Parklands Running Festival

Undulating terrain. Natural beauty. Tough hills nestled in Western Sydney Parklands. The Parklands Running Festival — powered by PARC Fitness — returns to Lizard Log Amphitheatre on Sunday, June 14, 2026. Choose half marathon, 10 km, 5 km, or the 2 km Family Dash. All finishers receive a themed medal, post‑race snacks, sponsor giveaways, and a finisher certificate.

Location & Venue:

• Lizard Log Amphitheatre, Western Sydney Parklands — Cowpasture Road, Abbotsbury NSW (approximately 40 minutes west of Sydney CBD)
• Western Sydney Parklands is one of Australia's largest urban parklands, spanning 5,280 hectares of natural bushland, picnic areas, and walking trails
• The amphitheatre provides a natural bowl for the start/finish area, with spectator viewing from the grassy slopes
• On‑site facilities: parking, toilets, picnic shelters, water fountains, and change rooms

The Course:

• Half marathon, 10 km, and 5 km courses wind through the parklands' undulating terrain
• "Tough hills nestled amongst the terrain" — expect leg‑testing climbs followed by rewarding descents
• Picturesque views of native bushland, grass trees, and local wildlife (kangaroos, wallabies, birds)
• Fully marked course with directional signage and marshals at key turns
• Interactive course maps available on event website (check for GPX downloads)
• 2 km Family Dash: flat, short loop suitable for young children, prams, and grandparents

What's Included:

• Chip timing (all distances except Family Dash — check event page)
• Themed finisher medal (design changes annually — collectible)
• Post‑race snacks (fruit, muesli bars, water, electrolyte drinks)
• Sponsor giveaways in race kits (while stocks last)
• Finisher certificate (downloadable after event)
• Medical support on course
• Portable toilets at start/finish and along the course
• Bag drop at start area (no valuables)
• Age category awards (check event page for specific categories)

Schedule:

• 5:30 AM — Bib collection opens
• 7:00 AM — Half Marathon start
• 7:50 AM — 5 km start
• 8:00 AM — 10 km start
• 9:45 AM — 2 km Family Dash start
• 10:00 AM — Presentation (awards ceremony)

Family Dash (2 km):

• Untimed — no chip
• Open to all ages — parents can run with young children
• Stroller friendly (start at the back)
• Children receive the same themed medal as adult distances
• Perfect introduction to running for kids

Logistics:

• Parking available on site at Lizard Log (follow signage — arrive early, limited spaces)
• Public transport: not directly accessible by train — nearest station is Abbotsbury? Check Transport NSW bus routes to Western Sydney Parklands.
• Bib pickup: race morning from 5:30 AM at the amphitheatre. No pre‑race day pickup mentioned — check event website.
• On‑site registration? Not specified — online registration recommended (closes June 14 at start time).
• No dogs allowed in parklands on race day (service animals excepted).
• Strollers permitted in Family Dash only (start at the back).
• Wheelchair accessibility: contact organizer for specific accommodations — parklands have accessible pathways but hills may be challenging.

Sponsors:

• Presented by PARC Fitness (title sponsor)
• Baysictechnique Physiotherapy (5 km naming sponsor)
• St Martin's Podiatry & Wellness Clinic (2 km naming sponsor)
• Also supported by Greater Sydney Parklands, Streek Training, Athelite

Volunteer Opportunities:

• Course marshals, water station attendants, registration, and finish line support
• Volunteer registration open now via event website

Refund, Transfer & Cancellation Policy:

• Check event website for detailed policy (no refunds, but name transfers may be available)

Contact: Race Hub Australia — phone 0434 287 385.