The 7Cairns Marathon Festival is back, bigger than ever! This Sunday 14 July, the streets of Cairns will come alive with almost 3,500 participants from around the globe. The event, which has once again sold out, will see runners from 23 countries join thousands of local and regional participants for a day that celebrates both running and community spirit.

This year’s festival has not only attracted a diverse international field but has also seen an overwhelming response from the local community. Participants have rallied together to smash the original fundraising target of $60,000 with current donations soaring past $87,000. This incredible achievement is largely thanks to the inspiring efforts of Cairns local siblings James and Alice Urquhart and Kate Greig, who have collectively raised almost $64,000 for the Shake It Up Foundation.

Adding to the excitement, Mark Beretta from Channel 7’s Sunrise program will be joining the event as an ambassador and participating in the half marathon. His involvement brings additional visibility to the festival.

Jason Crowther, Event Director, expressed his excitement about the event, stating, “The 7Cairns Marathon Festival continues to grow in both size and significance. We are thrilled to welcome participants from across the globe and are incredibly proud of the community’s support and generosity. The funds raised from this event will greatly benefit many local charities, include our major beneficiary Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia, highlighting the true spirit of our participants and the impact we can make together.”

Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia will be the major beneficiary of this year's event. The organization provides essential support and accommodation for families of seriously ill children, helping to keep families close during difficult times.

The marathon will feature a variety of race categories, ensuring there is something for everyone, from elite runners to families and beginners. Local businesses and residents are encouraged to come out and support the runners along the course to create a vibrant and encouraging atmosphere.

For more information about the 7Cairns Marathon Festival, please visit cairnsmarathon.com.au.

The 2024 EVA Air Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival, held on Sunday, August 11, saw record-breaking participation with 12,000 runners taking to the scenic coastal course. Despite initial forecasts predicting rain, the day turned out to be perfect for running, with clear skies and ideal temperatures that contributed to an unforgettable event.

This year’s festival was a resounding success, raising over $200,000 for a range of charities and community groups, including Ronald McDonald House Charities, Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, and Wishlist Sunshine Coast. The event continues to grow in stature, attracting thousands of visitors to the region, which provided a significant economic boost to the Sunshine Coast.

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the Sunshine Coast Marathon had grown into one of our largest mass-participation sporting events.

“We are so pleased to sponsor an event that has such a fantastic global reputation and also supports our local community through its fundraising efforts,” Mayor Natoli said. “Congratulations must go to Atlas Events and the many local businesses and volunteers who supported this event.”

“The Sunshine Coast Marathon delivers a strong economic return for our region. “The estimated economic benefit this year is worth more than $7 million, with half of the participants coming from outside our region.

“Whatever the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic course looks like, our beautiful home will be broadcast around the globe, encouraging others to experience the Sunshine Coast for themselves.

“These opportunities strengthen our economy, now and in the future.”

The marathon saw standout performances, with Rob Collins clinching the men's title in a time of 2:27:51. Tasmanian Milly Clark set a new course record in the women’s marathon, finishing in a blistering time of 2:37:07, averaging 3:43min/km.

Reflecting on her victory, Clark said “I got my rhythm and found my legs and let the race atmosphere take over. It was really good seeing the number of runners out there, it’s incredible how big running is getting. I just love coming up here, I love running here in the warm. I’d like to thank EVA Air, all the volunteers, especially those at the drink stations, they did an awesome job and everyone who cheered; the crowd was just awesome.”

In the half marathon, which also had the added prestige of hosting the Queensland and Australian Half Marathon Championships, Liam Boudin crossed the line first in 1:03:40, while Olympian Lisa Weightman showcased her experience by winning the women’s half marathon in an impressive 1:10:23 over 3 minutes ahead of her nearest rival.

As the Sunshine Coast prepares to host the 2032 Olympics and Paralympic Marathon, the Alexandra Headland location was buzzing with excitement. The event is pivotal in building momentum towards the games, with the marathon festival continuing to grow each year.

