Melbourne Marathon

While Melbourne’s list of sporting events includes internationally renowned cricket matches, football games and tennis tournaments, the Melbourne Marathon is considered the most popular marathon held in the city.

Thousands of enthusiastic participants come and take part in this renowned event, with the event welcoming participants of all ages and abilities to participate.

Melbourne Marathon 2023 Dates, Course Route, Entry & Schedule

The Melbourne Marathon was originally started back in 1978. In 2007, a new course was developed for the race, starting on Batman Avenue and ending at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (the MCG).

Nike Marathon

Be a part of Australia’s premier marathon and race alongside marathon legends. Circle around Albert Park Lake, Flinders Street Station, pass the St Kilda beach foreshore and cross the finish line at the MCG to cheers from supporters, family and friends.

The Nike Melbourne Marathon is a competitive, adrenaline-filled race for those experienced in marathon running who want to set a PB on our fast and flat course, and is also perfect for first-timers and less experienced marathon runners.

Nike Half Marathon

Take the challenge of this iconic half marathon and race past Melbourne’s famous landmarks before you finish with a lap of the hallowed turf of the ‘G’. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned pro, you’ll love the buzz of being involved in something this big.

SriLankan Airlines 10km Run

Race through the streets of Melbourne, passing by numerous iconic landmarks such as Flinders Street Station, the Shrine of Remembrance and the Royal Botanic Gardens.

This race is perfect if you’re looking for a challenge, whether it’s setting a new PB or completing your first 10km run.

180 Nutrition Good Sport 5km Run

Experience Melbourne like never before and race around some of Melbourne’s most famous landmarks and iconic scenery. Take part alongside racegoers participating in their first long-distance competitive run, those running with family members or those who prefer to run shorter distances.

The 5km Run is an excellent first step into the world of competitive running.

3km Walk

Participate in the 3km Walk to raise money for charity or your own personal challenge. Complete the course and finish with a lap of the hallowed turf of the MCG to the cheers of family & friends.

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.

Please arrive at least 45 minutes before your event start time. It’s highly suggested that all competitors take public transport on the day due to limited parking space, traffic congestion on race day and the convenience and proximity of public transport from the start line and MCG.

Parking

Alexandra Avenue (between Swan St Bridge and Morrell Bridge) Once you find a park, walk across Swan St Bridge and take the footbridge over the rail lines. This leads directly to the MCG’s. Allow 10 minutes walk time.

Fitzroy Gardens (Wellington Parade /Lansdowne St/Albert St/Clarendon St (city side only) Once you find a park, walk to Wellington Parade Sth/Jolimont Terrace and use the MCG paths to the Ponsford Stand or Gate 3.

Anderson St (access off Domain Rd or Alexandra Ave) Once you find a park, walk across Morell Bridge and take the footbridge over the rail lines. This leads directly to the MCG’s Ponsford Stand. Allow 20 minutes of walk time.

Drop and Go Locations

There are x2 Drop and Go locations for this using a ride share app or are being dropped off by a friend/family member.

Wellington Parade (the corner of Wellington Parade and Wellington Parade South) is best suited for Saturday and Sunday participants who must go to the MCG before the Start Line.

Olympic Boulevard (out the front of Rod Laver Arena) – if you are a Sunday participant heading straight to the Start Line, this drop-off location is best for you. If you need to use the Warm Clothing Service, we recommend getting dropped off at Wellington Parade.

Spectators

Friends and family are invited to cheer you on as you cross the finish line. Free entry into the MCG will be available for spectators through Gate 2 on Sunday from 7am. Spectators and Participants might find it difficult to meet within the MCG; instead, it’s recommended locating a meeting spot within Yarra Park for ease.

Bikes and Pets are not permitted inside the MCG (Guide Dogs excepted). For spectators with prams, if you intend to watch the Event within the MCG at the finish line and have a baby or a toddler, prams and pushers will be permitted.