Herald Sun / Transurban Run For The Kids

The Herald Sun / Transurban Run for the Kids is one of the great local events in Melbourne aimed at fundraising for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

Participants can choose to walk or run the 12.8km long course or opt for the shorter 5.2km course. This popular event requires participants to pay entry fees, with a significant portion of the money raised donated to the Appeal.

Herald Sun Run For The Kids Melbourne Course Map & 2020 Dates

Tens of thousands of people participate in the event every year; including runners, walkers, families, kids and large corporate groups – with millions of dollars being raised each year.

The event provides runners with a choice of two courses, with both tracks starting in front of Marvel Stadium and ending around Newquay Promenade. It’s recommended that families and kids choose the shorter 5.2km course, which is designed to be much more family-friendly. The other course is around 12.8kms and runs along the West Gate Freeway, heading over the Bolte Bridge. The course continues along CityLink to exit at Racecourse Road just before the sound tube, passing the Royal Children’s Hospital on Flemington Road and heading back towards the Docklands to finish on Latrobe Street near Harbour Esplanade.

There are five water stations on the 12.8km course and one on the 5.2km course. Water is also available at the start and finish. Toilets are located at the 3km, 6km 9km and 12km water stations of the long course, at the 2.5km water station of the short course.

Dogs are not permitted to run in the race with participants. Prams are permitted, but for safety reasons will be required to start at the rear of the race.

At the end of the race, head to the event village for all participants and supporters to enjoy after completion of the run. Activities here include a recovery zone to re-hydrate and re-fuel and stretch out weary muscles on foam rollers and mats. There is also the main stage with live entertainment, prize giveaways; including a Mazda vehicle to one lucky winner.

Combined with kids activities, food outlets, a host of sponsor activities and giveaways, plus event merchandise, there is plenty of reason to stay around after your run and enjoy the carnival atmosphere and celebrate your outstanding achievement.