2023 Mackay Whitsunday running and marathon events
Whether new to running or just looking for a challenge we’ve identified seven key events to add to your calendar from the islands to the rainforest.
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Whether you are a seasoned runner or just looking for a challenge to push your fitness goals, there’s a stack of events offering great opportunities to explore the stunning Greater Whitsundays area.
North Queensland Cross Country Championships
First on the list is the North Queensland Cross Country Championships which take place on March 19.
This event includes open men’s and women’s competitions across 10,000m titles, as well as juniors competitions across 6000m for women and 8000m for men.
“[The event] is huge for our club,” Whitsunday Running Club president Tim McQuiod-Mason said.
“It gives cross country competitors the opportunity to travel to the Whitsundays and experience the magnificent area.”
Mackay Marina Run
For those looking for something a little less intense, the Mackay Marina Run offers a range of distances to suit all fitness levels.
The event, which is the Mackay region’s largest community fun run, takes place on June 4 and includes a half marathon, 8km, 5km, 3km, as well as a 5km Corporate Challenge.
The Mackay Airport recently announced it would continue sponsoring the event for the foreseeable future.
Airlie Beach Marathon Festival
The Airlie Beach Marathon Festival is a popular event celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.
The festival line-up includes a marathon which will crown the North Queensland Champion, as well as the Tassal Airlie Beach Half Marathon, Whitsunday Transit 10km event, and Ray White 5km event.
“The Marathon Festival is our biggest event as it caters to so many runners,” Mr McQuiod-Mason said.
“Over the years, we have developed partnerships with local tourism operators and businesses so we can provide entrants with a genuine and memorable Whitsundays experience.”
Hamilton Island Hilly Half Marathon
The Hamilton Island Hilly Half Marathon takes place on April 30 and offers runners the chance to explore new and existing trails on the island.
The marathon includes a 21km event and will prove to be a challenge for even the most experienced runner.
Learn more about Hilly Half here.
Great Whitehaven Beach Run
For a more relaxed event, the Great Whitehaven Beach Run takes place on June 25.
It includes 5km and 10km events as well as a 1500m jog for the kids making it a great opportunity for families to get fit all together.
Mackay Mountain Marathon
The Mackay Mountain Marathon will take place on July 30 and 31.
This event offers a range of distances from a 5km run up to a strenuous 55km ultra-trail run.
The challenging terrain and stunning views are sure to make this event a memorable one and with the beauty of the Eungella region to gaze upon, you’ll have a distraction from the hard slog of running.
Visit the website closer to the date for more information.
Cruisin’ the Coast Sarina Beach Fun Run
The Cruisin’ the Coast Sarina Beach Fun Run is the Sarina Beach Surf Life Saving Club’s pinnacle fundraising event year.
It offers scenic views and beautiful running for all with distances of 3km, 5km, and 10km.
So what are you waiting for? Get your shoes on and mark the dates down in your calendars as 2023 is shaping up to make the Mackay Whitsunday region as the fittest in Queensland.
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