Wangaratta Marathon 2025

• Flat, scenic course: 38km cycling path, 4km roads, 300m grass/gravel.
• Varied distances: Marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, and kids run.
• Affordable entry: Focus on community and participation.
• Organized by Vigor Coaching, part of North East Sports Events.
• Registration via official website with credit card payment.

The Wangaratta Marathon and Fun Runs, orchestrated by the dedicated Wangaratta Fitness Fun Addicts, serve as a beacon for promoting physical activity within its community. Set against the verdant backdrop of Victoria, this event ingeniously utilizes Wangaratta's extensive path networks and rural charm, crafting a course that's as picturesque as it is challenging. Participants embark from the Norm Minns/Showground complex, navigating a thoughtfully designed loop that seamlessly blends grassy sections with paved paths, offering a diverse running experience that culminates in a 21km loop, efficiently repeated to fulfill the marathon distance. This scenic route not only offers the tranquil vistas of Wangaratta but is also prized for its affordability, deliberately maintaining lower entry fees to encourage broader participation. The marathon stands out for its community-centric ethos, with success gauged not by profit but by participant engagement and repeat attendance. The event, expecting between 1000 to 4999 participants, accommodates a variety of fitness levels with distances ranging from 2km to 21.1km, alongside the full marathon. An inviting option for both seasoned marathoners and those seeking a vibrant yet serene setting to embrace their running journey, the Wangaratta Marathon remains a quintessentially Australian running experience.

For the Wangaratta Marathon in mid-March, anticipate temperatures between 53-81°F (12-27°C) with low humidity. Enjoy moderate sunshine during the day, but be prepared for occasional rain.

The Wangaratta Marathon offers a picturesque 42.195 km journey, beginning at the Norm Minns Showground complex. Runners kick off on a grassy stretch before transitioning onto a riverside bitumen cycle path, setting a scenic tone for the race. As the course meanders through Wangaratta, participants navigate a blend of urban streets and tranquil fitness paths, with key segments crossing College Street and skirting the Riverside Estate.

One of the course's highlights is the crossing of the road bridge near the golf course, where runners are treated to expansive views before looping back. The dual-lap format introduces a fresh challenge, with subtle elevation changes—156 meters gained and 170 meters dropped—adding complexity, particularly on the second circuit.

Notable landmarks like Cambridge Drive and Evans Street punctuate the route, offering both orientation and variety. Certified by World Athletics, the course promises a high standard of competition, with its mix of natural beauty and urban energy making for a memorable marathon experience.

Exploring Wangaratta during the marathon weekend offers more than just a race; it's an invitation to uncover the charm of Victoria's northeast. Nestled in a region rich with cultural and natural attractions, Wangaratta is an ideal destination for those looking to blend physical achievement with leisurely exploration.

Start your journey with a stroll through Merriwa Park, a serene urban oasis featuring a lagoon teeming with waterbirds. Art enthusiasts should not miss the Wangaratta Art Gallery, housed in a historic building, where a collection of textile art and sculptures reflects the area's cultural heritage. For those who love the outdoors, the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail offers a scenic 95km route perfect for cycling or walking, with breathtaking views of the Victorian Alpine region.

Cultural experiences abound, from the vibrant performances at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre to the historic insights at the Glenrowan Heritage Siege Precinct, site of Ned Kelly’s last stand. Wine lovers will find delight in the nearby King Valley Wine Region, where local wineries offer tastings and gourmet food. For a deeper connection with the land, the Bullawah Cultural Trail provides an enriching self-guided experience celebrating indigenous stories.

Adding to the allure are annual events like the Festival of Jazz & Blues, drawing music lovers each November, and the La Dolce Vita Festival, where Italian cuisine and local wines take center stage. By immersing yourself in these cultural and natural experiences, your visit to Wangaratta promises to be both fulfilling and memorable.