Tasmania's Sporting Calendar: A Month-by-Month Guide to What's On

Tasmania punches well above its weight on the Australian sporting calendar. The state's compact geography, varied terrain and passionate community mean there is almost always something significant happening, whether you are a spectator, a participant or simply someone who loves the rhythm of sport through the year. Here is a month-by-month guide to the highlights that shape the Tasmanian sporting year.

Summer kicks off in style. The finish of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race in late December and into January brings the Derwent alive with spectators watching ocean-racing legends cross the line at Constitution Dock. January and February also mark the heart of the Big Bash League season, with the Hobart Hurricanes hosting nights at Blundstone Arena that have become one of summer's great family occasions. Parkrun events run every Saturday morning across Hobart, Launceston and regional sites, and the open-water swimming season draws enthusiasts to the Derwent and the state's beaches.

Autumn is a transition time rich with running events. The Cadbury Marathon and associated half marathon, held in Hobart each autumn, attract runners from across the country who combine competition with the scenic course along the Derwent. The Launceston Ten draws a strong field from across northern Tasmania. AFL pre-season builds excitement ahead of the season proper, and Little Athletics clubs wrap up their summer programs with carnivals and state championships.

Winter belongs to AFL. Tasmanians have always had a deep and passionate relationship with Australian Rules football, following both their local clubs and the national competition with equal fervour. Rugby union clubs compete through the winter months, and indoor sports including basketball pick up pace. The mountain-biking trails at Derby and Maydena draw visitors year-round but are particularly popular through the cooler months when the bush is at its lushest.

Spring signals the return of cricket. Club cricket pre-season begins, and the Tasmanian Tigers in the Sheffield Shield and the Hurricanes in the BBL start preparations. Trail running events on kunanyi and around the state's national parks fill the calendar, and the Point to Pinnacle, billed as one of the world's toughest half marathons, challenges thousands of Tasmanians to take on the climb from the Hobart waterfront to the summit of kunanyi / Mount Wellington each November. Whatever your sport, Tasmania has you covered.

Sources: Point to Pinnacle Sport and Recreation Tasmania

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