Kenneth Mungara winning the 2016 Gold Coast Airport Marathon ahead of Yuki Kawauchi in an extremely close finish. Photo: Marathon Photos

The Gold Coast Airport Marathon has announced Citizen Watches will be continuing its position as the official timepiece of the event to be held 1 – 2 July 2017.

Gold Coast Airport Marathon CEO Cameron Hart said the extended partnership would mark Citizen Watches’ fifth year of association with Australia’s leading marathon.

“Citizen Watches’ approach towards exploring new technologies and innovative techniques in order to create superior products aligns perfectly with our event, so I’m delighted with this renewal,” Mr Hart said.

“A global brand operating in more than 100 countries, Citizen Watches provides cross promotional opportunities for the Gold Coast Airport Marathon in key international markets such as China, Singapore and Malaysia.”

Citizen Watches CEO Shiori Takahashi said the brand was pleased to continue their relationship with the Gold Coast Airport Marathon and is excited about the mutually beneficial opportunities.

“The Gold Coast Airport Marathon is one of the best road races because of its world class organisation and friendly atmosphere,” Ms Takahashi said.

“Some of my Japanese friends ran at the 2016 event and told me how much they enjoyed the race and the Gold Coast. A number of them achieved a personal best time.

“The renewed sponsorship expands the visibility of our brand during the event, including our activation at the ASICS Sport & Leisure Expo which has been well-received by thousands of runners over the years.”

The Gold Coast Airport Marathon is organised by Events Management Queensland, a major event management company wholly owned by the Queensland Government as part of Tourism and Events Queensland.

The 39th annual Gold Coast Airport Marathon will be held on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 July 2017.