Sydney is taking its place as the seventh long-distance wonder of the running world, joining six other cities as a marathon major.
After a three-year candidacy, Sydney was on Monday named an Abbott World Marathon Major alongside New York, London, Tokyo, Boston, Chicago and Berlin, a feat cemented after a record field of 25,000 runners hit the streets in September.
Sydney Marathon has achieved major status.Credit: Edwina Pickles
The state government says Sydney’s new status is expected to drive a wave of international and interstate runners, along with families, friends and event support crew to visit NSW.
Destination NSW estimates visitors will bring in an extra $73 million for the NSW economy over the next three years as a result of Sydney Marathon’s elevation. Over a decade, an extra $300 million will be added to the economy, it said.
Premier Chris Minns said the confirmation of major status was a huge honour for the event and the city.
“These runners, their supporters and fans who come to watch will bring a huge boost to the local economy,” he said.
“We have ambitious plans to boost the number of visitors in NSW, and this event is another feather in our cap.
“NSW is an unbeatable hotspot for tourists across the globe, and we look forward to welcoming them next year, providing a multimillion-dollar boost to the economy and an unforgettable experience for the runners on one of the most scenic marathon courses in the world.”
Sydney Marathon race director Wayne Larden said the announcement would have significant benefits for the event and the community.
“This amazing milestone is going to have a profound impact on running in Australia, inspiring the community to become a marathoner and do something special for themselves, their families and friends,” Larden said. “Community health will benefit alongside a huge increase in fundraising.”
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