The Canberra Times Marathon Festival, presented by TCS, is set to become a major international event with a new two-day format. Organisers Sole Motive have partnered with the ACT Government to elevate the race, which is Australia's oldest city marathon, onto the global running calendar.
Scheduled for April 11 and 12, the festival will feature a range of events for all ages and abilities. On Saturday, participants can take part in a 10km race, a 5km race, or a 2km kids' dash. Sunday will host the full marathon (42.2km) and a half marathon (21.1km).
The scenic courses will run on closed roads, passing iconic landmarks such as Parliament House and Lake Burley Griffin. The event has more than doubled in size since 2019, and record participation in 2025 sets the stage for the biggest year yet in 2026.
“We are thrilled to partner with the ACT Government to transform the future of the Canberra Marathon,” said Lisa Holmes, CEO of Sole Motive. “Together we’re elevating the event into a truly iconic Marathon that celebrates the joy of running and everything that makes Canberra a world-class destination.”
Holmes added that the new phase of long-term growth aims to boost participation, attract interstate and international runners, and position Canberra as a world-class destination. Registrations are now open for all events, including the 42.2K, 21.1K, 10K, 5K, and Kids 2K.
