With four months until the starter’s gun fires at the 2017 Gold Coast Airport Marathon, Gold Coast locals are being encouraged to join thousands of international and interstate visitors in participating in the world-class event held on the weekend of 1 – 2 July.

Over 6,000 residents participated in the 2016 edition, the highest number of active local participants of any event in the city, joining over 3,000 international runners, 7,500 interstate runners and over 9,000 others from within Queensland in taking on a personal challenge.

Initiated in 1979 by the Rotary Club of Surfers Paradise Central as part of a health awareness campaign, the 39th running of the event will carry on the original organisers’ intentions by encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle on the way to the start line.

While the marathon has grown to an internationally recognised event which contributes $24 million into the local economy and provides employment opportunities for residents and local suppliers, the marathon still presents a focal point for locals pursuing a healthy way of life.

A fifth-generation Gold Coaster, Events Management Queensland CEO Cameron Hart is not only proud of the economic contribution his organisation’s signature event makes to the region but he’s also delighted about the positive influence the Gold Coast Airport Marathon has had on the lifestyles of those living in the area since its inception.

“While the event’s international status is often celebrated, the event is still Gold Coast’s own community affair, run by locals for locals,” Mr Hart said.

“Just like New Yorkers taking part in the New York Marathon and Londoners embracing their hometown marathon in support of the contribution the events make to their communities, Gold Coasters are encouraged to connect with friends and family and join in this annual celebration of our active Queensland lifestyle.

“While I’m unable to participate through running, my team and I will be ensuring the event experience is as rewarding and enjoyable for our local runners as it is for those visiting the region.”

2000 Gold Coast Airport Marathon winner Sam Hughes, a prominent local advocate of an active and healthy lifestyle, has called on both new and old Gold Coast residents to be a part of the action.

“The Gold Coast Airport Marathon provides a great opportunity to participate in an event that truly caters to all ages and abilities,” Ms Hughes said.

“There’s not many sports where everyday participants can mix with elites, and to be able to reach for a personal goal while those at the front of the race aim for victory is a remarkable opportunity.

“For those new to the region, joining a running club or training group is a great way to meet friends and benefit from the social and mental support that comes from running with others.

“Plus, the marathon weekend provides a great avenue to experience Gold Coast community pride on display.”

Heeding calls for residents to take on the challenge in July is two-time NRL premiership winner and hit90.9 Sea FM Gold Coast announcer Ben Hannant, whose undertaking of the 42.195km challenge is new ground for the former rugby league forward.

“I am so excited to be doing the one of the biggest physical challenges of my life,” Mr Hannant said.

“I’ve never run a marathon before and it’s something that I can finally tick off the bucket list.

“To have the opportunity in my home town too – there is no better way to do it!”

Find a running group

Enter a race at the Gold Coast Airport Marathon and find a running crew to share good times with along the way.

Visit City of Gold Coast Active & Healthy – Running to find a local running group.