RUNNER’S SPRINT TO TAKE PART IN THE LARGEST RUNNING EVENT IN WOLLONGONG

The clouds cleared to reveal a stunning morning for over 2,000 runners to race in the McGrath Wollongong Running Festival.

Wollongong, NSW: Thousands of runners pounded the pavement this morning at the McGrath Wollongong Running Festival.

Runners from across Australia took part in the sell-out event, with more than 2,000 registering in either the 2km, 5km, 10km or half marathon.

The scenic, mixed terrain course was set along Wollongong’s coastline, with the start and finish lines located in Stuart Park. Throughout the course, runners passed stunning ocean views of North and South beach, iconic Wollongong landmarks such as the Flagstaff Hill Lighthouse and the lush coastal nature reserve of Puckey's Estate.

Greg Frost took the win for the men’s Illawarra Credit Union 10km event with a time of 00:33:13, two minutes ahead of Russell Dessaix-Chin in second and Brodie Talbot in third. 

It was event ambassador and local Olympian Madeline Heiner who claimed first place in the women’s Illawarra Credit Union 10km category, with Sophie Iacovelli and Melissa Jefferis rounding out the podium. 

The Ericom Half Marathon saw over 900 runners cross the starting line. For the men’s, it was Brad Croker who crossed the finish line first at 1:10:59, with Alexander Seal and Samuel Jones following minutes behind. Laura McGrath took the victory for the women’s with 1:26:36, leading almost three minutes ahead of Georgie McBride and Keira Germech. 

The SAVVY Mark Scott 5km was won by Isaac Shaw who covered the distance in just 00:15:50, almost three minutes ahead of Axel Comer and Luke Barrit. Katie Mahoney won the women’s 5km at 00:18:47, followed by Michelle Orourke and Capri Vidler. 

First place in the boys category in the Peoplecare Kids 2km Fun Run was won by Archie Galvin in a speedy ​​00:07:08, tailed closely behind by Kurtis Brown and Channing Taylor. Jasmine Corbett took home the win for the girls with 00:08:03, a minute ahead of Lila Harrison and Annabel Constable. 

The McGrath Wollongong Running Festival rewarded all runners who crossed the finish line today with a commemorative medal. Runners have also been invited to register in the 2025 event, with registrations already opening for next year’s event. 

All race results can be viewed here: https://thetimingguysresults.com/wollongongrunningfestival/2024

For media enquiries please contact Kara Agostinho via phone on 0448 181 107, or via email at kara.agostinho@provum.com.