Cross country running is set for a significant boost, with the Victorian Government confirming a three-year partnership for Ballarat to host the Australian Athletics Cross Country Championships.
The investment from Sport and Recreation Victoria will see 'The Golden City' play host to the annual Championships from 2025 through to 2027, reinforcing the city's status as a premier destination for distance running and sport.
The 2025 Australian Athletics Cross Country Championships will be held from August 23-24, and serve as a key event in the national athletics calendar, that provides a truly diverse offering of national competition.
The celebration of running will see athletes in age groups Under 11 through to Masters compete together on the fast and technical course at Victoria Park, allowing for the entire Australian athletics community to embrace Ballarat's rich history in distance running over three years.
Australian Athletics CEO Simon Hollingsworth welcomed the announcement, highlighting the importance of cross country within the Australian athletics family.
"This commitment from the Victorian Government and Sport and Recreation Victoria is incredible for cross country running in Australia," Hollingsworth said.
"Ballarat has long been a hub for distance running, with one of our greatest endurance athletes in Steve Moneghetti hailing from the city. Securing the Australian Athletics Cross Country Championships for three consecutive years provides certainty for athletes, coaches and fans, while elevating the profile of the discipline."
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulous said the Victorian Government was proud to host the country's best distance runners and support a sport that showcases Victoria's world-class sporting infrastructure.
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves said securing the event was a coup for the city.
"We know how passionate Ballarat's running community is and we are thrilled to secure a running event of this magnitude," she said.
"Victoria Park has become a genuine sporting destination in recent times and we can't wait to see it come alive for another sporting event."
The 2025 Australian Athletics Cross Country Championships will form part of the Chemist Warehouse Winter Series, with the full winter calendar to be released in the following months.
