Stromlo Running Festival has attracted tens of thousands of runners (and walkers) from across Canberra and interstate since it began in 2009. Photo: Flynn Hopkins.
Stromlo Running Festival just delivered one of its most electric weekends yet, with thousands of trail runners, supporters and volunteers flocking to Stromlo Forest Park for the event’s 16th iteration.
Mount Stomlo was a sea of polarised sunnies and well-worn sneakers on 15 and 16 November, worn by first-timers shaking out nerves on the shorter trails right through to seasoned regulars chasing personal bests.
They were met with clear skies and the warm, welcoming atmosphere SRF is known for – balanced by a dash of friendly rivalry, of course.
While the festival attracted plenty of interstate runners, Canberra dominated the podiums this year with strong representation in all five competitive events.
A new record was also set for the SRF Marathon challenge, by none other than the 2024 male runner-up, Michael Daley.
Michael has enjoyed running since primary school, so he feels right at home among Canberra’s most passionate trail runners. He’ll be in Japan for the 2026 Osaka Marathon come February, so this year’s festival was also a great opportunity to test his endurance.
“It was a really friendly, good vibe all around. Everyone seemed to be enjoying the atmosphere, and lots of people were encouraging each other,” Michael said.
“Trail running is one of those sports where constant improvement is not only possible but encouraged. You are your biggest competitor, and there’s always another challenge to tackle somewhere.
“Standing on that first-place podium felt great. I came in second last year, which was also great, but of course, everyone covets the top spot.”
For SRF co-founder and Indigenous Marathon Foundation founder, Rob de Castella, 2025 reflected just how far the festival has come.
“Sixteen years on, and SRF gets bigger and better [with] two massive days of celebrating strength, resilience, courage and community,” Rob said.
“I was so proud and excited to share the event with over 50 young Indigenous primary school students from some of the smallest and most remote communities across Australia as part of IMF’s I-CAN program.”
The weekend raised more than $7000 for the foundation. These funds will go directly towards IMF programs like I-CAN, which supports future First Nations leaders through physical literacy initiatives that reward health and school attendance.
Race director Mel Bingley noted that the did-not-finish rate was low, and plenty of runners beat their personal bests. She dedicated special thanks to SRF’s volunteer cohort.
“This festival brings so much joy. It’s a wonderful demonstration of our community’s dedication, generosity, and shared love of the outdoors.
“When you see local runners filling the marathon podium and breaking records, you know they have been lifted every step of the way by those cheers, smiles and words of encouragement.
“To the SRF team, volunteers, participants and wider community, thank you so much for supporting our event in its Sweet 16th year. Here’s to an even bigger and better SRF in 2026!”
For full results, visit Stromlo Running Festival.
