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Topic:Marathon
Today's marathon is part of the world series for the first time. (ABC News: Berge Breiland)
An estimated 35,000 participants are taking part in the Sydney Marathon today.
This year's race marking Sydney's first under the Abbott World Marathon Majors series.
The Sydney Marathon has participants from more than 150 countries, including elite athletes and Olympians.
An estimated 35,000 participants are taking part in the TCS Sydney Marathon today, with this year's race marking the city's first under the Abbott World Marathon Majors series.
Under clear skies, thousands took to the streets from 6:30am to clock just over 42 kilometres between Miller Street in North Sydney and the Sydney Opera House Forecourt.
An additional 15,00 participants will compete in the Sydney Mini Marathon and 10-kilometre Marathon events.
Kenyan runner and Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge is competing in the marathon, as are a slew of elite athletes from across Australia and the globe.
Runners set off from 6:30am to tackle the 42-kilometre race. (ABC News: Berge Breiland)
TCS Sydney Marathon race director Wayne Larden said the level of athletes descending on Australian shores was "star-studded".
"We have multiple athletes capable of running under the course record [and] rising stars on the brink of global breakthrough," he said.
Numerous every day Aussies who have a passion for running will also be competing, including 65-year-old Gillian Stapleton who is aiming to conquer her 15th marathon.
The marathon is expected to cause some traffic disruptions, with NSW Transport urging people to avoid non-essential travel around North Sydney and the CBD.
In November 2024, it was announced the Sydney Marathon had become the seventh city to join the Abbott World Marathon Majors series, with the elite circuit including marathons in Boston, Tokyo, Berlin, Chicago, London and New York City.
Sydney is the first city in the southern hemisphere to become part of the iconic line-up.
Destination NSW estimated an extra $73 million would be spent by tourists over the next few years as a result of the announcement, and over the next decade, that could grow to as much as $300 million.
The Sydney Marathon has participants from more than 150 countries and has raised over $25 million since it began in 2000 as a legacy of the Sydney Olympics.
The marathon does not have one designated charity but instead partners with a variety of charities, allowing participants to choose a cause they are passionate about to raise funds for.
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