A record number of overseas runners are expected to converge in Queensland for this year’s Gold Coast Airport Marathon, to be held 2 – 3 July, with international entries up 20% on the same time last year.

Events Management Queensland Chairman Kerry Watson said the high number of international participants is a result of direct flights to the Gold Coast from Malaysia, Singapore, China, Hong Kong, Japan and New Zealand.

“Already, a record number of Malaysians have entered this year’s event and we’re witnessing significant growth in other regions such as Hong Kong and Taiwan,” Mr Watson said.

“Last year we attracted more than 3,000 runners from nearly 60 countries and we’re on track to surpass these figures.

“With direct flights from Wuhan and Hong Kong, we’re forecasting more than 5,000 competitors from China will participate at Australia’s leading marathon in five years’ time.

“In addition, the established Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Tokyo routes are expected to contribute to a further 3,000 runners by the 2020 event.”

Mr Watson said the Gold Coast Airport Marathon’s internationally recognised flat, fast and scenic course, its IAAF Road Race Gold Label designation and its location continue to be major drawcards for runners from overseas, interstate and from within Queensland.

“The 2015 Gold Coast Airport Marathon event welcomed more than 27,500 participants from Australia and abroad resulting in more than 68,000 visitor nights contributing to an economic impact of $21.99m,” Mr Watson said.

“Every state and territory will once again be represented with interstate entries currently sitting 6% higher than at the same time last year.

“Our course and the beautiful Gold Coast winter weather, which is great for running with low humidity, little or no wind in the morning and mild temperatures, contributed to more than 60% of our participants achieving a personal best time last year.

“Not only does the event provide participants ideal running conditions, it offers them the perfect opportunity to explore one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations and its golden surf beaches, stunning broadwater, popular restaurants and cafes and exciting theme parks with accommodation for all budgets.”

Early bird entries for the 2016 Gold Coast Airport Marathon finish Thursday 28 April (11:59pm AEST).