The Sydney Marathon in 2025 has left many locals disappointed as entry rejections have reached unprecedented levels. Joseph Moran, a seasoned marathon runner who has conquered major races worldwide, including New York, Tokyo, Berlin, Boston, Chicago, and London, was eager to add his home city’s marathon to his list of achievements. However, when the ballots for the August 31 race were released, Moran found himself among a significant number of rejected applicants, marking one of the highest rejection rates in the event’s history.

The 2025 TCS Sydney Marathon saw a staggering 79,000 applications for just 35,000 available spots at the starting line, with 23% of applicants aiming to run their first-ever marathon. This surge in interest represents a substantial increase from the 2022 race, which hosted 5,306 participants. Moreover, this year’s event attracted eight times more international applicants compared to the previous year, with entrants from 55 additional countries participating in the ballot. The upgraded status of the marathon to an Abbott World Major is projected to inject $73 million into the state’s economy over the next three years.

Following the marathon’s elevation to major status, there were assurances from the operations director and the NSW Premier to prioritize local runners. While the event organizers emphasized a fair distribution of spots between local and international participants, Moran, like many others, faced disappointment despite his long-standing connection to the city.

To address the demand, a “Candidacy Club” was established, allowing runners who participated in the Sydney Marathon between 2022 and 2024 to secure a guaranteed entry for one of the next three years. Although Moran was ineligible for this option due to his last marathon-length race in 2019, other runners like gym owner Daniel Ucchino capitalized on this opportunity, enabling several of his clients to secure a spot through the club.

For individuals like Abby McNeill, missing out on the general ballot turned into a chance to run for charity partners, offering a meaningful way to honor loved ones lost to cancer. McNeill’s fundraising efforts not only provide her with a new perspective on her training but also serve as a powerful motivator as she prepares for the marathon.

As the 2025 Sydney Marathon draws near, the disappointment of rejected applicants is palpable, underscoring the growing popularity and competitiveness of the event. While some hopeful runners have had to explore alternative entry avenues, the spirit of determination and resilience shines through as participants adapt to the evolving landscape of marathon racing.