South East Queensland's biggest road races are fantastic spectacles and true destination races.
We really are spoiled for choice of road races in, so we've made a list of the 5 biggest road races in our corner of the state that are well worth running once for a fun day out or finding that PB.
1. Gold Coast Marathon
ASICS Gold Coast Marathon
When: July
Where: Gold Coast
Participants: Over 27,000 runners across multiple events
Why it stands out: The Asics Gold Coast Marathon is known as one of Australia's premier marathons and offers one of the flattest, and most scenic courses along the iconic coastline. The event includes a full marathon, half marathon, 10km, 5km, and junior dashes, as well as wheel chair events with marathon, 10km and 5km distances. This is a huge road race event attracting international athletes and recreational runners alike.
The cooler winter weather, huge crowds of cheering spectators and a flat, fast course is a good opportunity for you to run a great time.
2. Bridge to Brisbane
Bridge to Brisbane
When: September
Where: Brisbane
Participants: Approximately 35,000 runners
Why it stands out: The Bridge to Brisbane is one of Queensland's largest fun runs, featuring 10km and 5km courses that allow runners to race along closed roads from the Gateway Bridge into the Brisbane Showgrounds. The event emphasises community spirit, is inclusive of all running abilities and supports raising funds for local charities.
Be warned: this one sells out fast.
3. Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival
EVA Air Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival
When: August
Where: Alexandra Headland, Sunshine Coast
Participants: Over 12,000 runners
Why it stands out: The Bridge to Brisbane Known for its scenic coastal course, the festival offers a full marathon, half marathon, 10km, and 5km events. In 2024, the event raised over $200,000 for charity, highlighting its community impact.
4. Brisbane Marathon Festival
EVA Air Brisbane Marathon Festival
When: June
Where: Brisbane CBD
Participants: Around 10,000 runners across multiple events
Why it stands out: The Brisbane Marathon Festival is a two lap course starting and finishing in the city's botanical gardens. The course showcases Brisbane's landmarks, including the Story Bridge and South Bank, providing a picturesque urban running experience. Brisbane Marathon Festival offers a full marathon, half marathon, 10km, 5km and junior 2km Mini Marathon events.
5. Asics Runaway Noosa Marathon
ASICS Runaway Noosa Marathon
When: May
Where: Noosa
Participants: Around 7,000 runners across multiple events
Why it stands out: The Asics Runaway Noosa Marathon event offers a flat, fast course of laps of the scenic streets of Noosa Heads. With distances including a full marathon, half marathon, 10km, and 5km, it's a popular choice for runners seeking a coastal race experience, and the lapped course means that you're never far from supporting spectators. Flat, fast and friendly. We suggest you make a weekend of it.
