What’s happening
Mackay has lifted its profile as a running hotspot after organisers of the BMA Mackay Marina Run unveiled new cash bonuses for race records across the 21.1km half marathon, 10km and 5km events. The move puts the regional event among the most lucrative in Australia. The Isuzu Ute 21.1km Half Marathon now carries a total prize pool of up to $7,500 if the race record is broken.
Why it matters
The upgraded bonus is aimed at drawing more elite runners to Mackay. Event director Tim Magoffin said the new offer is the highest half marathon bonus in Queensland that they know of. He added that the flat and fast course gives runners a real chance of breaking records next year.
Local impact
The event supports the Leukaemia Foundation through the funds raised. It also strengthens Mackay’s role as a destination for serious runners preparing for major races.
By the numbers
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The Isuzu Ute 21.1km Half Marathon offers a possible $7,500 if a record is broken, giving runners a rare cash incentive.
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Records fell in the 10km and 5km categories in 2025, showing how fast the Mackay course can be.
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The current half marathon mark stands at 01:04:42, held by Liam Boudin, giving runners a clear target.
Zoom in
Event director Tim Magoffin said: “The bonus is the highest offered for a half marathon in Queensland that we know of. We’re very interested in attracting more elite athletes to Mackay and cementing our position as one of the best destination running events in Australia. We’re putting up the cash to support that strategy and it’s certainly significant. With temperate running conditions and a flat and fast course, there’s a very real possibility that the new record bonuses will be awarded next year. That will be very tempting for serious runners.”
Olympian and event ambassador Benita Willis said the bonus changes the game for elite runners. She said: “The new race record bonus is definitely a game changer. It gives a great incentive to come to Mackay to run in the first place but will also motivate runners to chase their best once there. For a regional event like this to offer up that sort of bonus sends a clear message, the organisers are serious about attracting top athletes who want to compete and who want to push the pace. Mackay offers runners the perfect mix, a great precursor run prior to the GC Marathon, a flat and fast course that’s definitely one of a kind and a very tangible cash reward that recognises excellence. It should prove very enticing for elite runners.”
Zoom out
Interest in regional running events continues to climb as athletes seek fast courses and strong prize pools outside major cities. Mackay’s new bonus structure positions the event alongside some of the most attractive races in Australia.
What to look for next
The next BMA Mackay Marina Run will be held on Sunday 7 June 2026. Early bird registrations open 2 January 2026 through mackaymarinarun.com. Runners will be watching for whether the half marathon, 10km or 5km records fall again.
