Gold Coast Marathon Legends Club
Runners who have competed in 10 or more Gold Coast Marathons are eligible for the Gold Coast Marathon Legends Club. The Legends Club recognises and honours the achievements of ‘long-running’ Gold Coast Marathon participants.
Upcoming Gold Coast Marathon Legends must notify organisers of their eligibility when registering for the 2024 event. Entries for the Legends Club must be completed prior to Wednesday 31st May in order to be eligible for induction in 2024. For additional details or enquiries please contact sportservices@goldcoastevents.com.au.
Please note: Virtual Event results from 2021 – 2024 will count towards legends club milestones, however, induction must be completed in person.
Meet your legends
Get to know some of the Gold Coast Marathon Legends Club inductees and learn why they love running the Gold Coast Marathon:
Bruce ‘Digger’ Hargreaves
First Gold Coast Marathon
1983
Total runs
18
Most memorable moment and year
The year I ran my fastest marathon ever (2:47:02) in 1989.
Favourite part of the course
The last 1km of the course, which is lined with tents belonging to various running clubs, which creates an atmosphere which is unique in Australian marathons.
Why do you run Gold Coast?
It is my ‘home marathon’ and I have treated it as such since moving to south east Queensland in 1983 and local races need supporting.
Antony ‘Antman’ Rickards
First Gold Coast Marathon
2001
Total runs
10
Most memorable moment and year
In 2006, I represented the Victorian State Team and was a member of the winning team with Lee Troop and Rowan Walker.
Favourite part of the course
Around 15 – 25km heading north. It’s a super-fast section of the course!
Why do you run Gold Coast?
Great location and fast, flat course.
Craig ‘Bomber’ Hendry
First Gold Coast Marathon
2003
Total runs
15
Most memorable moment and year
2009. The year of my personal best time of 4:27:32.
Favourite part of the course
Running along the water in Surfers Paradise.
Why do you run Gold Coast?
Perfect for tying in a family holiday.
Glen ‘Glendry’ Hendry
First Gold Coast Marathon
2003
Total runs
15
Most memorable moment and year
2009 where I ran my personal best time of 3:28:38.
Favourite part of the course
Running along the water past Surfers Paradise.
Why do you run Gold Coast?
Flat, fast and big turn out!
Graeme ‘Macca’ McLennan
First Gold Coast Marathon
1980
Total runs
36
Most memorable moment and year
Every year has been memorable as my dear wife, Tricia has been at the end of every one. One stand out was in 2010 when I overtook a lady at the 41km mark. She was clearly distressed and I said “Come on, you are almost there!” and thought no more about it. After the race the lady and her husband thanked me for the encouragement, I was really touched.
Favourite part of the course
The finish line! And, the last kilometre with all the spectator support.
Why do you run Gold Coast?
It’s the place I ran my first marathon, it’s a beautiful place to run. It’s where I have run all my marathons and it is so well organised.
Peter ‘Parrapete’ Fitzgerald
First Gold Coast Marathon
1990
Total runs
10
Most memorable moment and year
Every year, coming over the bridge into the finish straight and hearing the crowd. Knowing then that you have succeeded, feeling the adrenaline rush and becoming emotional.
Favourite part of the course
I always enjoyed the final turnaround at Burleigh Heads, knowing this was the final straight leg. Also, the crowd there always gave runners a rousing cheer-along.
Why do you run Gold Coast?
Initially I travelled up to the Gold Coast after running two Melbourne Marathons. I was attracted by the ocean location and warmer climate. The next year (1991) I moved to Tweed Heads with work and the Gold Coast Marathon became part of my DNA, having fallen in love with the event, not to mention trying to achieve a PB which I ultimately did going under 3hr 45m before my fiftieth birthday.
Hema Ekanayake
First Gold Coast Marathon
2006
Total runs
10
Most memorable moment and year
I lost my dad in early 2014 and dedicated the 2014 run to his memory. Amazingly I ended up having the exact same finish time as 2013 which was 4:03:16.
Favourite part of the course
Albatross Avenue as the narrow road allows a good view of the elites running back.
Why do you run Gold Coast?
