The Bendigo Bank Dragon Mile has played a significant part in the athletics history of Bendigo and plays a key part in the Easter Parade during this festive period each year. It is run through the main streets of Bendigo starting in Pall Mall. Crowds of approximately 20,000 line the streets to watch the race.
The long time sponsor of the race is the Bendigo Bank. Local athletics club Bendigo Harriers co-ordinates the event.
The race has a history of attracting outstanding athletes. Australian Olympic representatives such as Mike Hillard, Malcolm Norwood, Collis Birmingham, Melissa Duncan and Sarah Jamison are just some of the outstanding athletes to win the race. See below for past winners. Additionally the race provides the chance for children and adults to participate in front of their community.
The next event is set for Easter, 2024.
RACES/CATEGORIES:
Males & Females run together except Mini Mile.
1) Mini Mile Girls Gr.4 & under 10:30am
2) Mini Mile Boys Gr.4 & under 10.45am
3) Primary School Gr. 5&6 11.00am
4) Secondary School Yr 7-8 11.15am
5) Secondary School Yr 9-10 11.30pm
6) Secondary School Yr 11-12 11.45pm
7) Open, 40+, 50+, 60+ 11.45pm
Entrants please report on Race Day by 10:00am to starting point in Pall Mall at Gold Monument (near race start) to collect Race Bib Number.
One of the many Melburnians that make the trip up to Bendigo to take the title. The 2011 winner Daniel Clark.
There are many kids sections in the race. The kids love the chance to run in front of 20,000 people at the Easter Parade. Here arethe grade 5 and 6 boys in their event.
Melissa Duncan the Commonwealth Games representative has won it 4 times
Cody Williamson one of the few locals that have captured the title.
Race record holder for the females and Australian Olympian Sarah Jamieson won in 2004 and 2005.