The Early Years
2012Established in 2012, the Melbourne Half Marathon is now 14 years old. From its first edition in Melbourne, it has evolved into a race that reflects the character of its host region in Australia.
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Course & Elevation
The Melbourne Half Marathon features a scenic inner-city course that showcases Melbourne's iconic landmarks including the Yarra River, Parks, and vibrant streets. The predominantly flat route winds through the CBD, along the Yarra, and through some of Melbourne's most picturesque neighbourhoods, making it ideal for fast times. The course is fully closed to traffic with excellent crowd support throughout.
Surface: road Profile: Flat
Weather
Temperature 13°C
Humidity 65%
Rain Chance 35%
Cool winter conditions in Melbourne during June with mild temperatures ideal for running. Expect variable weather with occasional rain, requiring layers and possible wind from Port Phillip Bay.
The Race
Melbourne
Race Lore
The Course Record
2019The fastest time ever recorded at the Melbourne Half Marathon is 01:01:08, set by Gideon Kipketer in 2019. Every year, new contenders line up hoping to challenge that mark on the streets of Melbourne.
The Fast Lane
Runners come to the Melbourne Half Marathon for one reason: personal bests. The flat, fast course through Melbourne has a reputation as a PB factory, with the roads seemingly designed to keep your pace honest and your splits consistent from start to finish.
Where It Begins
For thousands of runners each year, the Melbourne Half Marathon is their first half marathon. The combination of a forgiving course, generous time limits, and supportive crowds has earned this race a reputation as the place where marathon journeys begin. The first-timer energy on race morning is palpable.
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Course Record
01:01:08
Gideon Kipketer (2019)
Registration
Registration Opens February
Registration Closes May
Entry Cost AUD$85-$125
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Fun Facts
- ▸ The race attracts over 22,000 participants annually, making it one of Australia's largest half marathons.
- ▸ The course passes through all of Melbourne's major parks including the Royal Botanic Gardens and Treasury Gardens.
- ▸ The race supports the Reach Foundation, contributing hundreds of thousands of dollars to youth programs across Victoria.
- ▸ Melbourne's cool winter conditions in June provide optimal running temperatures compared to summer Australian marathons.
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