First Light Marathon

The event features a scenic course that showcases Gisborne’s stunning coastline and lush hills. Starting from Midway Beach, participants in the marathon and half-marathon will encounter a varied terrain, including single-track trails and road sections. Both distances begin with a series of short, steep hills that lead runners out of the city.

Half-marathon participants will navigate a loop that winds through the hills, returning toward the city. In contrast, marathon runners will extend their journey to Wainui Beach, where they will traverse approximately 1km of sandy beach alongside the ocean. After this stretch, they will face additional challenging climbs through the hills before returning to Gisborne for the finish.

For those seeking a shorter distance, the 6km Fun Run offers a flat loop within Gisborne and concludes with a return along the boardwalk, finishing in front of the Midway Surf Club.

The atmosphere is characterized by local community involvement, with support from residents and volunteers enhancing the experience for both international and local participants. This event is organized by Albatros Adventure Marathons, reflecting a blend of competitive spirit and camaraderie among runners.