Typical Conditions
Cool late-winter conditions
Event Overview
The TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS takes place across race weekend on 29–30 August 2026 in Sydney, New South Wales. The program includes a 42.2km marathon and 10km road race on Sunday 30 August, with the 5km Mini Marathon held the day prior on Saturday 29 August. The marathon starts from Miller St in North Sydney and finishes at the Sydney Opera House Forecourt. It is listed as a World Athletics Platinum Label Marathon and is recognised as an Abbott World Marathon Major, with the marathon carrying a published course cut-off of 7 hours.
What the Course Demands
This is a road-based event through central Sydney landmarks, with the marathon advertised as crossing the Sydney Harbour Bridge and finishing at the Opera House Forecourt. The organisers list an overall elevation gain of 313m for the marathon distance, indicating regular changes in gradient rather than a uniformly flat profile, while the 10km and 5km also use sealed city roads with rolling sections. Logistics across distances include assigned start groups and a rolling start approach, which can influence early pacing, positioning, and race rhythm in large fields.
Who This Event Suits Best
This event suits runners preparing for a major-city race format, whether targeting the full 42.2km under a formal cut-off time or opting for the 10km or 5km distances. It will appeal to athletes who execute well in large fields with managed start procedures and who can remain composed through variable terrain and crowded conditions. The structure allows for participation from first-time runners through to experienced marathoners, provided pacing reflects the elevation profile and event scale
Preparing for This Event
If you are considering this event and want some structure around your preparation, a targeted training plan can help you arrive feeling confident rather than underprepared. The aim is not to train harder, but to train in a way that suits the distance, terrain, and likely conditions of the course.
Choosing a plan is optional, but having structure can remove uncertainty and make training easier to repeat week to week. The best option is the one that fits your current fitness, available time, and experience level.
Distances & Categories
| Category | Format / Distances | Prep Time | Level |
| Saturday: Mini Marathon |
5km |
6 Weeks |
Beginner |
| Sunday: Marathon |
42.2km |
20 Weeks |
Advanced |
| Sunday: 10km |
10km |
10 Weeks |
Beginner |
Event Map
Please note: the map location may be approximate. Refer to the event website for start lines and course maps.
Training Tips for Running