Run the Tan (RTT) has proudly taken place for five years, consistently held in late April on the first Sunday after school holidays. This timing wasn’t random—it was strategically chosen in close collaboration with Australian Athletics (AA), Athletics Victoria (AV), and Schools Associations to align with:

  • The transition from summer athletics to winter cross-country seasons (approx. 1-2 weeks post National Championships),
  • The kick-off of XCR and Schools XCR seasons; and
  • City of Melbourne’s Event Calendar.

Our dates were included as part of the 2024–2026 AA race calendar, shared with all key stakeholders last year.

The purpose of the RTT annual showcase event is to create a platform to showcase our elite athletes to the public in the heart of Melbourne, and provide an opportunity for everyone to get involved and support a great cause, raising money and awareness for mental health. From Elites, Celebrities, Emergency Services, Schools, Recreational Runners, and the Community. Our aim is to grow the sport of running by bringing Athletics to the people on the iconic Tan Track in the heart of Melbourne.

We want to take this opportunity to highlight the importance of having a coordinated race calendar that allows events to flourish without unnecessary conflicts. The planning and scheduling of RTT reflect our commitment to the running community and ensure that athletes, schools, and associations can participate in this flagship event with a seamless transition between seasons.

Run the Tan will continue to uphold its tradition, taking place on the first Sunday after school holidays, a date that has been consistent and proven ideal for the running community. The following is a forward-looking view on the proposed dates for the Run the Tan annual showcase event:

Run the Tan 2026 – Sunday 26 April 2026
Run the Tan 2027 – Sunday 18 April 2027
Run the Tan 2028 – Sunday 23 April 2028

We encourage all events to work collaboratively within the framework of the shared race calendar to support runners and fans alike, especially those events held in the same state of Victoria. Together, we can create an inclusive, thriving community that benefits everyone.

Thank you for your ongoing support of the Run the Tan annual showcase event and the incredible cause it champions. We look forward to seeing you at the Tan Track next year on 26 April 2026 for another unique, iconic, and local event supporting mental health.

 

#RTT2026 #RTT2027 #RTT2028 #RaceCalendar #FairPlay #runformentalhealth

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