Chasing the Dawn: Stockton Sunrise Run 2026 on Newcastle’s Foreshore

Stockton Sunrise Run

As the sky glows pink and gold over the Hunter River, runners and walkers will lace up for one of regional New South Wales’ most scenic summer events. The Stockton Sunrise Run returns on Saturday, 31 January 2026, inviting participants to experience Stockton’s spectacular foreshore at first light as part of the Island Triathlon Festival weekend.

Set in the relaxed coastal suburb of Stockton, this event blends fitness, travel and destination appeal, making it a standout for active travellers and locals alike.

A Coastal Course Designed for Speed and Scenery

The Stockton Sunrise Run is known for its fast, flat and accessible course, making it ideal for beginners, seasoned runners and anyone chasing a personal best. The route follows mostly concrete paths along the Stockton Foreshore, offering uninterrupted water views and cooling sea breezes.

With minimal elevation and wide pathways, the course supports both competitive running and social participation, encouraging walkers and runners to enjoy the journey as much as the finish line.

Distances for Every Runner

Stockton Sunrise Run

Participants can choose from three popular distances, each designed to suit different fitness levels and goals. The 5 kilometre option covers a half lap of the course, perfect for casual runners and walkers. The 10.5 kilometre event completes one full lap, offering a balanced challenge, while the 21.1 kilometre half marathon spans two laps for endurance runners seeking a longer test.

This variety makes the Stockton Sunrise Run an inclusive event that attracts a broad mix of participants from across the region and beyond.

Part of the Island Triathlon Festival Weekend

Held alongside the Island Triathlon Festival, the Stockton Sunrise Run adds to a weekend celebrating sport, wellness and outdoor adventure. Visitors can combine the event with other festival activities, coastal walks and local dining, turning race weekend into a short coastal getaway.

Stockton’s proximity to Newcastle makes it easy to access while still offering a quieter, beachside atmosphere that appeals to travellers seeking something beyond the city.

Event Hub at Griffith Park East

The event headquarters is based at Griffith Park East, a spacious foreshore park that provides a relaxed setting for race-day activities. Its waterfront location allows participants and spectators to soak in the sunrise atmosphere before and after the run.

The park’s open layout makes it easy to gather, warm up and celebrate finishes, reinforcing the friendly and community-focused feel of the event.

Why the Stockton Sunrise Run Is Worth the Trip

Combining coastal scenery, a flat and fast course and the energy of a festival weekend, the Stockton Sunrise Run has become a highlight on the regional running calendar. It offers a rare chance to experience Newcastle’s harbour and beaches at dawn, when the light is soft and the shoreline is at its most peaceful.

For active travellers, it is an ideal excuse to explore Stockton, enjoy the outdoors and start the day with purpose and movement.

Stockton Sunrise Run

Date: Saturday, 31 January 2026
Location: Griffith Park East, Stockton, NSW
Event Type: Run and Walk on road, path and park surfaces
Distances: 5km, 10.5km,  21.1km Half Marathon
Organiser: H Events https://www.runningcalendar.com.au/event/stockton-sunrise-run/

For event information, registration and updates, visit the official event website or follow H Events on social media channels.

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