Event Director Jason Crowther reflected on the success of this year’s event and the exciting future ahead. “Transitioning to a one-lap marathon course in the next couple of years will be a crucial step in allowing the event to accommodate more participants while maintaining the unique experience that our runners love. This change will enable us to continue growing as we head towards the 2032 Games, further solidifying the Sunshine Coast as a premier destination for world-class events.”

The EVA Air Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.

For media enquiries and high-resolution images please contact:

Jason Crowther – Atlas Events

Phone: 0410 313 551

Email: [email protected]

The EVA Air Brisbane Marathon Festival, held on Sunday, June 2nd, 2024, saw an unprecedented turnout, with a record 10,279 runners participating in the event. The festival, proudly supported by naming rights partner EVA Air, along with the Brisbane Economic Development Agency and Tourism and Events Queensland, proved to be a resounding success, bringing thousands of people to Brisbane and providing a significant boost to the local economy.

The marathon was won by Saeki Makino of Japan, who completed the race in an impressive 2:24:01. Makino had to leave promptly after his victory to catch a flight back to Japan. The female marathon winner was Eve Mure from Tasmania, who crossed the finish line in a commendable 2:54:37. The half marathon event saw event ambassador Tim Vincent break the race record with a phenomenal time of 1:04:07, while Tenille Ellis claimed the women's title in the half marathon with a stellar time of 1:19:03.

The festival featured a range of events catering to runners of all ages and abilities, including the full marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, and a kids' fun run. Participants and spectators alike enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere and the picturesque routes that showcased Brisbane's scenic beauty.

Despite the inner-city rail network closure, which had the potential to cause significant travel disruptions, early communication and planning ensured a seamless experience for all attendees. The proactive measures taken by the event organizers were effective in mitigating any travel issues, allowing everyone to focus on enjoying the day's festivities.

"We are thrilled with the success of this year's EVA Air Brisbane Marathon Festival," said Jason Crowther, Atlas Events Managing Director. "The record number of participants and the outstanding performances, particularly Tim Vincent's incredible half marathon win, made for an unforgettable day. The support from EVA Air, Brisbane Economic Development Agency, Tourism and Events Queensland along with all of our partners was instrumental in making this event a triumph, and we are grateful for their partnership."

Adding to the success, the event has raised over $150,000 for over 200 charities.

The influx of visitors for the marathon festival provided a welcome boost to local businesses, with hotels, restaurants, and retailers experiencing increased patronage. The event not only highlighted Brisbane as a premier destination for sporting events but also demonstrated the city's capability to host large-scale events seamlessly.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said this year’s fantastic turn out is already building excitement for the 2025 event.

“The Eva Air Brisbane Marathon Festival is our city’s premier running event and a highlight of Brisbane’s impressive line-up of major events,“ Cr Schrinner said.

"Set to return for its 33rd year in 2025, the homegrown event helps participants embrace a healthier lifestyle while enjoying the best of Brisbane.

“Events like this one are a big boost to local businesses, attracting visitors from around Australia and beyond who fill our hotels, cafes and restaurants and support our local economy.”

As the sun set on a successful day of running and community celebration, plans are now underway for the 2025 edition of the EVA Air Brisbane Marathon Festival, which will take place on Sunday, June 1st, 2025. Organisers are committed to building on this year's achievements and continuing to enhance the experience for all participants and spectators.

The Brisbane Marathon Festival is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland. For more information, please visit the Brisbane Marathon Festival Website.

For media enquiries and high-resolution images please contact:

Jason Crowther
Atlas Events
EVA Air Brisbane Marathon Festival
Phone: 0410 313 551
Email: [email protected]

The Hobart Airport Marathon Festival is gearing up for a spectacular third edition, with record-breaking numbers expected at the event. With over 2500 participants anticipated, including a significant contingent of 1000 attendees traveling from interstate, this year's festival promises to be the biggest yet. 

Event Director Jason Crowther expressed his enthusiasm for the overwhelming response, citing a substantial increase in participant numbers compared to previous years. "We're thrilled to see such tremendous interest in the Hobart Airport Marathon Festival. The growing enthusiasm highlights the event's reputation as a must-attend occasion for both seasoned athletes and recreational runners alike," remarked Crowther. 

