Entries for the 2023 Gold Coast Marathon open today with a surge in international participation expected and a special incentive for locals to be a part of the 1-2 July race weekend.

Providing an important boost to Queensland’s tourism and event economy with an economic impact in the vicinity of $30 million the event is expected to attract more than 22,000 participants.

And as a thank you to Gold Coasters who have supported the event in the past and to encourage locals who haven’t entered to give it a go, a discount of 20% on every event will apply to those who register before the 28 April 2023 early bird entry deadline.

Queensland Tourism and Sport 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.

“When tens of thousands of interstate and international competitors, family and support crew come to the Gold Coast for the marathon they also support tourism and accommodation and hospitality providers.

“Strong overseas support for the Gold Coast Marathon is an important catalyst for international tourism recovery and that’s why the Queensland Government continues to back this iconic event.”

City of Gold Coast Mayor, Tom Tate welcomed the news that entries to the city’s oldest and most iconic mass participation sporting event had opened and urged people to get in early and start training for one of the eight races contested over the weekend.

“And I commend Events Management Queensland for offering locals a discount to enter and encourage past and new residents to get in quick and take advantage of the very special offer.

“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.

“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.

EMQ Chair Paul Donovan said they were buoyed by the early interest from international teams and elite athletes.

“We are confident the event will enjoy a return to the pre-COVID halcyon days this year with strong entry numbers and a friendly and encouraging community, supporting runners along the course over marathon weekend.

“The introduction of a discounted entry for locals is our way of saying thank you for supporting this event since its inception in 1979 and contributing in so many ways to its success and recognition as a world-class event.

“We are grateful to have a fantastic suite of sponsors on board again this year and we are collectively looking forward to delivering a spectacular experience for the thousands of participants from all over Australia and the world,” Mr Donovan said.

The 2023 Gold Coast Marathon weekend will also feature the ASICS Half Marathon, Southern Cross University 10km Run, Gold Coast Airport 5km Run, the Health and Wellbeing Queensland 2km and 4km Junior Dashes and the CPL marathon and 10km wheelchair races.

The Gold Coast Double 63.3km event – contested by hardy runners competing in both Saturday’s half and Sunday’s full marathon – will also be contested.

ENTER