One thing about the Goldie is you can bank on getting great weather on the day. Each year the crowd support grows, they really do get behind you. A flat course just down the highway is an added bonus.
Joan Darlington
First Gold Coast Marathon
1987
Total runs
20
Most memorable moment and year
I ran my 20th marathon in 2009 and was given number 20 to wear for the race. I ran and walked in the finish chute to the finish line to soak up all the cheering, clapping and high fives. I was then presented with my 20 year memorabilia by Steve Moneghetti. It was a wonderful atmosphere and very emotional.
Favourite part of the course
The course has changed over the years, but the last 5km of the event is always special as you feel a sense of achievement.
Diana ‘Di’ McKenzie
First Gold Coast Marathon
1998
Total runs
10
Most memorable moment and year
My training in 1998 went really well and I wanted to run 6m km pace which I achieved running 4:11 for my first marathon.
Favourite part of the course
Running along Narrowneck.
Why do you run Gold Coast?
It’s my home and I wouldn’t be anywhere else.
Peter ‘Macca’ McKenzie
First Gold Coast Marathon
1986
Total runs
31
Most memorable moment and year
In 1989 I had a car accident on the way to the start. I was a bit shaken, but ended up running my fastest Gold Coast Marathon in 2hour 59min!
Favourite part of the course
Coming into the finish chute.
Why do you run Gold Coast?
Loyalty!
Alison ‘Ali’ Coleman
First Gold Coast Marathon
1980
Total runs
33
Most memorable moment and year
2014. I was the first woman to run 30 Gold Coast Marathons and I just wanted to enjoy the experience with no pressure, so it was a totally enjoyable experience.
Favourite part of the course
Coming up to the finish line and crossing it!
Why do you run Gold Coast?
It’s the best ever, non can compare!
Graeme ‘Kirka’ Kirkpatrick
First Gold Coast Marathon
2001
Total runs
10
Most memorable moment and year
2008 when I ran with my brother.
Favourite part of the course
The last 2km.
Why do you run Gold Coast?
Home town support, flat and picturesque.
Christine McDougall
First Gold Coast Marathon
1995
Total runs
10 (plus many halves and a few 10kms)
Most memorable moment and year
My first in 1995. It was the unexpected and was also my first ever marathon.
Favourite part of the course
Once you’ve crossed the bridge with 2km to go.
Why do you run Gold Coast?
I live here.
Parmy Atcheson
First Gold Coast Marathon
2006
Total runs
11
Most memorable moment and year
First and tenth! First, as it was the first time I had ever ran the marathon distance and I shared the last few kilometres of my journey with my son. And the tenth because I achieved my personal goal of running 10 consecutive Gold Coast Marathons and so many friends and family that had joined in my 10 year journey came back to support or run my 10th with me.
Favourite part of the course
Around the 32km marker when we run back past the start/finish area just outside Rays Resort. Each year my children, family and running friends set up a supporters table on the side line with balloons, signs and treats and as I come past they give me lots of cheers. I love seeing their faces!
Why do you run Gold Coast?
Such a well organised event, a beautiful course and it forces me to train during winter.
Christine Jackson
First Gold Coast Marathon
1999
Total runs
10
Most memorable moment and year
2008 when I completed my 10th marathon.
Favourite part of the course
Burleigh Esplanade.
Why do you run Gold Coast?
It’s in my hometown. I see lots of friends on the course.
Virginia ‘Ginny’ Salmon
First Gold Coast Marathon
2001
Total runs
17…so far!
Most memorable moment and year
2007. I ran the marathon whilst pregnant with twins (with my doctors consent of course)! My first marathon is equally ranked as most memorable. I think we all know that the sheer joy of finishing such an iconic distance for the very first time can simply never be erased.
Favourite part of the course
Heading towards the 39km mark – you can see the Grand Hotel (almost time for a beer), hear the music blasting and you know that no matter how much yo are hurting you WILL finish!
Why do you run Gold Coast?
Why not? Great course and atmosphere. What more could you ask for?!
Richard Willis
First Gold Coast Marathon
1991
Total runs
14
Most memorable moment and year
2004. I ran my Gold Coast Marathon personal best time of 3h 12min while only aiming for a 3h 30min finish.
Favourite part of the course
The first out and back section.
