Registrations are now open for the Burdekin Sugar Rush 2026, with locals encouraged to start training early for one of the region’s most popular and inclusive running events.
Set to take place on Sunday, 26 April 2026 in Ayr, the Burdekin Sugar Rush offers something for everyone, with race distances including a Half Marathon (21km), 10km and 5km, welcoming runners and walkers of all ages and abilities.
As the signature event of the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers Club, the Sugar Rush has become a much-loved fixture on the local sporting calendar, celebrating not only personal achievement but also community connection, health and fun.
Organisers say the event attracts participants from across North Queensland, including Townsville, Ingham, Cairns, Mackay and the Whitsundays, while maintaining a strong focus on first-time competitors and families through its shorter distances and pram-friendly options.
With training season now underway, locals looking to build fitness ahead of the event are encouraged to join Plantation parkrun, a free, weekly, timed 5km walk, jog or run held every Saturday at 7am. Open to all ages and abilities, Plantation parkrun provides an accessible and supportive way for beginners and experienced runners alike to train consistently and connect with others in the community.
The mental health benefits of regular exercise were highlighted in recent research led by Neil Munro from James Cook University, which reviewed more than 1,000 clinical trials examining the impact of exercise on depression and anxiety.
“There have been more than a thousand studies on this subject, we wanted to synthesise this vast body of evidence, cut through conflicting findings and provide the clearest picture yet of exercise’s impact on mental health,” said Mr Munro.
The study found aerobic activities such as walking and running were particularly effective, with supervised and group-based exercise delivering the strongest benefits — reinforcing the value of community events like parkrun and the Burdekin Sugar Rush in supporting both physical and mental wellbeing.
“For those facing barriers to traditional care, the message is clear: moving your body, especially with others, can be a powerful step toward better mental health,” Mr Munro said.
An early bird bonus is currently available for the Burdekin Sugar Rush, with early registrants receiving a free personalised race bib featuring their name.
Whether participants are chasing a personal best, training with friends, walking for fun or taking on their first-ever event, organisers say the Burdekin Sugar Rush offers a welcoming environment that showcases the region’s scenery while promoting an active, healthy lifestyle.
Registrations and event updates are available via the Burdekin Road Runners and Walkers Club website, with locals encouraged to sign up early and make the most of the months ahead by getting moving at Plantation parkrun.
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