An insider’s guide to the Sydney Marathon (2024)
The 2024 TCS Sydney Marathon is a particularly special event as it marks the final step in the marathon’s candidacy for becoming part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors (WMM) series. If the 2024 event successfully meets the high standards set by the Abbott WMM, Sydney will officially become the seventh Major marathon in 2025, joining the ranks of races like Boston, London, and New York. This is an exciting development for participants and spectators, as it will elevate the race’s prestige and global appeal.
Key Details for the 2024 Sydney Marathon
Date and Start Time
Date: Sunday, 15th September 2024
Start Time: 6:00 AM (full marathon); 5:50 AM (elite wheelchair athletes)
Start and Finish Locations
Start Location: The marathon begins at Miller Street, North Sydney near North Sydney Oval. This offers a prime view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, setting the tone for an epic race across one of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks.
Finish Location: The marathon finishes at the Sydney Opera House Forecourt, providing runners with a memorable conclusion to their race in front of one of the most recognizable buildings in the world .
Course Highlights
1. Sydney Harbour Bridge (0–3 km): One of the most breathtaking parts of the race, runners cross the Harbour Bridge with stunning views of Sydney Harbour.
2. Circular Quay and The Rocks (3–6 km): You’ll pass through this historic area with cheering crowds, giving an early morale boost.
3. Pyrmont Peninsula (10–20 km): This waterfront section provides a beautiful contrast to the bustling city streets.
4. Centennial Park (30–35 km): A serene green space where runners can catch their breath before tackling the final stages of the marathon.
5. Finish at the Opera House (42 km): Runners cross the finish line with the iconic Opera House as the backdrop, a spectacular finale .
On-Course Amenities
Hydration and Nutrition: Drink stations providing water, electrolyte drinks (Fixx Nutrition), and GU energy gels will be located every 5 km. Make sure to carry your own gels if you rely on specific nutrition, as the number of available gels is limited.
Pacers: To help you achieve your target time, pacers will be available for a variety of finish times, ranging from 2 hours 30 minutes to 7 hours .
Transportation and Bag Drop
Public transportation is the best way to reach the start line. Sydney’s transit system will operate additional services, including trains to North Sydney. After the race, your bags, dropped at the start, can be retrieved from the Marathon Recovery Zone at the finish area.
2025 World Marathon Major Status
The Sydney Marathon is in its final year of assessment to become an Abbott World Marathon Major. If successful, Sydney will join the prestigious group of Majors in 2025, making it the first new marathon to achieve this status since Tokyo in 2013. This will attract even more elite athletes and increase global attention.
Running the 2024 TCS Sydney Marathon is a unique opportunity to be part of a race that is on the cusp of making marathon history. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best or simply enjoying the experience, you’ll be part of a pivotal moment in the event’s evolution into a World Marathon Major.