packages include guaranteed race entry, accommodation within close proximity to the location of the event, transport, pre-race meals and more. With plenty of local runners this marathon fills quickly so don’t miss out, book your travel package today.
All entry fees are included as part of your package.
NOTE: there are no Race Entry Only places available for the Australian Outback Marathon
There are no qualifying times for the Australian Outback Marathon
The Marathon will start at 7:45am
The Marathon will have an 8 hour cut-off
All Marathon runners will be timed using chip technology
Your race packets will be available on your arrival at the the resort and will include:
There will be no official pace setters for the Marathon
There will be drink stations approximately every 3km on the Marathon Course.
In addition all runners will be able to leave personal drinks out on the course at designated drink stations.
All personal drinks MUST be easily identifiable and should be left at the race briefing on the Friday before the race
Personal refreshments can be left on several of the aid station tables (details to be advised).
Personal clothing can be left at the race start and and at every drink station and they will then be available the following morning for collection once you have completed your event.
Note that ALL items not collected on the Sunday morning after the race will be automatically donated to charity
All transport for your itinerary is included as part of your package, including bus transfers to and from Connellan Airport (Ayers Rock Airport)
The average daytime temperature is 21 degrees Celsius
The average night time temperature is 5 degrees Celsius
Marathon
11km Run/Walk
6km Walk
We will have Marathon-Photos.com with us during the event and ALL your race photography, including your course and finishers photo’s, are included as part of your package. There is NO ADDITIONAL FEE for your photographs
In addition, all participants will receive one (1) pass to the exclusive Australian Outback Marathon Pasta Party on the evening prior to the event
Come and see why so many people are rating this event as the best event they have ever been to.
With four different courses to choose from, five different resorts to stay in and the iconic Uluru and Kata Tjuta as your backdrop, this is the perfect opportunity to come and see the true “heart” of Australia
PLEASE NOTE:
Bookings for the Australian Outback Half Marathon need to be entered via the official website. Please click here for more details.
Rooms accommodating up to 5 people are available in selected properties
OPTIONAL TOURS
Details and prices Australian Outback Marathon Website – Click Here
We have a fantastic selection of optional tours to choose from to make your trip to the Australian Outback Marathon even more special.
Note that the Uluru/Kata Tjuta park pass is already included in the Platinum, Diamond and Silver itineraries
PACKAGE FLYERS
The Australian Outback Marathon, Half Marathon, 11km and 6km courses will be predominantly off-road, made up of bush trails, access roads and tracks as well as unsealed roads. Only a small amount of the course will be run on sealed roads.
The running surface will consist mainly of the famous “red earth” that can be found all over central Australia, and stunning views of Uluru (Ayres Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) are waiting for you around almost every corner.
Please note that the course itself has some “soft sand” areas. The actual amount of sand depends on the weather during the previous couple of months. Are you up for the challenge? Our packages suit all tastes and budgets, the Australian Outback Marathon is a must for runners who have wanted to explore the stunning Australian outback.
Our marathon travel packages include guaranteed race entry, accommodation within close proximity to the location of the event, transport, pre-race meals and more. With plenty of local runners this marathon fills quickly so don’t miss out, book your travel package today.
There are no qualifying times for the Australian Outback Marathon
The Half Marathon will start at 7:45am
The Half-Marathon will have an 8 hour cut-off
All Half Marathon runners will be timed using chip technology
Your race packets will be available on your arrival at the the resort and will include:
There will be no official pace setters for the Half Marathon
There will be drink stations approximately every 3km on the Half Marathon Course.
In addition all runners will be able to leave personal drinks out on the course at the 15km drink station
All personal drinks MUST be easily identifiable and should be left at the race briefing on the Friday before the race
Personal refreshments can be left on the 15km drink station
Personal clothing can be left at the race start and and at every drink station and they will then be available the following morning for collection once you have completed your event.
Note that ALL items not collected on the Sunday morning after the race will be automatically donated to charity
All transport for your itinerary is included as part of your package, including bus transfers to and from Connellan Airport (Ayers Rock Airport)
There is no expo associated with the Australian Outback Marathon
All finishers will receive a specially created commemorative medal and a finishers certificate (available online)
The average daytime temperature is 21 degrees Celsius
The average night time temperature is 5 degrees Celsius
Marathon
11km Run/Walk
6km Walk
We will have Marathon-Photos.com with us during the event and ALL your race photography, including your course and finishers photo’s, are included as part of your package. There is NO ADDITIONAL FEE for your photographs
In addition, all participants will receive one (1) pass to the exclusive Australian Outback Marathon Pasta Party on the evening prior to the event
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