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Big success for first running festival

September 21, 2026 6:24 am in by
Image - Aaron Collins

More than six thousand people have hit the pavement as part of the first Geelong running festival.

The competitors across six events, while spectators and supporters led to close to 10 thousand people being a part of the weekend.

It also saw more than 160 thousand dollars has been raised for charity.

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Race director Lee Troop proud of the event.

“This weekend has been many years in the making and I’m incredibly proud that we’ve been able to showcase Geelong in this way and to welcome over 6,000 participants to our city and this event,” he said.

“For me this event is about more than running, it’s about building community and giving back. I’m proud that we have been able to raise $167,809 for more than 300 charities, with $75,000 going to our 13 charity partners.”

Colm Fitzgerald writing his name into the record books by winning the first marathon in two hours and 22 minutes.

Barwon Heads’ Sarah James winning the women’s marathon.

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Troop says he’s excited to return next year.

“I am grateful for the support of all our sponsors and of State and Local Government for believing in our vision and to have been able to deliver such an incredible event,” he said.

“Congratulations to all our race winners and to everyone who participated and gave it their all. We cannot wait to bring the Geelong Running Festival back in 2027.”

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