The Gold Coast Marathon
More than 16,000 people from around the world are set to ‘Embrace The Next Step’ and participate in the 30th annual Gold Coast Airport Marathon on Sunday 6 July 2008. There is an event for all ages and fitness levels including the 42.2km Marathon, 21.1km Half Marathon, 10km Run, 7.5km Walk and Junior Dash races for the kids over 2.25km and 4km. Regarded as the premier marathon in Australia, the Gold Coast Airport Marathon is also recognised worldwide for its fast, flat and scenic course and technical excellence. It is also the largest annual community sporting event held on the Gold Coast.
Yet there is an event for everyone from elite runners to social walkers, juniors to seniors, abled and disabled, and individuals to corporate groups, all striving for personal achievement and satisfaction. All finishers receive a commemorative medallion and shirt, with many other rewards also provided in each event. Tens of thousands of spectators line the scenic course along with roving musicians and entertainers, creating an amazing atmosphere to help inspire and motivate the 16,000 participants.
This entertainment and atmosphere along with other social events including the Asics Sport & Leisure Expo and Legends Motivational Carbo Lunch ensure participants and supporters maximise their Gold Coast Airport Marathon experience.
History of the Race
In January 1978 the Rotary Club of Surfers Paradise's Community Services Director, John Goldstein, visualised a Marathon Runners Club. A community service project to help the Gold Coast community become fitter, the clinic's aim was to train sedentary non-runners to be able to complete a marathon run within twelve months.
After seeking information from local sources including the National Fitness Council, National Heart Foundation and the Honolulu Marathon Clinic, the first Marathon Clinic was held on April 30, 1978.
By mid 1978, an average of 60 people were attending the marathon clinics. Those who were considered to be marathon prospects were given a special training plan which included extensive daily road training and time trials. It was then decided to go ahead with plans for a 1979 marathon.
After less than eight weeks hard work, the inaugural Gold Coast Marathon was held on September 2nd, 1979. Participating were 124 marathoners, 144 half marathoners and 423 fun runners. Melbourne's Eric Sigmont won the men's marathon in 2:28:44. Mary Murison won the women's race in 2:58:17. As the technical organiser, Dusty Lewis ran the first marathon wearing Runner number 1.