The Sydney Marathon has undergone significant changes in recent years, particularly in its quest to attain Abbott World Marathon Major status. This transformation has not been without its challenges, especially in balancing the needs of local participants with the event’s growing global reputation.

In 2023, the marathon, formerly known as the Blackmores Running Festival, implemented a stricter time limit for its half-marathon race, causing concern among local runners. The decision to reduce the finishing time cutoff sparked controversy, as a considerable number of participants exceeded the new limit. To address this issue, organizers allowed runners to upgrade to the full marathon at no extra cost, extending the time limit to accommodate them.

As Sydney aimed to join the ranks of prestigious marathons like those in New York, Tokyo, and London, the event’s scale expanded significantly. The field grew from 5000 participants to 25,000 in just a year, reaching a peak of 79,000 applications for 35,000 spots in the TCS Sydney Marathon by 2025. This surge in interest, fueled by the marathon’s elevated status, brought about economic benefits projected at $73 million over three years, according to Destination NSW.

However, this newfound international appeal has raised concerns among local runners who fear being sidelined in favor of overseas entrants. With 40% of participants now coming from abroad, efforts have been made to reserve spots for local runners. Measures such as allowing past participants to secure a place in future races have been implemented, with a majority of eligible runners being Australian.

While the marathon’s global recognition is a testament to its success, it is essential not to overlook the significance of local engagement. The event’s roots lie in the support and participation of the community, and steps should be taken to ensure that local runners continue to have opportunities to take part in the marathon. As the event evolves and gains prominence on the world stage, maintaining a balance between local involvement and international appeal will be crucial to its long-term sustainability and success.