This was the new improved Sydney Marathon as they continue to campaign to make Sydney the 7th major. 3 day expo for collecting numbers and t shirts very similar to London with 50 exhibitors , plenty of freebie and photo opportunities. Getting to event made easy by the opening of the new Sydney metro which takes you directly to the North Oval . Toilets plentiful and fast track facilities for the guys. Wave organisation very clear and very good . You are able to ditch unwanted clothing at the start. You run over some amazing parts of Sydney but crowd support was lacking in the first 10km but the race starts at 6am on a Sunday which could explain it . Highlights definitely the harbour bridge and the finish at the Opera House . Support in the last 2km is immense . Less enjoyable is the out and back at Kingsford and Centennial Park . Beware Sydney is deceptively hilly! First 18km covers most of them but there are some short sharp ones on the return into the city. Good quality T shirt , nice medal . Apple and a bottle of water at the end . Good tracking app for spectators. It’s Spring in Sydney in September but back for all weathers . In 2023 they had temperatures of 40 degrees, this year we were shivering in the pens with a wind chill factor of 3! Would I recommend? Yes but get in quick because if they become a major the price will rise . 2024 early bird price was £80.

The event when I first ran in it in 2023 was phenomenal, well organised and the supporters and volunteers and course were amazing. I was really looking forward to participating again this year in 2025 with it being the first time it is a world major. Sadly, however, I was injured the other day in the City 2 Surf which means I am out this year. This has been disappointing for me as I was looking forward to it but what makes it worse is I can’t at least receive some form of a refund or option to transfer to the following year. This is my only point of contention with this event as I feel with accidents or injury and sufficient medical certification this should be allowed. I hope in future Sydney Marathon starts considering this option.