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Running is all the rage right now – and the record-breaking 123,000 hopefuls who entered the 2026 Sydney Marathon ballot are the ultimate proof. Race day is closing in fast for the lucky 51,000 athletes selected to run this year’s 42.195-kilometre event, representing an impressive 117 countries.
Our Australian Editor Melissa Woodley had the time of her life running the Sydney Marathon during its monumental 2025 debut as a World Marathon Major. To help you prepare for the big day, she’s sharing her top tips – covering everything from your race-day kit to what to expect at the start line.
1. Practice in your race-day kit
Black toes, chafing, blisters, cramps – marathons are hardcore (and so are you!). To prevent discomfort or injury during the race, make sure you’ve logged at least two or three of your longest training runs in your exact race-day kit – shoes, socks, anti-chafing gear and fuel included.
Keep in mind that certain shoes are built to support you across longer distances, like the new ASICS Gel-Kayano 33, and you’ll want to pair them with proper race socks to prevent nasty blisters. And of course, use your practice runs as a chance to test any gels, energy drinks or snacks you plan to fuel with. Trust me, it’ll save you from making unnecessary toilet stops – but more on that later.
2. Rug up for the start line
The Sydney Marathon kicks off on Miller Street in North Sydney, which can be quite cold as it sits in the early morning shadow of skyscrapers. You’ll also be standing around in the winter chill for a while, since you need to arrive well ahead of your official wave time.
To keep warm while you wait, I recommend buying a second-hand sweater from Vinnies or wearing an old pair of pyjamas. You can strip it off right before you race – the organisers collect all left-behind clothing and donate it to charities.
3. Prepare for the toilet queues
The toilet situation is arguably the biggest concern for runners ahead of race day – and I won’t lie, the lines at the start line are long. To calm those pre-race nerves, arrive at least an hour before your scheduled start time. This gives you plenty of time to queue up without panicking. Just bring a few spare tissues as the toilet paper disappears fast.
It’s worth noting that runners are required to enter their designated race chute roughly 30 minutes before the gun goes off, and there are no toilets inside these holding zones.
4. Run smarter, not necessarily harder
While the Sydney Marathon technically has the most elevation of any World Major, those 313 metres are spread out in a series of short undulations rather than a few massive hills. Make sure to conserve some energy for a few surprise inclines in Centennial Park. This loop was the most challenging part of the race for me as the crowds noticeably thin out. You’ll also need to dig deep for the last three kilometres as you enter the Royal Botanic Garden and face the gnarly hill around Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. Just visualise the Opera House ahead – arguably the most beautiful finish line in the world.
5. Remember your why
Marathons aren’t easy – if they were, the other 99 per cent of the population would’ve finished one. While it sounds cliché, crossing the finish line isn't the real victory. Your true sense of achievement should come from the months of training and mental battles you’ve overcome to reach the start line.
When you’re in the hurt locker, remind yourself how lucky you are to run one of the greatest marathons on Earth with 51,000 strong strangers from around the world.