Sydney Marathon has marked a significant milestone in Australian athletics by officially becoming a part of the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors. This move places Sydney alongside esteemed marathons like Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York City Marathons, solidifying its position on the global stage in the realm of marathon running.

The inclusion of Sydney Marathon in the Abbott World Marathon Majors signifies a remarkable achievement not only for the city but also for Australian athletics as a whole. This recognition elevates the race to an elite status, attracting top-tier distance runners and wheelchair racers from around the world. The heightened profile brought by this affiliation promises to enhance both the competitive landscape and the overall experience for the myriad running enthusiasts who participate in or follow the event.

Jane Flemming, the President of Athletics Australia, expressed her elation at this development, emphasizing the exceptional nature of Sydney’s entry into this exclusive group of marathons. The significance of this achievement extends beyond just a sporting accolade; it serves as an inspiration for countless Australians to embrace running and the values of perseverance and excellence associated with the sport.

The roots of the Sydney Marathon trace back to the legacy of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, with the event witnessing a remarkable growth trajectory over the past two decades. What began with a modest 1,200 finishers in its inaugural year has burgeoned into a race that drew 25,000 participants in 2024, underscoring its increasing appeal and international prominence.

Managed by Pont3 and under the ownership of Athletics Australia, the Sydney Marathon underwent a rigorous evaluation process spanning multiple years to meet the stringent criteria set by the Abbott World Marathon Majors. This milestone not only signifies a new chapter for Australian athletics but also underscores the evolving landscape of the sport, which now embraces both professional athletes and recreational runners alike.

Simon Hollingsworth, the CEO of Athletics Australia, highlighted the broader impact of Sydney Marathon’s inclusion in the World Marathon Majors, emphasizing the potential for increased global attention, expanded opportunities, and a surge in participation among Australians seeking the physical and social benefits that athletics offers. The move is poised to invigorate the sport and leave a lasting legacy for future generations of athletes and enthusiasts.

Athletics Australia extended its gratitude to Pont3 for their instrumental role in growing the event and also recognized the support of the NSW Government, particularly through Destination NSW, in securing Sydney’s status as a premier global marathon destination. This collaborative effort underscores the collective commitment to advancing Australian athletics and promoting the sport on an international platform.

In conclusion, the integration of Sydney Marathon into the Abbott World Marathon Majors heralds a new era for Australian athletics, one that celebrates excellence, inclusivity, and the enduring spirit of competition that defines the sport of marathon running. This historic moment not only cements Sydney’s place among the elite marathons of the world but also paves the way for a vibrant future for athletics in Australia.