Event Overview
The Copperlode Cup is an annual 15km running event in Cairns, Queensland, held on Sunday 16 August 2026. Organised by the Cairns Road Runners, the race starts at the bottom gate on Lake Morris Road and finishes one-way at Copperlode Dam. The event has been staged for more than 30 years. In 2026, athletes can enter as a solo run or as a relay team with a mid-course changeover point.
What the Course Demands
This course is defined by a sustained climb from the start through shaded tropical rainforest to the dam, so pacing and controlled effort matter from early on. The one-way format means you are continuously progressing toward the finish with no return leg to reset rhythm. Relay teams change over at Waddlebla (about 7km), which adds a sharper focus on hitting a clear effort target for your allocated segment.
Who This Event Suits Best
The Copperlode Cup suits runners who are comfortable managing a long uphill effort and want a simple point-to-point race format. Solo entry will appeal to athletes looking to test climbing strength over 15km, while the relay option suits pairs wanting to share the workload and still be part of the full-course result. It can also work well for runners new to longer events via the relay format.