The festival's success can be attributed not only to its growing popularity but also to the ideal running conditions and breathtaking course. Participants can expect a picturesque route, featuring stunning views of Hobart's iconic landmarks, including Constitution Dock, the Derwent River, and Salamanca Wharves. The combination of scenery and an exceptional venue at Constitution Dock creates an unforgettable experience for all involved. 

Beyond the thrill of the race, the Hobart Airport Marathon Festival serves as a significant economic driver for the local community. With projections indicating a return of over $1 million to the Hobart economy, the event contributes substantially to the region's prosperity. 

"We are proud to play a role in supporting the local economy while providing a platform for athletes to showcase their talent and determination. The Hobart Airport Marathon Festival is not just a race; it's a celebration of sport and camaraderie, supporting community, charity and the spirit of Tasmania," added Crowther. 

As the countdown to the festival begins, there is a growing excitment among participants, volunteers, and spectators alike. Whether aiming for a personal best or soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, the Hobart Airport Marathon Festival promises an unforgettable experience for all involved. 

For more information and registration details, visit hobartmarathon.com.au.  

National sporting events company Atlas Events has entered into an exclusive naming rights partnership with award-winning international airline EVA Air for its flagship south east Queensland marathon events.

The strategic partnership, which runs until 2026, includes the Brisbane Marathon Festival and Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival, both of which are on track for another sell-out year.

Atlas Events founder and managing director Jason Crowther highlighted several synergies between the two companies, including a shared commitment to fostering community engagement while promoting healthy, active lifestyles.

“EVA Air has proven itself to be a company that is passionate about connecting communities and promoting health and fitness with a track record of supporting major sporting events, including Taiwan’s second largest running festival,” Mr Crowther said.

“This alignment of values is crucial to Atlas and our mission to deliver accessible and inclusive community sporting events. Since we launched in 2012 as a single-event company, more than 60,000 people have joined us on the start line across our events nationally, improving their health, connecting socially and helping generate funds and awareness for important local causes along the way.”

Each Atlas event is aligned with charitable partners, allowing participants to leverage the occasions as a platform to raise funds for causes close to their hearts. Notably, the Sunshine Coast Marathon has contributed more than $2 million to support local charities and organisations since its establishment in 2012.

Mr Crowther said 2024 was already shaping up to be a bumper year for marathon events with a record number of participants forecast for the Brisbane and Sunshine Coast festivals in June and August respectively.

“There’s been a 40% increase in entries across all our running events in the past month and it’s not just Atlas, we’re also seeing competitor events selling out in record time, which shows that people are prioritising their health and wellbeing more than ever,” he said.

“The magic of a running event extends well beyond athletic performance. They connect people of all ages and abilities, foster a sense of community and social connectivity, and bring visitors to our incredible cities. That’s what makes EVA Air a great fit as they’ve long recognised the value in engaging with diverse communities through running.”

As the exclusive naming partner, EVA Air will bring its global expertise and innovative approach to enhance the overall experience for participants, spectators, and volunteers.

EVA Air's commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility also aligns with Atlas Events’ emphasis on promoting health and wellness while respecting the environment.

General Manager of EVA Air’s Australian branch, Nick Chen acknowledged the partnership with Atlas as one that would help promote their south east Queensland flights while contributing positively to the local community.

“We’ve been flying into Brisbane for 30 years and it’s a global city EVA Air has a great affinity with,” Mr Chen said.

“Our partnership with Atlas Events has been carefully considered. We support the EVA Air Marathon in Taipei and with 24,000 participants we’ve seen first-hand the power mass participation sporting events have on the local community, the health of participants and tourism.

"The Brisbane and Sunshine Coast marathons are renowned for their enjoyable and highly energetic nature. With professional organisation, they exude a contagious carnival atmosphere that is unmatched and unbeatable."

Sunshine Coast Events Board chair John Williams said the partnership was a huge win for the region.

“The long-term partnership with EVA Air presents an exciting opportunity to welcome more international visitors and in turn help boost economic benefits for the Sunshine Coast,” Mr Williams said.

