The Medibank Melbourne Marathon Festival is Australia’s most popular marathon, attracting more than 40,000 participants every year. The event has been held every year since 1978 but has enjoyed a significant gain in popularity since 2007 when the finish line was moved to the MCG, one of the World’s most famous sporting stadiums. Free entry to the MCG is provided to all family and friends of those participating in the marathon. The 42-kilometre course takes runners through some of the most picturesque parts of the city including St Kilda Beach, Albert Park Lake, Alexandra Gardens and the Federation Square precinct. As well as the full marathon distance, there are also 3, 5.7, 10 and 21-kilometre course options available.