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Great Ocean Road Running Festival 2025 - Everything You Need To Know!
The Ultimate Guide to the Great Ocean Road Running Festival in 2025
The Great Ocean Road Running Festival is one of Australia’s most scenic and exciting running events, taking place annually along the stunning Great Ocean Road, it offers something for every runner, whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a casual participant looking for a fun experience. The GOR Running Festival has got you covered.
When is the Great Ocean Road Running Festival in 2025?
The 2025 Great Ocean Road Running Festival will be held on May 17-18, 2025, and features nine race distances ranging from the 1.5km Kids’ Gallop to the challenging 60km Ultra Marathon.
This event is not just about the race, but also about the festival atmosphere, which includes yoga sessions, live music, and even a kite-flying festival. The scenic beauty of the Great Ocean Road is an integral part of the experience, as runners trot along the iconic coastal route with ocean views and beautiful surroundings.
This is a staple on the running calendar for thousands of runners across the country for good reason. It's fun, beautiful and offers a magnificent (and at times challenging) course.
Course Details
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Ultra Marathon (60km): Begins in Lorne and takes runners through a breathtaking coastal route. Be prepared for multiple types of terrain.
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Marathon: Also starting in Lorne, this race winds along the road to Apollo Bay. Mostly paved road.
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Half Marathon: Starts at Kennett River and is ideal for those wanting a shorter, yet challenging distance. If you're on the fence, this is a fun one to do.
- Shorter events include the 14km Paradise Run, 6km Run, 12km Trail Run, and the family-friendly Kids’ Gallop.
The marathon course is known for its undulating terrain, with a mix of hills and flat sections. Aid stations are strategically placed throughout the course, providing water and electrolyte-based drinks.
Registration & Fees
Registration fees vary depending on the event, with early bird rates available for those who sign up early. For example, the marathon entry fee is AUD 150, which includes a race bib with a timing chip, safety pins, and a finisher’s medal. Make sure to register ahead of time to secure your spot as the event often sells out - I can attest based on a personal experience of missing out!
Expected Participants
The event draws over 10,000 participants from across Australia and around the world. With a variety of distances, the festival appeals to both competitive runners and recreational participants.
The Great Ocean Road is iconic, so it's no surprise that this event draws people from all over the world to experience it.
Finisher's Medals & Prizes
All finishers receive a custom-designed medal, with special prizes awarded to the top finishers in each race. For the marathon, the top three male and female finishers are awarded cash prizes, with the winner receiving 3000 bucks!
Festival Activities
Beyond the races, the festival offers plenty of activities to enjoy. You can participate in beachside yoga, enjoy live music performances, and get amongst the village with many different retailers and activations on show.
Travel & Accommodation
Many participants take advantage of the weekend by staying in nearby towns like Apollo Bay, Lorne, Anglesea or Wye River, where glamping options and traditional accommodations are available. If you're traveling from Melbourne, take advantage of the beautiful scenery on the way down and stop off at the viewing points along the Great Ocean Road.
Tips for Runners
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Train for Hills: The course is hilly, especially in the marathon and ultra marathon events. Incorporate hill training into your routine to prepare for the terrain. Quite a few runners finish the race and the first thing they say is 'Geez, didn't realise there were so many hills!'. This is your official notice!
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Hydrate Early: Drink stations are placed every few kilometers, but carrying your own hydration system is recommended, especially for the longer distances. Consider something like the Runly R700 Hydration Vest.
- Enjoy the Scenery: Sounds obvious, but don’t forget to soak in the beautiful ocean views! The Great Ocean Road is closed to vehicles during the race, making it an exclusive experience for runners. It's really something special. If you're not too concerned about breaking records, it's worth slowing down at parts and enjoying it.
Sustainability at the Great Ocean Road Running Festival
The Great Ocean Road Running Festival is dedicated to reducing its environmental impact. Recyclable race bibs and timing chips are used, and participants are encouraged to dispose of waste properly at designated stations.
To cut down on plastic use, runners are asked to bring reusable bottles, with refill stations available. The festival also partners with eco-friendly organisations and promotes carpooling and shuttle services to lower its carbon footprint. By participating, runners contribute to preserving the beautiful Great Ocean Road environment.
Running events across the world are encouraging runners to bring their own hydration systems to avoid the need for plastic cups, which contribute a significant amount of plastic waste.
Health & Safety at the Event
The health and safety of participants are a top priority at the Great Ocean Road Running Festival, as it is for most events. Medical stations are placed along the course with trained staff, while volunteers and officials provide support throughout the event.
Additional hygiene measures, such as extra sanitation stations, have been introduced where needed. Runners are encouraged to carry basic first aid supplies, and pacers and sweepers assist at various race paces. Pre-event briefings ensure all participants are aware of health and safety protocols.
The Great Ocean Road Running Festival is more than just a race—it's an unforgettable experience for runners of all levels. Truly. Whether you're pushing for a personal best or simply running for the joy of it, this event will leave you with top memories. Organise a group and make it a great weekend.