As one of Australia’s premium destinations for hosting and participating in sporting events, Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Matt Stoeckel said events such as the Sunshine Coast Marathon showcased the region across Australia and internationally.

“With a new international aviation partner locked in, the Sunshine Coast Marathon will have the potential to spread its wings further afield,” Mr Stoeckel noted.

“Our international visitor numbers are progressively returning to 2019 levels, and with the Sunshine Coast selected to host events in the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, increased exposure from hosting scenic events such as this will help introduce the region’s outstanding attractions to new audiences around the world.”

Brisbane City Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner acknowledged the city's premier running event, which attracted 7,500 runners in 2023 and is in its 32nd year, was a key feature in Brisbane’s impressive line-up of major events.

“When participants aren’t taking in sights of the city’s iconic Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point Cliffs, they can enjoy our warm winter sunshine, community spirit, and some well-earned respite in our world-class hotels and restaurants,” he said.

“Events like this one are a big boost to local businesses, attracting visitors from Australia and beyond who fill our hotels, cafes and restaurants and support our local economy.”

Pictured: Mark Laforest – Atlas Events Director, Nick Chen – General Manager of EVA Air Australia, and Jason Crowther – Atlas Events Managing Director

About Atlas Events

Atlas Events manages large scale community sporting events that promote affordable opportunities for participants to take part in a healthy and active lifestyle. Founded in 2012 on the Sunshine Coast, Atlas runs events nationally. Each Atlas’ event supports the local community, businesses, tourism industries while raising funds for charities and local community groups. Their events promote a sense of healthy community within a relaxed, enjoyable and professional event environment.
https://myatlasevents.com.au

About EVA Air

EVA Air, Taiwan’s leading independent airline, was formed in 1989 and is a Star Alliance member. EVA Air is part of the respected Evergreen Group and a sister company to global container-shipping leader Evergreen Line. Over more than 30 years of operating international passenger and airfreight flights, EVA has earned a reputation for excellence in its services and safety practices.

Serving Brisbane for 30 years and offering flights to and from the Queensland Capital three days per week, EVA Air serves a global network that connects Asia and Mainland China to Europe, North America and Oceania and links more than 60 major business and tourist destinations.

Atlas Events is delighted to announce that the Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival, a flagship event that has been captivating runners and spectators since its inception in 2012, will once again host the esteemed Australian Half Marathon Championships in 2024. This exciting development reaffirms the festival's status as a premier running event in the region.

Scheduled for Sunday 11 August 2024, the Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival will welcome elite athletes from across the country to compete in the Championships, adding another exciting chapter to the event's history and cementing its reputation as a preferred venue for national competitions.

The inclusion of the Australian Half Marathon Championships again marks a significant milestone for the event, emphasizing its commitment to excellence in distance running and providing a platform for both seasoned and emerging athletes to showcase their talent on a national stage.

Jason Crowther, Managing Director of Atlas Events, expressed his enthusiasm for this ongoing partnership.

"We are honoured to once again host the Australian Half Marathon Championships as part of the Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival in 2024," he said.

"This continued collaboration highlights our dedication to fostering a vibrant and competitive running community and we look forward to welcoming elite athletes and running enthusiasts alike to experience our great event."

Athletics Australia Group General Manager – Delivery and Partnerships, Samantha Culbert, was also excited about the Championships returning to the Sunshine Coast.

"Queensland winter, the Sunshine Coast as a dream destination, a flat fast course and a community festival feel – what a perfect combination for a quality half marathon, and we are excited that this will include the Australian Half Marathon Championship again in 2024," she said.

"We can’t wait to see Australia’s best athletes line up to chase the National Title, and etch their name into the history books."

The Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival has consistently attracted participants from various corners of the globe, offering a picturesque course that winds through stunning coastal scenery, showcasing the natural beauty of the Sunshine Coast.

Participants can expect a well-organised and memorable event, with various race categories catering to runners of all levels, from the seasoned marathoner to the weekend warrior. The festival is not only a celebration of athleticism but also an opportunity for the community to come together.

