The Bayside Run Festival is on Sunday 30 May 2027, starting and finishing at Depena Reserve on Russell Avenue, Sandringham. Six events share one stretch of sealed foreshore path on the western shore of Botany Bay: the Bayside Ultra 63K, Marathon 42.2K, Half Marathon 21.1K, the Albie Thomas 10K Run/Walk, a 5K and a 2K.
The long races are built from a single 21.1km out-and-back. It heads north past Ramsgate and Brighton-Le-Sands, through Kyeemagh and up the Cooks River to a turnaround just short of Bestic Street, then comes back past the start area and south through Sandringham to a second turnaround under Captain Cook Bridge. The marathon runs it twice, the ultra three times. Because the path is out-and-back, the three aid stations get passed six times a lap. The marathon has a 7.5-hour cut-off; ultra runners must reach the 42.2km mark inside 5.5 hours. The general public keeps using the path on the day, and the start is rolling, with placings decided on net time.
Albie Thomas was born in Hurstville in 1935, set world records, ran at three Olympics and later spent 18 years as president of St George District Athletic Club. He also ran the old Rockdale Fun Run, which became the Bayside Fun Run. A share of entry fees goes to the Heart Foundation and to St George DAC.
Early-bird prices run until 9 February 2027: $15 for the 2K, $36 for the 5K, $47 for the 10K, $85 for the half, $130 for the marathon and $190 for the ultra, rising in three steps to $235 for a late ultra entry (prices last checked October 2026). Entering by 26 April adds a free t-shirt and mug. The organiser recommends driving. The nearest train station is Kogarah, a rideshare away.
Not to be confused with Melbourne's Brighton Beach Marathon, which runs along Port Phillip Bay.