Why do you run Gold Coast?
It’s well organised, flat and close to Armidale.
Suzy Smith
First Gold Coast Marathon
1998
Total runs
10
Most memorable moment and year
Finishing my 10th Gold Coast Marathon in 2014
Favourite part of the course
Running the last 2km of the race and heading towards the finish line
Why do you run Gold Coast?
Love the scenery and the great atmospheres and the crowd support
Geoff ‘GG’ Williams
First Gold Coast Marathon
1988
Total runs
29
Most memorable moment and year
My first Gold Coast Marathon in 1988
Favourite part of the course
Always crossing the finishing line and seeing my mates at turns.
Why do you run Gold Coast?
It’s close & convenient. I’ve been doing it for so long, I have come to know the ropes.
Kevin Wild
First Gold Coast Marathon
1993
Total runs
20
Most memorable moment and year
They have all been great. The bit I like is the last 195 metres of the course.
Favourite part of the course
The last km where there are lots of people cheering you on and then with about 200metes to go you see the finish line.
Why do you run Gold Coast?
The course is flat and very scenic and it has also been a great family holiday destination over the years.
How many years do you have left in the legs?
Hope to do 6 more marathons and will then have ran 100 marathons.
Nick Carton
First Gold Coast Marathon
2011
Total runs
10
Most memorable moment and year
2013 as I did my PB, a 3:21 for the full marathon
Favourite part of the course
Running along the Esplanade in Surfers Paradise in front of the Cavill Mall area
Why do you run Gold Coast?
Because it’s flat, amazing scenery, and the perfect place to stay for a GC Marathon long weekend
How many years do you have left in the legs?
To be honest probably my last for the full marathon, half marathons after this one
Jennie Cartwright
First Gold Coast Marathon
2011
Total runs
10
Most memorable moment and year
2017 I ran with my dad.. his first and last marathon. I will never forget the sense of achievement he felt in completing it and that was priceless! 2012 is a close second as I knocked 30minutes off my previous time!
Favourite part of the course
The last few kms when you know you are close and the crowd gets you pumped!
Why do you run Gold Coast?
Love it- the atmosphere… the beach, crowds, weather.
How many years do you have left in the legs?
With the 10 club ticked off surely the next milestone is to make it to the 20 club!
Gerard (Ged) Timbs
First Gold Coast Marathon
2007
Total runs
10
Most memorable moment and year
2016. My first sub 3 hour marathon finishing with the best training buddies you could have in Krishna, Dan and Matt.
Any years you would prefer to forget and why?
2014. Pacing my wife, Jo, for sub 4hours and running 4:02. We made amends the next year running 3:59:23.
Favourite part of the course
The finish!
Why do you run Gold Coast?
Flat. A great time of the year in Queensland and it is usually around my birthday too so we make the most of the weekend.
How many years do you have left in the legs?
This will be my last marathon. I have now had 2 knee surgeries. The surgeon told me 10 years ago after the first operation to stick to 10km. Last December when I went back to see him again he asked what I had been doing and I told him I had run 12 marathons in the 10 years since I saw him last. He fell off his chair.
Darrell Giles (Gilesy or DG)
First Gold Coast Marathon
2007
Total runs
10
Most memorable moment and year
2012: ran the half marathon in an all-time record 1.22 aged 50, to finish 150th out of more than 10,000 runners
Any years you would prefer to forget and why?
2013: missed my one and only GCM in 15 years because of family reasons … I should have just run it
Favourite part of the course
The turn-around at Burleigh, you can smell the bacon & eggs and coffee from the cafes, that’s when the race begins
Why do you run Gold Coast?
The best location for a long run anywhere in the world
How many years do you have left in the legs?
At least another 10 GCM marathons in my legs, want to join the 20 year legends
Nick (Emperor) Carton
First Gold Coast Marathon
2011
Total runs
10
Most memorable moment and year
2013, got my PB of 3:21 for the Full Mara.
Any years you would prefer to forget and why?
2015 as I broke my toe one week before the race, made for a very painful run.