For more information about the Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival, please visit sunshinecoastmarathon.com.au.

Article by Juliette @_runbroken_ – Atlas Events Ambassador

The course of my life was irrevocably thrown off course in late 2020 after a series of near-death experiences, losing most of my digestive system, spending 6 months straight in hospital, and many many months thereafter on a journey of recovery and re-defining myself in a context of serious ongoing medical issues and relying on a feeding tube placed directly into my stomach through the skin for nutrition. 

I was reduced to ‘patient’, or ‘bed number 20’.

Stripped of almost every important role in my life and being reduced to that of 'patient' or 'bed number 20', I was given the opportunity and time to think about who I wanted to be, what I wanted from life, and to reset some priorities.

I spent significant time feeling like I was at war with a body that caused (and continues to cause) me so much pain. A dear childhood friend, Bec, encouraged me to enter a 5km fun run in July 2023 while she ran a half marathon.

Sometimes the best thing you can do for a friend is talk them into running a race they wouldn’t otherwise consider.

My doctors and treating team had reservations about the wisdom of this plan, and of course their hesitancy made me more determined than ever to give it a try! To be fair, they too demonstrated courage through their willingness to support me to give it a go and to actively help me minimise risks to the extent possible.

Amid the medical drama, this is a story of friendship too. Sometimes the best thing you can do for a friend is talk them into entering a random running race, enthusiastically cheer them to the finish line you always knew they could cross, and watch the course of their lives change for the better. 

I will never forget that race day. We were all being called 'athletes' over the loudspeaker as we were lining up in our respective starting zones, and that day, I replaced 'patient' with 'runner', and it stuck. 

That day I replaced ‘patient’ with ‘runner’, and it stuck.

The single minded joy of putting one foot in front of the other to achieve a goal, and working WITH my broken body to get across that finish line in a time of 38:41 was an amazing feeling. I joined Parkrun the week after, and achieved 10 PBs in 15 ParkRuns (my 5km PB is now 23:29). 

The single minded joy of putting one foot in front of and working WITH my broken body was an amazing feeling. 

I was the second woman across the line at Brisbane's RiverRun 5km, finished in the top 5% of all women at the Bridge to Brisbane 10km (a time of 51:35), and I won a gold medal at the Maryborough Master's Games 5km event last month in my regional home town. 

What made the Bridge to Brisbane especially memorable was that I was able to keep the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital in view on the horizon while I ran throughout much of the course.

There was a time, not long ago, when I wasn't expected to leave that building alive. Running, and feeling strong and alive, while I kept my eye on the helipad where I had landed in such critical condition and the 9th floor of the building I called home for many months, was an incredibly powerful experience.

I was able to keep the Royal Brisbane & Women’s Hospital in view while I ran – a building that not long ago, I was not expected to leave alive.

I am fuelled by tube-feeds, chocolate, and the sheer joy of running, but I also love accumulating medal bling and proving to myself and everyone who cares that my body can do something no one thought it could. 

I love proving to myself and everyone who cares that my body can do something no one thought it could. 

The mind is an incredibly powerful thing when you use it to harness the inherent capabilities of your amazing human body! This is why I run! It repeatedly reminds me I am not completely broken despite the daily challenges of managing a complex health condition and tube-feeding. 

Through running I have learned that I am tenacious and strong and sometimes I am fast! When I run, my PTSD and self-doubt are quiet. My body and I call a truce while we work together to get across the finish line. Nothing feels better than this.

My body and I call a truce while we work together to get across the finish line.

I want to run my first half marathon in April, then another in May, to prepare to run my first full marathon in July 2024. Other than this, I plan to get involved in as many running events as possible. 

I’m planning on doing either the half or the 10km at the Brisbane Marathon Festival in June, and the Sunshine Coast Half Marathon in August. If I can get the funds together to travel to the Hobart Airport Marathon Festival and the 7 Cairns Marathon Festival, I would love to tackle these events too.

I’d love to be able to run all four of the major Atlas Events this year in Hobart, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast & Cairns.

