Nestled in the heart of Melbourne, the Tan Track has long been a cherished haven for runners, walkers, and fitness enthusiasts. Encircling the Royal Botanic Gardens, this 3.827km loop offers a picturesque escape from urban life, with its gravel paths and lush greenery. But beyond its natural allure, the Tan Track has become the epicentre of a movement that intertwines running, community, and mental health advocacy: the Run the Tan event.
The Genesis of Run the Tan
The inception of Run the Tan in 2019 was the brainchild of Melbourne native Darren Templeton. Recognising the Tan Track’s iconic status, Templeton envisioned an event that would not only celebrate the physical achievements of runners but also serve a greater purpose. He sought to harness the collective energy of the running community to shine a light on mental health issues, a cause important to him.
“I’ve always believed in the transformative power of running.”
darren templeton, Run the tan founder
“Combining this passion with mental health advocacy seemed like a natural fit.”
From its grassroots beginnings, Run the Tan aimed to establish a central repository for All-time official run times around the Tan Track. This initiative provided a standardised platform for athletes to gauge their performances and set new benchmarks. The event’s mission expanded to promote a healthy and active lifestyle for all Australians, with a focus on the positive impact of exercise on mental well-being.
Elevating the Tan Track’s Legacy
The Tan Track’s history is rich and multifaceted. Its name, is believed to derive from its tan-coloured surface, a nod to its original tan bark composition, while there’s also a natural lean towards an assumption that its an abbreviation of “BoTANical Gardens.” Regardless of its etymology, the track has evolved into one of the world’s most frequented running circuits, attracting everyone from runners just starting their journey, through to elite athletes.
In 2012, the Bennelong Foundation gifted two digital clocks to the City of Melbourne, installing them along the Tan Track. These clocks offered runners real-time feedback on their lap times, fostering a spirit of competition and personal growth. Recognising the need for an official database to validate these times, Templeton and his team at Run the Tan took on the responsibility of managing and updating the records displayed on these clocks. This collaboration ensured accuracy and provided runners with a credible source to track their progress.
“Seeing athletes push their limits and strive for new records – personal or otherwise – inspires everyone. Every time someone beats their best time or takes on a new challenge, it’s a testament to the power of perseverance,” Templeton said.
“The Digital Clocks serve as a constant reminder of what’s possible, and symbolize that drive to keep improving, no matter where you’re starting from.”
Championing Mental Health Through Movement
Central to Run the Tan’s ethos is the commitment to mental health advocacy. The event is organised and operated by Run for Mental Health Ltd, an Australian charity dedicated to promoting the prevention and control of mental illnesses, with a focus on conditions like depression and anxiety. By integrating mental health awareness into the fabric of the event, Run the Tan creates a platform where conversations about well-being are encouraged and destigmatised.
“One in five Australians will experience mental illness this year,” Templeton emphasised.
“Research has shown that running for just 15 minutes per day can reduce the risk of major depression by 26%. If we can make a difference by combining our passion for running with support for mental health initiatives, then we’re on the right path.”
The annual showcase event, held in late April every year (generally the first Sunday after school returns for Term 2) – this year on Sunday 27 April – serves as a focal point for these efforts. Participants, ranging from elite athletes to casual joggers, and celebrities have come together for the event over the years to support various mental health charities, including the likes of Jessica Hull, Stewart McSweyn, Craig Mottram, Linden Hall, Abbey Caldwell, Lauren Ryan, Liam Adams, Matthew Clarke, Dave Hughes, Anthony Koutoufides, Alicia Loxley, Campbell Brown, Matthew Richardson, Rob Mills and many more. This year aims to raise $100,000 for organisations such as Lifeline, Blackdog Institute, RUOK, and Ambers White Light. This collective endeavour not only generates essential funds but also amplifies awareness about the importance of mental health care.
Fostering Community and Inclusivity
Run the Tan champions inclusivity at all levels. As a striking example, with over $33,000 prize money pool for the Elite Showcase events, there’s not only prize money for the Elite Para events, but an equal amount to the able-bodied athletes.
Beyond the annual event, Run the Tan has cultivated a vibrant community through initiatives like its weekly Run Club. Held every Saturday at 8 am, these sessions welcome individuals of all fitness levels, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support. The Run Club embodies the belief that physical activity can be a unifying force, bridging gaps and building connections.
“Our goal is to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome,” Templeton explained.
“Whether you’re an elite athlete or just starting your fitness journey, there’s a place here for you.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Run the Tan
As Run the Tan continues to grow, Templeton remains steadfast in his vision. Plans are underway to expand the event’s reach, engage more participants, and deepen its impact on mental health advocacy. Collaborations with local businesses, mental health organizations, and the broader community are central to this strategy.
“This is just the beginning and we’re just scratching the surface of what’s possible,” Templeton reflected.
“With the incredible support of our partners and community, we can continue to expand our reach and make an even greater impact.”
Run the Tan – Sunday 27 April 2025
