HBF Run for a Reason

Perth, we need to talk about how good your running event is. The HBF Run for a Reason is one of Western Australia's biggest and most beloved fun runs, drawing tens of thousands of participants through the heart of the CBD each year — and raising over $2 million for charity while they're at it. Not bad for a Sunday morning run.

The courses

There are three distances to choose from, all starting on the corner of Hay Street and William Street right in the Perth CBD, and finishing at Gloucester Park:

• CommBank 3km — perfect for families, kids, and anyone who wants the t-shirt and medal without the suffering. No judgement.
• Specsavers 12km — the crowd favourite. This one takes you along the freeway, through the Northbridge Tunnel (yes, the actual tunnel, without any cars), and across the Causeway. It's a genuinely unique urban running experience.
• Brooks Half Marathon (21.1km) — the serious option. You'll run along scenic Mounts Bay Road, through the Northbridge Tunnel, and across the Causeway before looping back to Gloucester Park. Flat, fast, and a fantastic course for a half marathon PB attempt.

It's about more than running

The 'Run for a Reason' name isn't just marketing fluff — this event is a genuine fundraising powerhouse, raising millions of dollars for over 350 charities each year. When you register, you can choose a charity to run for and set up a fundraising page. It's one of those events that feels good on multiple levels.

This one sells out

All three distances sell out in advance — so if you're planning to run, get in early. Registration typically opens several months before the event and closes the Friday before race day (or earlier if sold out).

Race day tips

• Take public transport — it's free. One of the best perks of this event: all participants get free travel on Transperth services until 3pm on race day. Just show your bib. Leave the car at home.
• Arrive early. Give yourself at least 45 minutes before your wave start to get to the starting area. The Perth CBD on race morning gets busy.
• Sunscreen. Even in autumn, the CBD course is exposed with limited shade. Slap some on.
• Bring the kids. The 3km is family-friendly and a great first race experience for little ones.

Whether you're there for the running, the fundraising, or the excuse to run through a road tunnel — the HBF Run for a Reason is a Perth institution worth being part of.