Saturday will see the young ones take to the track in the junior dash event at Gosling Creek at 4pm.

On Sunday, marathon runners will line up at Bloomfield Park for an early start, at 6.30am, followed by half marathon runners, 10kms runners and various 5km groups.

Event organiser Stewart Vidler said participation was sitting at around 1500 on Thursday, a 10 per cent increase on last year.

“For the first time the Orange Running Festival 10km race is a qualifying event for the Optus Regional Distance Running Championships, which we think is encouraging bigger numbers,” Mr Vidler said.

Mr Vidler said organisers are expecting a fun atmosphere to help get runners over the line on Sunday.

“The Scouts are putting on a barbeque and we’ve got an Optus photobooth at the Leisure Centre,” he said.

“There’s always a bit of a celebration at the Bloomfield Country Club afterwards too.”

Mr Vidler said he’s tipping local medium distance runners Mitch Williamson and Nathan Sutherland will put in strong performances.

While first woman to run across the Simpson Desert, Jane Trumper will also be one to watch.

Ms Trumper is adding to her tally to secure her record of being the Australian female with the most marathons to her name.

After Orange, the Optus Regional Distance Running Championships are being held in Bathurst, Dubbo, Mudgee, Forbes and Carcoar with winners walking away with a cut of a $10,000 prize pool.

Orange City Council and Cabonne Council will temporarily close the following roads between 6am and 1pm on Sunday:

Organisers said access to Cadia Mine and Orange Airport would not be disrupted.

Drivers requiring critical access to the closed roads can contact organisers to arrange an escort vehicle but there may be delays. Organisers are encouraging motorists to use the alternative routes wherever possible.

Mr Vidler said they will be working with council on the day to minimise disruptions.