Upcoming events in Canberra for your running calendar
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Lace up Canberra, your autumn running calendar is about to fill up.
From scenic lakeside jogs to ultra-endurance challenges, there’s a running event for every pace, personality and confidence level over the next few months.
If you’re chasing a PB, running for a good cause, or just keen to soak up those crisp Canberra mornings, here’s where to start.
Canberra Times Marathon
If there’s one event that defines Canberra’s running scene, it’s this.
As the oldest city marathon in Australia, the Canberra Times Marathon is a bucket list race that brings together elite athletes, casual runners and everyone in between.
The variety of this event is what makes it really special. With distances ranging from a kids’ dash to the full 42.2k, it’s a weekend-long celebration of movement. Plus, the course winds its way around Lake Burley Griffen and the Parliamentary Triangle, one of Canberra’s most scenic routes to run.
No matter if you’re going all in on the marathon or enjoying the 5k, expect big energy, early starts and heaps of community spirit.
Register and get your last-minute entries now!
Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 April | John Dunmore Lang Place, Canberra | Register here.
GUMBY – Great Ultra Mediocre Back Yarder
Not your average fun run. Not even close.
The Great Ultra Mediocre Back Yarder (affectionately known as GUMBY) is for runners who like their challenges…extreme. The concept? A 6.7km loop every hour, on the hour, until only one person is left standing. Miss the cut off and you’re out.
Set against the bushland beauty of Blue Range Hut, this event leans into its quirky, counterculture vibe, complete with a ‘quitters’ ceremony’ and plenty of tongue in cheek energy.
This is for anyone a bit adventurous and looking for a one-of-a-kind community experience, but get in quick, entries close Friday 10 April!
Saturday 25 April, 9 am | Blue Range Hut, Blue Range Road, Coree | Register here.
ACTMA RUN WALK HANDICAP
ACTMA Run/Walk Handicap series is worth your attention if you like your runs with a side of strategy.
Held at the end of every month, these events are designed to level the playing field, giving participants of all abilities a chance to compete. This month’s race takes place at Mount Majura Nature Reserve, with both 5k and 10k options winding through bushland tracks and joining the Mount Ainslie trail.
It’s low-key, welcoming, and perfect for those who enjoy a more relaxed and social running experience.
Sunday 26 April, 9 am | Mount Majura Nature Reserve, ACT | More information here.
Sri Chinmoy Canberra Trail Series
Trail runners, this one’s for you!
The Sri Chinmoy Canberra Trail Series is a winter favourite, offering a mix of distances and locations that showcase some of Canberra’s best natural landscapes.
Kicking off with the ‘Cooleman Clip,’ the first race explores the tracks around Cooleman Ridge, starting and finishing at Chapman Oval.
With five events running through to July, it’s a great way to stay motivated (and perhaps a little muddy) across the cooler months. There’s lots to look forward to with varied terrain, peaceful surroundings, and a strong sense of camaraderie.
Sunday 26 April, 10 am | Chapman Oval, Chapman | Register here.
MS Walk Run + Roll
More than just a run, this is a chance to move for a cause.
The MS Walk, Run + Roll invites participants of all abilities to take part, no matter if you’re walking, running, rolling or pushing a pram. With 5k and 10k options starting at Rond Terrace, the event combines accessible routes with some of Canberra’s most iconic views.
Since 1989, this event has raised millions of dollars to support Australians living with Multiple Sclerosis, making it a meaningful way to get active while giving back.
Bring your friends, your dog, or your whole team together to go support this community event.
Sunday 3 May, 9 am | Round Terrace, Acton | Register here.
Mother’s Day Classic
Swap out breakfast in bed for a morning on the move this Mother’s Day. The Mother’s Day Classic is a much-loved annual event that brings the community together to support breast and ovarian cancer research.
With a new event village at Lennox Gardens for 2026, participants can choose between 5k and 10k courses that loop through Lake Burley Griffin and some of its most iconic landmarks, like Commonwealth Park.
Whether you’re running in honour of someone, fundraising, or simply going for the good cause and good times, this run is a powerful and uplifting way to start your Mother’s Day celebrations.
Sunday 10 May, 8 am | Lennox Gardens, Flynn Drive, Yarralumla | Register here.
Canberra Runners Half Marathon
Looking for a race that’s equal parts challenging and easily accessible? The Canberra Runners Half Marathon might just be your sweet spot.
Starting and finishing at Lennox Gardens, this course hugs the lake and nearby cycle paths, making it ideal for runner who love a flat, picturesque route. Alongside the traditional 21.2k half marathon distance, there’s also a 10k option if you want something a bit more beginner-friendly.
With a supportive atmosphere and a generous cut-off time of three and a half hours, it’s a great option for those wanting to cross the finish line strong.
Entries close at 7 pm on Wednesday 13 May.
Sunday 17 May, 7.30 am – 1 pm | Lennox Gardens, Flynn Drive, Yarralumla | Register here.
