Marathon Handbook reports runners faced water shortages at Melbourne Marathon stations. Complaints surfaced on social media, with some runners reporting no water between 8K and 25K. A volunteer noted the water supply was depleted by the half-marathon start.

The complaints included runners walking through backed-up fields and one running on the footpath. Some runners resorted to buying their own drinks. Brady Nan criticized the organizers for not adequately preparing for the hot conditions. The Bureau of Meteorology recorded rising temperatures throughout the day. Read more culture coverage.

The marathon and half-marathon shared drink stations, leading to shortages as slower marathoners used the stations. This year's race was the first since a change in ownership. Organizers have not yet responded to the complaints. Related: Chicago Marathon Forecast Cools Down for Sunday.

This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.