A different kind of September is taking shape at Kardinia Park as the inaugural Geelong Running Festival laces up for its first event.
The three-day festival, from 18-20 September, will bring together competitive runners and the wider community on the elite sporting stage.
Whether chasing a medal, a PB or a personal milestone, the festival celebrates the journey as much as the finish line.
Expertly designed by local distance running legend and three-time Olympian Lee Troop, the courses showcase Geelong’s iconic landmarks.
All races on Sunday 20 September include the exclusive opportunity to run on the grass of GMHBA Stadium at Kardinia Park, the home of top-tier football and cricket and recently revealed as Victorian host of Spilt Milk music festival.
Lee Troop, Olympian, Geelong Running Festival
The best running events are about the memories created along the way, and having Kardinia Park as part of the course gives runners something truly special. Geelong has everything needed to become a destination on the Australian running scene, and this event is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the city.
The new festival is proudly supported through the City of Greater Geelong’s Major Events funding program, reflecting the City’s commitment to attracting and growing events that enhance Geelong’s reputation as a leading destination for sport and active lifestyles.
Deputy Mayor Cr Eddy Kontelj has signed up for the marathon and is council’s official event ambassador.
Deputy Mayor Cr Eddy Kontelj
Greater Geelong is becoming a mecca for major events, and Kardinia Park is central to that.
September is a special time in Geelong, so the chance to run through such an iconic venue at a time when footy finals are on and global superstars are on their way, is something participants will remember forever.
Rick Bell, General Manager – Venue and Commercial Operations, Kardinia Park Stadium Trust
Kardinia Park Stadium Trust is thrilled to be supporting the inaugural year of the Geelong Running Festival.
The event will promote health, wellbeing and community participation, while showcasing many of Geelong’s iconic landmarks, including GMHBA Stadium at Kardinia Park.
Giving participants the memorable experience of running through the stadium is something we are proud to be part of.
Festival community ambassador Kathleen Whitehead, of Bayview Podiatry
Showing up is what matters, whether it’s at the start line or on the sidelines. You don’t need to be an elite runner to experience the excitement of race day – there is a distance and a challenge for everyone.
The festival opens on Friday 18 September with the Brooks Running Expo at Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre and culminates with headline action on Sunday 20 September, including the marquee Zeekr Marathon. All events start at Nyaal Banyul and finish at Steampacket Gardens at the waterfront.
Entries, course maps and the daily schedule are available at geelongrunningfestival.com.au
