The Ballot for the 42.195km Nike Melbourne Marathon is NOW OPEN
At the Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival, we are committed to continually improving the event experience and creating more opportunities for participants. We are in ongoing discussions with governing authorities to elevate the event to new levels and meet the ever-growing demand for participation.
Following an extensive operational review, we are implementing enhancements including expanded road access, extended occupancy hours, and improved crowd management strategies. These upgrades now enable us to increase the capacity of the 42.195km Nike Melbourne Marathon while maintaining the highest standards for our runners. As a result, over 2,000 additional places will be made available in this ballot.
Please note: The Half Marathon remains at capacity, and no ballot will be held for this event at this time.
FAQS:
- How does the ballot work?
- The number of registrations in this ballot have been developed in conjunction with the relevant governing agencies and sophisticated crowd science modelling based on the available space at the start and finish lines and along the course. Some of these areas have been altered recently to accommodate a greater number of entries. Once the ballot opens, you’ll have a set window to submit your entry. If selected, you’ll receive a successful confirmation email once the ballot closes.
- Does it matter when I join the ballot?
- No, the time you enter the ballot does not affect your chances. All entries, regardless of when they are submitted within the ballot period, have an equal opportunity of being selected.
- Is there a fee to enter the ballot?
- No, you are not charged to enter the ballot. We require payment information to help verify your identity and to use in case you are selected – the registration fee is charged only if you are successful.
- When will I know if I’ve secured a spot?
- All successful entrants will be notified shortly after the ballot closes. If you are selected in the ballot you will be alerted via email. You will also receive an additional email with the order confirmation with your purchased registration. Your registration will be provided in accordance with the terms and conditions of the event.
- Will there be another chance to enter?
- Yes, we will run a second and final ballot in July for any spots that become available due to withdrawals and release-backs. However, the number of registrations are not known at this time but we do expect the number of spots available in the July ballot will be limited.
