Sydney has seen the return of Australia’s largest-ever marathon, the 42.195km Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) Sydney Marathon which attracted more than 40,000 participants.
This year participants traveled from over 100 countries, with the men’s winner Brimin Misoi being from Kenya and the women’s winner Workenesh Gurmesa from Ethiopia.
Both Athletes achieved record-breaking times and Misoi who ran 2:06:17 told Sydney Morning Herald that the conditions were hard and he was proud of his victory.
“It was very good because it was a hard course,” Mr Misoi said.
“I didn’t expect to win today because it was my first time.
“I didn’t expect to win but everything was perfect and it was good.”
To accommodate the surge in participation, the marathon experienced a change in the course track, with the start this year being moved to North Sydney Oval.
The changes has allowed for easier access to public transport, increased course width, and the reduction of out and back section to improve the experience of both runner and wheelchair racers.
The marathon commenced for wheelchair racers at 5:50 am and 6am for runners when it was chilly 5 degrees and the ended in the afternoon with strong winds.
For spectators, the cold and windy conditions were less than ideal, but for first-time marathon runner Emma Davies the cool weather was refreshing throughout the 42km course.
“It has been really hot lately so I was glad that we finally got some cooler weather for race day,” Miss Davies said.
“I don’t know if I would have been able to finish if it had been a scorcher.”
Since its first event in 2001, the TCS Sydney Marathon has raised over $26.5 million for Australian charities, with $1.46 million of that having been donated in 2023 alone.
The TCS Sydney Marathon is aiming to join the ranks of distinguished global marathons including those of TCS New York City, Tokyo, TCS London, Bank of America Chicago and Boston marathons.
Event Director and TCS Sydney Marathon CEO, Wayne Larden thanked participants on behalf of the TCS Sydney Marathon team and reminded runners that it’s not all about the time.
“As we strive to make history, remember it’s not all about the time, it’s about creating memories, enjoying experiences… and achieving something amazing for yourself,” Mr Larden said.
In 2023, the marathon saw 41,000 participants with individuals traveling from 81 countries while more than 120,000 spectators watched from the sidelines and similar results were achieved again this year.
Video: If you would like to know the course route, this video by Sydney Marathon shows a fly through of the updated TCS Sydney Marathon track.
Feature Image: Brett Hemmings