Gold Coast major event history has been made just days out from this weekend’s Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 July Gold Coast Marathon presented by ASICS.

A record 30,000 plus entrants will face the starter for the ASICS Marathon, Half Marathon, Southern Cross University 10km Run, CPL Wheelchair races, Gold Coast Airport 5km the Wheelchair 4km and the Gold Coast Bulletin 4km and 2km Junior Dash races.

The 2024 fields easily eclipse the previous best of 28,199 from 2012 with more than 10,000 lacing up for the ASICS Marathon and Half Marathon on race weekend smashing records in both races.

Such is the popularity of the signature marathon event that it was the first to sell out, forcing organisers back to the drawing board to work with key stakeholders to determine a safe alternate course which allowed another 4,000 participants to compete.

And to top off a sterling year for the increasingly popular event a record number of national and international brand event partners and supporters stepped up to be a part of the action.

Minister for Tourism and Sport Michael Healy says this is a testament to Queensland’s status as a premier sporting and lifestyle destination.

“The Gold Coast Marathon has once again proven its status as a world-class event, breaking records and drawing an unprecedented number of participants.

“The surge in entries this year highlights the event’s growing popularity and its significance on both the national and international stages.

“This marathon is not just a race, it’s a celebration of community, endurance, and the beautiful surroundings of the Gold Coast.

“The economic impact of the Gold Coast Marathon is substantial, with participants and spectators contributing $37 million to our local visitor economy last year.

“We’re thrilled to welcome athletes from around the globe to experience our stunning marathon course and the exceptional hospitality and natural beauty of the Gold Coast.

“Congratulations to all involved in making this event a resounding success.”

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate says he’s elated.

“Runners are voting with their feet, with 30,000 entries received for this year’s marathon,” Mayor Tate said.

“There is no better place to go for your own personal best than on the spectacular Gold Coast course, which showcases our amazing city to the world.

“This iconic event continues to grow and is going from strength to strength, and well done to all involved,” he said.

Events Management Queensland Chair Paul Donovan said they were very proud of the multiple records achieved this year.

“To have more than 30,000 people participating and many thousands cheering from the sidelines over race weekend is a wonderful celebration of this city’s iconic event.

“From humble beginnings in 1979 with just 124 runners the Gold Coast Marathon has grown in size and stature on the world sporting stage.

“This milestone is a celebration and comes with heartfelt thanks to Events Management Queensland and the many thousands of volunteers, marathon operations teams, partners, supporters, thousands of athletes and importantly the Gold Coast community,  who have all contributed to its success.

“The Gold Coast Marathon presented by ASICS showcases the city and our impeccable event delivery capabilities and with thousands also coming from overseas, it reinforces Queensland’s credentials in the lead up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” he said.

Events Management Queensland CEO Ben Mannion said all is on track for a weekend like no other.

“Our race precinct build is nearing completion, our international competitors are starting to arrive, and all the indicators are that we’ll see plenty of records broken on course as well.

“This is an exciting and historic year for the Gold Coast Marathon.

“And to the 30,000 people who will pound the streets over the weekend they should know that they are part of history, and it doesn’t get more special than that,” he said.