Held on Sunday 23 August, the 2026 Kangaroo Island Marathon, Half Marathon and Sealink 10K attracted runners from around the world to Flinders Chase National Park for one of Australia’s most remote and unique marathon events.
A total of 279 runners took part in the Kangaroo Island Run Festival, out of 299 registered, and together they brought more than 500 additional guests to the island – more than 800 visitors in all, a strong boost for the local economy.
Runners represented 20 different nationalities, reflecting the event’s growing international appeal, up significantly from 221 registered runners and 187 participants in 2025.
Alongside a strong Australian contingent, the USA (39), Great Britain (11) and Canada (five) made up some of the largest overseas cohorts, with runners travelling from as far afield as Nepal, the Philippines and Uruguay.
Also among the field was Siu Fung Leung, who used Kangaroo Island to complete a remarkable challenge: his eighth and final marathon across all eight Australian states and territories. Finishing in 5 hours 21 minutes, his South Australia leg brought the journey to a fitting close on one of the country’s most demanding courses.
The strong international turnout reflects growing interest in Kangaroo Island as a running destination. Many international participants also used the trip as an opportunity for a self-drive holiday, exploring the island beyond race day itself.
Jeff Adams, President of Marathon Tours & Travel, said: “Kangaroo Island continues to prove itself as one of the most special destinations on our calendar. To see runners travelling from so many different countries, with hundreds of friends and family in tow, speaks to how much this event means to people, not just as a race, but as a genuine bucket-list travel experience. It’s fantastic for the island too, welcoming visitors to experience its wildlife and landscapes in a way few other events can offer.”
Shannon Stacey, Race Director, said: “Every year this event feels more special. The course takes runners through some genuinely wild parts of the island, and it’s always a privilege watching people experience Flinders Chase and the Remarkable Rocks for the first time, often at the hardest and most rewarding point of their race. The atmosphere out on course, and the support from the local community, is what keeps people coming back.”
Image: Kangaroo Island Run Festival; kangarooislandmarathon.com