Nearly 30 years of the Transurban Bridge to Brisbane … and still going strong!

What started as a local community fun run has grown into one of Queensland’s most iconic mass participation events.

Today, tens of thousands of participants take to the streets each year, celebrating movement, community and everything that makes Brisbane such a great place to live. From seasoned runners chasing a personal best to families walking together for fun, Bridge to Brisbane is truly an event for everyone.

For many, it’s also an opportunity to give back, with participants raising funds and awareness for charities close to their hearts

When was the first race?

The very first event kicked off in August 1997, with around 5000 participants. Originally known as Bridge to Bay, the course ran from the Gateway Bridge to the bayside at Manly, giving participants the unique opportunity to run across one of Brisbane’s most recognisable landmarks.

finish area of bridge to bay fun run at elanora park wynnum brisbane
View of the finish area of the Bridge to Bay fun run – Elanora Park, Wynnum. Photo taken by Mark/Cranitch on 3rd August 1997.

Who was the first winner?

The inaugural race was won by Brisbane local Pat Carroll, who went on to win the first three editions. The first women’s winner was former Olympian Carolyn Schuwalow, highlighting the strong calibre of athletes the event attracted from the very beginning. Here’s a fun fact”¦ did you know the yellow figure in the Transurban Bridge to Brisbane logo is an illustration of Pat victoriously finishing the race back in 1997?

How has the course changed over time?

Our course hasn’t always taken in the same sights as it does today!

people running down gateway bridge for bridge to brisbane
The Bridge to Brisbane used to start at the Gateway Bridge. Photo taken by Drew Fitzgibbon, 5th August 2007.

When we were the Bridge to Bay, we started on the Gateway Bridge and headed east towards the bayside suburb of Manly. The Gateway Bridge remained the starting point for many years, but the finish line changed a few times – our name change to Bridge to Brisbane saw the route finish at New Farm Park, before settling on the Brisbane Showgrounds in 2008.

people cross the bridge to brisbane finish line in bowen hills
Participants cross the Bridge to Brisbane finish line in Bowen Hills, 2015. Photo taken by Jono Searle.

After eight events encompassing this route, 2016 marked the arrival of two brand new courses, created to encompass more of Brisbane than ever before.

The 10km course started at Roma Street Parklands and crosses three of Brisbane’s iconic bridges – the Go Between Bridge, the Victoria Bridge and the Story Bridge – and the 5km started at the beautiful Captain Burke Park, crossing the Story Bridge twice. Both courses finished in the South Bank Parklands where participants enjoyed a morning of fun and relaxation with friends and family post-race.

Today, the event once again features the iconic Gateway Bridge, reconnecting with its roots while delivering a uniquely Brisbane experience.

Participants can choose from:

  • 10km – a rewarding challenge featuring the Gateway Bridge
  • 5km – a fun and accessible option for all ages and abilities taking in the sights of Brisbane.
Runners at start line for Sunday Mail Bridge to Brisbane 2017.
Runners at the start of the Sunday Mail Bridge to Brisbane, August 27, 2017. Photo taken by Jono Searle.

Why do people continue to race?

From the very beginning, Transurban Bridge to Brisbane has been much more than just a run. You don’t need to be an elite athlete to enjoy our event – Bridge to Brisbane is all about celebrating the very best of Brisbane, while appreciating being healthy and active. Elite runners, joggers and casual walkers can all take and have an equally enjoyable experience.

It’s also a chance to give back to the community – participants are encouraged to raise money for a charity of their choice.