Sport
31 August, 2025
Race has runs on board
THE annual Gran Fondo returns to the Douglas Shire with the largest number of participants after four years – largely due to the new run event.
Festival director Bade Stapleton said, after starting the event in 2022, major growth had occurred both through participants and media exposure.
He said from 2022-2023 there had been a 20 per cent jump in competitors and, after an interrupted start to 2024 with the ongoing events of Cyclone Jasper, there were still great numbers and, on September 13 and 14 the forecast was 1200-plus participants.
“We have introduced Run Port Douglas into the festival program this year. We are on track to have 1500-plus runners,” Mr Stapleton said.
“The Gran Fondo rides appear to be down on last year’s numbers but overall, we expect to have a huge increase in participation across the weekend,” he said.
“What we love about this event is that you don’t need to be an athlete to participate, with running events ranging from the 2km run/walk through to the half marathon and rides ranging from 48km to 136km.
“Entries into Run Port Douglas are well ahead of forecast and we are on track to have 1500-plus runners taking part in the very first event.”
The Scott family are Port Douglas locals and they are excited about participating as a family.
“We have been planning our costumes for the run as there is a prize for the best dressed group. We’d love to win the four tickets to snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef with Quicksilver Cruises, so we are going all out,” said Carie Scott.
“The kids are super excited and we are all doing the 2km run/walk so we can be a part of the fun of this awesome new event for Port Douglas,” she said.
Assistant tourism minister Bree James said the Queensland Government’s investment in the Gran Fondo Festival demonstrated “our commitment to supporting events that promote healthy living, family fun and regional tourism growth”.
“It’s fantastic to see an event that welcomes everyone, showcases our region’s natural beauty and encourages green time over screen time,” she said.
Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said both events were a wonderful opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to take part in an event that showcased our beautiful region.
“Run Port Douglas is more than just a fun run – it’s a scenic showcase of Port Douglas. With the course including Flagstaff Hill, Four Mile Beach and weaving its way through our streets, it offers visiting entrants a unique way to experience this beautiful tourist town,” she said.
“Riding the Cook Highway without traffic during the Gran Fondo is equally breathtaking and a rare opportunity to enjoy the coastline at your own pace.
“It’ll be fantastic to see so many people in town that weekend, taking part in the events and then supporting cafes and restaurants and other local businesses.”
Member for Cook David Kempton said Port Douglas was synonymous with running, cycling and swimming events and once again was hosting Gran Fondo and Run Port Douglas.
“Competitors, spectators, organisers and volunteers have the added bonus of enjoying one of the most spectacular places in Queensland,” he said.
“This year’s event will be no exception as the Douglas coast turns on its charm once again.”
Mr Stapleton said Tropical North Queensland residents could get $20 off their Gran Fondo entry cost by using the promo code LOCALS when registering. “The Great Barrier Reef Drive will be closed for half a day on Sunday, September 14 with timed 136km and 100km return Gran Fondo rides from Port Douglas to Palm Cove, a 60km Semi Fondo ride from Port Douglas to Wangetti and back and a 48km one-way leisurely Medio Fondo ride from Palm Cove to Port Douglas,” he said.
“We are encouraging families to make a day of it by riding the 48km Medio Fondo together without the pressure of racing for a time.”
The festival kicks off on Saturday, September 13 with Run Port Douglas and the Hartley’s to Port 40km mountain bike race, starting from Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures and both the run and mountain bike rides finishing on Four Mile Beach in Port Douglas.
The event also brings some huge names to town for the event.
“Mark Beretta from Sunrise and 7 Sport has been our ambassador since the first event back in 2022,” Mr Stapleton said.
“He will be here once again.”
Sport and Racing, Olympic and Paralympic Games Minister Tim Mander will start half marathon on Saturday, September 13.
The fun ambassador will be announced later.
“Unfortunately, they won’t be able to join us at the event this year as they have international racing commitments. But they will be in town for this announcement,” Mr Stapleton said.
Registrations can be made at https://bit.ly/47Hjxia, which also has accommodation and itinerary options suitable for runners, cyclists and their families to stay longer for a holiday.
