Run Shellharbour
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Event Details
About This Event
Bi-annual running festival designed for speed with spectacular coastal views. Suitable for all ages and abilities featuring flat, fast courses along the Shellharbour coastline.
Course Description
Run Shellharbour offers spectacular flat, fast courses along the stunning NSW South Coast. The 42.2km Marathon is a two-lap course with uninterrupted coastal views for almost its entirety, making it one of Australia's most scenic marathon routes. The Half Marathon covers the same spectacular course once, whilst the 10km and 5km distances showcase the best sights of the Shellharbour coastline. All courses follow public footpaths and roads, with drink stations positioned every 2.5km supplying water and energy drinks. The relatively flat terrain makes these courses achievable for runners of all abilities, whilst the coastal setting provides constant motivation and breathtaking scenery from start to finish at Eric Creary Park.
Quick Facts
Getting There
The event is located at Eric Creary Park on the north side of Shellharbour Surf Lifesaving Club, 115 Junction Road, Shellharbour. Off-street parking is available around the event village, though entry and exit times are restricted due to road closures. The organisers encourage local participants to walk or bike to the event. Public toilets and facilities are available throughout the course. Plan to arrive early for registration and baggage drop, and check the interactive course map on the official website for detailed parking information.
Weather & What to Pack
May in coastal NSW brings mild autumn conditions, perfect for distance running. Expect temperatures ranging from 11-20°C, with crisp mornings warming as the day progresses. The coastal location may bring sea breezes, so layers are recommended for pre-race warm-up. Rainfall is moderate in May, averaging 90-100mm for the month. Pack sunscreen despite cooler temperatures, as UV levels remain moderate. The flat coastal course offers little shade, so a cap and sunglasses are advisable. Hydration stations every 2.5km will keep you refreshed throughout your race.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to bring on race day?
Bring your e-ticket or photo ID (Service NSW App ID accepted) to collect your race bib and timing chip at registration. Junior runners must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Personal belongings can be stored in the baggage area using numbered tags - bring your own bag marked with your race bib number.
Are there drink stations on the course?
Yes, drink stations are positioned approximately every 2.5km on each course, staffed by volunteer groups. They supply water and Dragon Fuel energy drink containing essential amino acids and electrolytes. Bins are available at each aid station for gel wrappers. Hydration is also available at the finish zone.
Can I run with my child in a pram or with my dog?
Children in prams are welcome in the 5km fun run and must be registered individually along with an adult. Both participants must wear race bibs. Unfortunately, pets, bicycles, scooters, skateboards, and roller blades are not permitted in any distance due to safety concerns on the public footpaths and roads.
What medals and awards are given?
All finishers receive unique finisher medals. Additionally, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place medals are awarded in each age category for the 5km, 10km, Half Marathon, and Marathon distances. Results are available live during the race via QR code, allowing family and friends to track your progress across timing mats.
What is the refund policy if I can't participate?
Refunds must be requested via email to info@runshellharbour.com.au. More than 8 weeks before the event: 75% refund. Between 4-7 weeks: 50% refund. Within 4 weeks: no refund. Distance transfers to shorter distances receive no refund for the price difference. Upgrades to longer distances require payment of the difference plus processing fees if space is available.
Last updated: 26 December 2025
