TCS Sydney Marathon

Sydney, Australia
Aug 30, 2026 at 6:30 AM

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

๐ŸŒฅ๏ธ
winter
cool

Elevation

Terrain Profile

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Relatively flat course

Participants

Field Size

๐ŸŽŠ
35,000RUNNERS

World-class event

Crowd Rating

Spectator Support

๐ŸŽ‰
8/ 10

Excellent spectator turnout

Boston Qualifier

This race qualifies for the Boston Marathon

Race Weekend

Other distances available

10K (6.2 miles / 10 km)
Half Marathon (13.1 miles / 21.1 km)
5K (3.1 miles / 5 km)

Notable Landmarks

1

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Runners cross the iconic bridge with stunning harbour views

2

Sydney Opera House

Pass by this UNESCO World Heritage site along the harbour foreshore

3

Royal Botanic Garden

Run through scenic gardens with harbour and city skyline views

4

Mrs Macquarie's Chair

Historic sandstone rock formation offering panoramic harbour vistas

5

The Rocks

Historic precinct with cobblestone streets and colonial architecture

6

Circular Quay

Bustling waterfront hub connecting the Opera House and Harbour Bridge

7

Centennial Park

Expansive parklands providing a green respite in the city

8

Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG)

Finish line at Australia's most famous sports stadium

Race Location

Sydney, Australia

AU

Avg. Hotel Cost
$250/ night

Based on nearby accommodations

Official Hotel Portal

The race offers a booking portal with partner hotel options

View Options
Requirements
Minimum Age18 years
Time Limit6 hours 30 minutes
Eligibility
  • 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
Documents
  • Photo ID
  • Proof of Age
  • Medical Clearance Certificate (if over 65)
  • Emergency Contact Information
Entry Methods
  • 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.

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