Favourite part of the course
Apart from the finish line, running through Surfers Paradise past Cavill Mall.
Why do you run Gold Coast?
Flat course and the best holiday spot in Australia.
How many years do you have left in the legs?
Might be my 10th and last as I’m turning 50 this year and it doesn’t get any easier.
Stuart (Database) Conn
First Gold Coast Marathon
2012
Total runs
10
Most memorable moment and year
2012 was such an amazing experience that I made the call that I’d return each year to compete in the event, I loved the place so much that by 2019 I’d made the decision to make the Goldcoast my home.
Any years you would prefer to forget and why?
There’s no years that I’d prefer to regret, some races haven’t worked out as well as I’d have liked but that’s what can happen with marathons.
Favourite part of the course
There’s so many different aspects of the course that I couldn’t narrow it down to 1 favourite part, you’ve got the awesome ocean views along the esplanade down to Burleigh Heads and back but then you’ve got the amazing crowds that line the streets(especially around the start/finish area).
Why do you run Gold Coast?
The Gold Coast marathon festival is the biggest and best running event in Australia, why wouldn’t you want to be a part of it.
How many years do you have left in the legs?
I’m not sure how many more years my legs can keep going but I’d like to think I’ve got a few more left in me.
David Harris
First Gold Coast Marathon
1982
Total runs
10 Marathon, 20 Half Marathon
Most memorable moment and year
2020, at the start there was a lady who was in a state of panic. I decided I’d be with her for the whole distance. She kept saying, “I can’t do it” but I kept encouraging her, and we did finish, in 6 hours, 20 minutes. It was a beautiful feeling knowing that if it wasn’t for me, she would not have finished.
Any years you would prefer to forget and why?
My first and third attempts, and there was also a year when I had a seizure and ended up in Hospital!
Favourite part of the course
The last 1 km. I think, “I have done the training, I’ve struggled, but I’m going to complete it! I’m the runner, who, every year, whips myself to the finish! It helps me run faster and as bizarre as it may sound, I use horse racing tactics when I run.
Why do you run Gold Coast?
l’ve lived here all my 64 years.
How many years do you have left in the legs?
Well, as I’ve told lots of people, the way I want to die is when I’m aged 104 running in the marathon.
Andrea Pugh
First Gold Coast Marathon
2013
Total runs
10
Most memorable moment and year
2017 – fastest Marathon
Any years you would prefer to forget and why?
Every marathon is worth remembering!
Favourite part of the course
The blue carpet at the end!
Why do you run Gold Coast?
Great atmosphere with friendly runners and volunteers!
How many years do you have left in the legs?
I hope to keep being active and mobile for the rest of my life:)
Steve O’Keeffe (SOK)
First Gold Coast Marathon
2011
Total runs
10
Most memorable moment and year
Each year has been memorable in its own way, but my first marathon in 2011 is probably top of my list. Fulfilling such a longtime goal was amazing, and finishing with my oldest running buddy Cam by my side was very special.
Any years you would prefer to forget and why?
2014 was the year I learned the hard lesson about what happens if you haven’t put the right level of training in. I ended up in a world of hurt from 25km, and it remains my slowest ever time. But I don’t ever want to forget it because I don’t ever want to repeat it! It was a very formative experience.
Favourite part of the course
There’s lots to love! I always get a buzz from the start precinct and the first km or so, and love the scenery and energy at Burleigh. Coming past the Grand on your way back south is always special because my family and friends traditionally wait there to cheer me on when I need it most. Going past my Aunty Dorothy’s place at Labrador always perks me up. Oh, and turning off the highway into the finishing chute is always a highlight too!
Why do you run Gold Coast?
I grew up on the coast, so it’s a glorious convenience to have a world class event on the doorstep! The whole weekend is an annual highlight for me and my family who often do the shorter events. The event execution is flawless year on year, and the volunteers are great. And the course itself is incredible; it’s still my favourite place to meet up with the legends of the Beachpoint Run Club for a long training run year round.
How many years do you have left in the legs?
Hopefully a lot! 10 years seemed to sneak up on me, I’m sure 20 is just around the corner…
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