Event Overview
The McLaren Vale Running Festival is scheduled for Sunday 18 October 2026 in McLaren Vale, South Australia, and is listed as the closing event of SARRC’s Triple Vines Series. Distances offered are 5km, 10km and 21.1km, with an additional kids dash (290m) noted in the event schedule. Start times are published for each race, and the event includes electronic timing and results services.
What the Course Demands
Course details for 2026 are noted as to be confirmed, with the event described as running along the Shiraz Trail. With multiple distances starting in a short window, pacing discipline and early positioning can matter, particularly for runners targeting clear running space near the start. For the half marathon, sustained effort and steady execution are typically the key demands, while the 5km and 10km reward controlled speed and efficient transitions through busier sections.
Who This Event Suits Best
This event suits runners who want a choice of standard race distances in a single morning, including athletes building toward or benchmarking a half marathon. The 5km can work well for newer racers wanting a shorter, timed event, while the 10km suits runners aiming for a longer sustained effort without the full half-marathon load. It also fits those who prefer organised timing and clear race-day scheduling.
