It’s time to start limbering up with entries for the 2023 Gold Coast Marathon now open with extra incentive for people to get in early.
Organisers are expecting around 22,000 competitors for this year’s event with more international runners tipped to head to the Glitter Strip.
Competitors who enter early will get a 20 per cent discount on the entry fee up until April 28.
The 2023 Gold Coast Marathon will be held on July 1 and 2.
The event made a triumphant return in 2022 after a three-year hiatus because of COVID.
Last year’s marathon saw 19,546 people take part with an estimated $25 million dollars pumped into the city’s economy.
This year’s event is expected to surpass that with the city forecast to benefit to the tune of $30 million.
For those not up to the full marathon, the 21km half marathon will take place on Saturday, July 1 along with the 5km fun run and the junior dash.
The main event, the 42km marathon, will be held on Sunday, July 2 along the picturesque streets of the Gold Coast from Southport, via Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach to Burleigh before runners head back to Runaway Bay before crossing the line at the Broadwater Parklands.
Sunday will also see the wheelchair marathon and the 10km run.
Tourism and Sports Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the 2023 Gold Coast Marathon was seeing strong interest from international competitors.
“First run in 1979 and with its stunning Queensland beachside location, the Gold Coast Marathon has an esteemed history as one of the world’s great marathons,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
“Early interest from Southeast Asia, Japan and New Zealand suggests 2023 will be the Gold Coast Marathon’s year of recovery and that’s terrific news for tourism operators.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate has urged people to get in early and start training for one of the eight races contested over the weekend.
“This event provides a unique opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to participate in the same races as some of the world’s greatest athletes on a world-famous course that showcases the destination in all its glory,” Mayor Tate said.
“I am looking forward to seeing thousands of overseas and interstate visitors heading to the city to join Gold Coasters to participate and enjoy an exciting, sporting holiday experience,” Mayor Tate said.
Entries for this year’s Gold Coast Marathon can be done at www.goldcoastmarathon.com.au
