TCS Sydney Marathon
The Lowdown
The TCS Sydney Marathon is one of Australia's premier running events and a World Athletics Gold Label Road Race, showcasing the stunning beauty of Sydney's iconic landmarks. First held in 2001, the race has grown to become one of the most sought-after marathons in the Southern Hemisphere, attracting elite athletes and recreational runners from around the globe. In 2024, the Sydney Marathon achieved a major milestone by joining the Abbott World Marathon Majors as a candidate race. Then in 2025 it became the 7th WMM. The course is renowned as one of the world's most scenic marathon routes, taking runners past Sydney's most famous landmarks including the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and along the picturesque harbor foreshore. Starting in the heart of Sydney, the relatively flat and fast course winds through diverse neighborhoods, offering breathtaking water views and finishing at the iconic Sydney Opera House forecourt. The race is certified as a Boston Marathon qualifier and attracts both competitive runners seeking personal bests and international participants wanting to experience Sydney's natural beauty. The event creates an electric atmosphere with enthusiastic crowd support throughout the course, live entertainment zones, and a festival-like finish line celebration. With its perfect blend of world-class organization, stunning scenery, and the excitement of being a World Marathon Majors candidate, the TCS Sydney Marathon has established itself as a must-do race for serious marathoners and bucket-list runners alike.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
World-class event
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Excellent spectator turnout
This race qualifies for the Boston Marathon
Race Weekend
Other distances available
Notable Landmarks
Sydney Harbour Bridge
Runners cross the iconic bridge with stunning harbour views
Sydney Opera House
Pass by this UNESCO World Heritage site along the harbour foreshore
Royal Botanic Garden
Run through scenic gardens with harbour and city skyline views
Mrs Macquarie's Chair
Historic sandstone rock formation offering panoramic harbour vistas
The Rocks
Historic precinct with cobblestone streets and colonial architecture
Circular Quay
Bustling waterfront hub connecting the Opera House and Harbour Bridge
Centennial Park
Expansive parklands providing a green respite in the city
Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG)
Finish line at Australia's most famous sports stadium
Sydney, Australia
AU
Based on nearby accommodations
The race offers a booking portal with partner hotel options
- Must be 18 years or older on race day
- Must be physically fit to complete 42.195km
- Medical clearance recommended for first-time marathoners
- Must accept all terms and conditions
- Entry subject to race capacity limits
- Photo ID
- Proof of Age
- Medical Clearance Certificate (if over 65)
- Emergency Contact Information
- Online Registration
- Lottery
- Charity Entry
- Tour Operator
- Running Club Entry
Cancellation & Refunds
Policy details
All entries are non-refundable and non-transferable
No name transfers permitted
No general deferrals to future years
No downgrades to shorter distances
Deferrals only available for expectant parents under Pregnancy and Postpartum Policy
Deferrals only available for active Australian Defence Force members under Defence Force Policy
Travel insurance strongly recommended
The course showcases Sydney's iconic landmarks including the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, and Bondi Beach.
Runners experience a unique point-to-point course starting in the Blue Mountains and finishing at the Sydney Opera House forecourt.
The race features live entertainment at multiple points along the course and a spectacular finish line celebration at Circular Quay.
All marathon finishers receive a commemorative medal, technical shirt, and access to the post-race recovery area with refreshments.
Community
Stories, tips, and race-day snapshots from runners who have tackled this course.
Community Reviews
Learn from fellow runners and share insights that will help the next person toe the line.