2024 will be a pivotal year in my running journey as it will be the year my treating medical team and I will have to problem solve and trouble-shoot a range of challenges related to being a tube-fed runner. 

Maintaining nutritional stability, keeping my electrolytes in check and finding the best logistical and equipment solutions to carrying a feeding pump and feeds with me while running longer distances are key goals for me.

Determination, persistence, and a sprinkle of delusion are the secret ingredients to winning the mental game of enduring hard things! Don't lose yourself in adversity - use it to find yourself!

The Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival is proud to announce a momentous milestone in its fundraising efforts, having raised over $2 million since its inception in 2012.

In celebration of this achievement and the spirit of giving, Atlas Events hosted a recent fundraising announcement lunch, where they handed over more than $50,000 to the two major beneficiaries of the 2023 event, Ronald McDonald House Charities SEQ and Westpac Rescue Helicopters.

The Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival, one of Australia's premier running events, has consistently showcased its commitment to supporting important causes and making a difference in the community.

Over the past decade, the event has brought together thousands of participants, volunteers and spectators, all united by the common goal of making a positive impact.

Event Director, Atlas Events Managing Director Jason Crowther, explained the importance placed on the Sunshine Coast Marathon festival being an event that gives back.

"The Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival has always been about more than just running; it's about bringing people together to support important causes," he said.

"We are thrilled to announce this record-breaking achievement and look forward to handing over more than $50,000 to Ronald McDonald House Charities SEQ and Westpac Rescue Helicopters, two organisations that do incredible work for our community."

Ronald McDonald House Charities CEO Emma Thompson was appreciative of the support.

“We are so grateful to be one of the charity partners for this year’s Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival and congratulate everyone involved for such an incredible achievement. With this generous support we can continue our mission of supporting the ever-changing needs of seriously ill or injured children and their families.”

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service, Chief Pilot, Paul Gibson, also expressed his appreciation.

“The fundraising and ongoing support received from both Westpac and the Sunshine Coast Marathon is vital in equipping our crew so they can continue to perform their jobs,” he said.

“For example, it can cost approximately $10,000 to outfit one crew member with uniforms, helmets and safety equipment therefore, every dollar counts.

"We are extremely grateful to have the continued support from our partners and also the local community.”

For more information about the Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival, please visit sunshinecoastmarathon.com.au.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Jason Crowther
Managing Director
[email protected]

Hundreds of swimmers will take to the surf on Saturday 28 October as the 2023 Ocean Swim Series arrives at Mooloolaba Beach.

Following the success of last year’s inaugural ‘Swim Mooloolaba’, the event has returned with two new locations and an impressive prize pool.

Mooloolaba Beach will provide a vibrant atmosphere and picturesque environment for the 750m, 1.5km and 3km swim distances that will be contested.

Event Director, Atlas Events Managing Director Jason Crowther, said the Ocean Swim Series has generated hype from swimmers across South East Queensland.

“Local swimmers, triathletes and surf lifesavers of all abilities have really embraced the introduction of the three-part series, and with the stunning Sunshine Coast locations hosting each event, it’s not hard to see why,” he said.

“The series provides a great opportunity for more seasoned athletes to battle for some incredible prizes, while also welcoming casual swimmers to test themselves over their choice of distance.

“It’s great to see so many people wanting to be fit and healthy and looking for ways to challenge themselves, for most participants it’s not about winning but about taking part and having fun."

Up to 500 swimmers are expected to take part in the event.

Online entries for the Mooloolaba Ocean Swim close on Thursday 26 October at 5pm.

The final event of the series is scheduled to take place on Saturday18 November at Noosa Main Beach. Further information can be found at oceanswimseries.com.au.

Mark your calendars for the 2024 Hobart Airport Marathon Festival, happening on Sunday, April 7th.

Whether you're an experienced marathoner or a first-time participant, the Hobart Airport Marathon Festival has something for everyone. You can choose from a range of distances, including the full marathon, half marathon, 10km run, and 5km run/walk or 2km mini marathon, you can pick the event that best suits your fitness level and goals.

To stay up to date with all the latest event information, including when entries open and important updates, join the official Facebook event.