The Blackwood Marathon Relay is a one-of-a-kind, five-discipline event held annually on the last Saturday of October in Western Australia’s stunning Blackwood River Valley.

 

Now in its 46th year, the event began in 1979 as a Bridgetown Rotary initiative to celebrate WA’s 150th anniversary. What started with just 54 teams has grown into one of regional WA’s most enduring grassroots endurance events, bringing together over 600 competitors, spectators, volunteers and supporters each year.

 

The course follows the path of the Blackwood River from Boyup Brook to Bridgetown, covering five disciplines: running, kayaking, swimming, equestrian* and cycling. It’s believed to be the only marathon event in Australia to include a dedicated equestrian leg - a feature that makes it truly unique.

 

Beyond the physical challenge, the Blackwood Marathon is a celebration of community, connection and the incredible landscapes of the South West.

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*Note: The equestrian leg is optional. Teams without a horse rider can still enter in a non-equestrian category.

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THE COURSE OVERVIEW

Spanning 60+ km from Boyup Brook to Bridgetown, the relay course winds through bush tracks, private farmland and river crossings, following the contours of the Blackwood River.

 

Teams of four/five (or Ironman/Ironwoman solo entrants) compete across the following legs:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The day includes a mid-race picnic at Jayes Bridge and a post-event celebration at Bridgetown Sports Ground with food stalls, bar, music and presentations.

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​​​​​​​​​WHO CAN ENTER?

The event welcomes people of ages 14+, with a variety of entry categories to support both competitive and social teams.

 

Entry Categories:

• Ironman / Ironwoman

• Open (Men/Women/Mixed)

• Women’s

• Mixed

• Veteran (Open / Women)

• Super Veterans

• Youth (18 & Under)

 

WHY IT MATTERS

The Blackwood Marathon is more than a race - it’s a regional tradition that draws hundreds of participants, volunteers and spectators to the South West each year.

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Run entirely by volunteers, the event raises funds for the Rotary Club of Bridgetown, supporting youth programs, local causes and community infrastructure.

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But like many regional events, the Marathon faces rising costs and declining participation. We’re on a mission to secure its future with the #To50AndBeyond campaign - aiming to grow support, amplify its legacy and reach 50 years strong.

 

We’re calling on everyone who loves this event, past competitors, volunteers, locals and fans, to help secure its future. Whether you’ve raced once, volunteered every year, or cheered from the sidelines, your story matters.

 

Here’s how you can help:

• Post your Blackwood Marathon story – a photo, a memory, what it means to you.

• Use the hashtag #To50AndBeyond.

• Tag @blackwoodmarathonrelay so we can share it too.

 

Together, let’s build momentum and make sure the Blackwood Marathon reaches 50 years strong and keeps going for generations to come.

 

GOOD TO KNOW

• Start time: 9.00AM sharp

• Dogs: Not allowed on private property or in camping areas

• Veterinary & Ambulance Services: On standby (costs are competitors’ responsibility)

• Horse Care: Horses must be tagged with contact info and monitored throughout

 

Want more event info - visit our FAQs or Event Info pages for the full breakdown.

 

Still have questions? Email us at info@blackwoodmarathon.org