Origins
The Shepparton Marathon was first held on August 23, 1998, marking the beginning of what would become one of Victoria's most enduring and beloved running events. The inaugural race saw 13 dedicated finishers, laying the foundation for a tradition of community and athletic excellence that continues to this day.
Early Years
From its humble beginnings, the marathon steadily grew in popularity. For the first 15 years, the event was based out of the Princes Park club rooms of the Shepparton Runners Club. These early years were characterized by a tight-knit community of local runners and volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure the success and continuity of the marathon.
A New Era
In 2013, the Shepparton Marathon underwent a significant transformation. The event was relocated to the heart of Shepparton, with the start and finish lines moved to the picturesque Victoria Park, featuring the stunning Victoria Park Lake as a backdrop. This strategic relocation not only enhanced the visual appeal of the event but also made it more accessible to participants and spectators alike.
Growth and Expansion
The move to Victoria Park proved to be a catalyst for growth. Between 2013 and 2019, the Shepparton Marathon saw tremendous expansion in both participation and community engagement. The event attracted runners from across Victoria and beyond, establishing itself as a key fixture in the regional running calendar.
Challenges and Resilience
The global events of 2020 and 2021 posed unprecedented challenges for many sporting events worldwide, and the Shepparton Marathon was no exception. The Shepparton Runners Club faced difficult decisions as the pandemic disrupted plans and halted gatherings. Despite these setbacks, the spirit of the marathon community remained unbroken.
A New Beginning
In a bid to revitalize and grow the event, the Shepparton Runners Club decided to pass the baton to Fit City Events in preparation for a re-launch in 2023. This transition marked a new beginning, with Fit City Events bringing fresh energy and innovative ideas to further develop the festival.
Ongoing Legacy
As we continue to research and uncover the full history of the Shepparton Marathon, we are committed to preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of this iconic event. Over time, we aim to fill this page with more interesting anecdotes, achievements, and memories that highlight the marathon's journey from a small local race to a prominent event on Victoria's running calendar.
Join Us in Writing the Next Chapter
We invite you to be a part of the Shepparton Running Festival's ongoing legacy. Whether as a participant, volunteer, or supporter, your involvement helps us build on the rich history of this event and ensures its bright future for years to come.
