Sydney Marathon

Entry for 2026 runs through a ballot (random draw) that opens 24 September 2025 and closes 17 October 2025. Runners who meet high-performance qualifying standards bypass the ballot. If you don't get a ballot spot, charity entries are guaranteed with a minimum fundraising commitment of $3,000, and travel package entries are also available.

Yes, the Sydney Marathon is a certified Boston qualifier. The course has a modest net drop overall, though it includes significant climbing, so your time will depend on how well you manage the elevation.

The time limit is 7 hours.

Recent editions have seen just under 33,000 finishers, making it one of the larger marathons in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Sydney Marathon is point-to-point, running from North Sydney to the finish at the Sydney Opera House. It crosses the Harbour Bridge and carries over 1,000 feet of elevation gain across the route, so while the net profile is slightly downhill, there is meaningful climbing involved. Plan your pacing accordingly.

Yes, the Sydney Marathon is an Abbott World Marathon Major, joining the series of the world's most prominent marathons alongside races like London, Tokyo, Berlin, Chicago, New York, and Boston.

Free public transport is included with race entry on race day. The finish at the Sydney Opera House is closest to Circular Quay Station, making it easy to get back from the finish line.