The latest addition to the Abbott World Marathon Majors is set to welcome a record-breaking 35,000 runners this August. The route showcases some of Sydney’s most iconic sights beginning in North Sydney, spanning the famous Harbour Bridge, and finishing at the stunning Sydney Opera House.
As race day approaches, it’s completely normal to feel a mix of nerves and excitement. To help you feel confident and prepared, we’ve pulled together everything you need to know for the week.
Check out the official race website for any information related to your bib number or any other specific race day information.
Runna is not affiliated with or endorsed by TCS Sydney Marathon.
🎒 What Should I Pack?
Packing for race day is crucial. Not only is it important to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything vital, but also to get that pre-race buzz going. Here are some things to consider:
Running Kit
Wear your race-day outfit before you set off for the race in the morning. Sydney in late August marks the transition from winter to spring, offering cool and comfortable conditions for running. Temperatures typically range from 9°C to 18°C (48°F to 64°F).
While Sydney’s weather at this time of year can include some rain, it’s usually moderate, with around 8 to 10 rainy days in the month. Showers are typically brief and unlikely to significantly impact the race, creating an ideal environment for marathon runners. Keep this in mind when packing race-day fit options! It's also recommended to wear SPF to protect yourself from the strong sun! Top Tip: pin your race number onto your kit the night before, to save any last-minute stress in the morning.
Sports Nutrition
Pack any gels, chews, or snacks you’ve used in training. There will be gels handed out on the course, but bring your own so you know you're prepared.
A pre-run layer
It’s a good idea to bring an old jumper and perhaps a lightweight waterproof jacket to the start line to stay warm and dry. It can be quite cool early in the morning in Sydney at the end of August, even if the forecast suggests a sunny day ahead. We recommend having a layer you’re happy to discard before you start running. In previous years, these items are often collected at the start line for reuse or recycling, so it’s a practical way to stay comfortable before the race begins.
A post-run layer in the bag drop
Pack a warm top, spare socks, blister plasters, and a recovery snack for after the race.
Electronics
Charge your phone, watch, and headphones the night before. Download any necessary playlists which will get you through those tougher moments.
🤔 Should I Run the Day Before?
Some runners find a short, easy run the day before helps shake out the legs and calm the nerves. If this has worked for you in the past, go for it! If not, consider some light foam rolling or stretching instead. Maybe a walk to keep those legs fresh could also be an option!
We'll be hosting our very own Runna shakeout run on Saturday 30th August! Ease yourself into race weekend and loosen up for the big day ahead.
Details to be shared closer to the time. Stay tuned. 📌
🍝 What should I eat before Sydney Marathon?
During the week leading up to your race, keep it simple with familiar, high-carb foods like pasta, rice, bread, and potatoes to keep energy up and your stomach happy. Carb-loading can help you feel fuelled without overdoing it.
Spread your carbs throughout the day and stick with foods you’ve enjoyed in training. Avoid anything too fatty, spicy, or new—it’s not the time for surprises! Stay well-hydrated and skip alcohol for a good night’s sleep. Rest, hydrate, and feel ready to hit the ground running.
We've got some more information on race week nutrition here.
💪 Final Preparations
Once you're packed, fuelled, and hydrated, consider adding a light mobility session to your bedtime routine. Stretching can help release any tension and prepare you for a restful sleep before race day.
Please refer to your Event Information Pack / email which will contain information regarding your specific starting area, wave number and time.
Make sure to get that alarm set, and we recommend finishing any preparation the night before. The morning will be for fuelling, traveling, and managing that excited/nervous energy!
🚋 How Do I Get to the Start Line?
The 2025 Sydney Marathon kicks off at North Sydney Oval and finishes at the iconic Sydney Opera House.
Getting there is easy with free public transport included in your race entry. Runners in Start Groups A, B, E, and F should head to Victoria Cross or North Sydney Station, while those in Start Groups C and D should use Crows Nest Station. Special event trains will operate early on race day, ensuring smooth access for all participants. We advise planning your journey in advance to ensure for a smooth morning!
Important tip: Avoid driving, as major roads between North Sydney and Kingsford will be closed from 3:30 AM to 3:00 PM.
🗺 Where will I be running?
The race begins in one of the most iconic ways possible, crossing the Sydney Harbour Bridge. What a way to kick off your marathon journey!
The course winds through historic precincts like The Rocks and Circular Quay, the bustling CBD, and the lush Centennial Parklands, before heading into the Eastern Suburbs. Runners then return towards the heart of the city, finishing at the forecourt of the Sydney Opera House. A pretty iconic finish also, if you ask us!
Check out more details about the course from the official website here.
🏃 How Should I Pace Myself on Race Day?
You’ll have the opportunity to fully utilise the race day workout provided by Runna. Expect pacing alerts and audio cues similar to those during your training runs, helping you stay on track. Pacing can be tricky with the excitement of the start line. To avoid going out too fast, practice your race-day routine during your shakeout run. Download your playlists, set up Runna for pace or RPE cues, and ensure your devices are fully charged.
With a flat course, we suggest starting off at a comfortable pace with the aim of a negative split if possible once you've hit that halfway mark. The support along the route is incredible, and you'll truly enjoy the experience! Try not to worry about what other runners are doing, focus on your race, and listen to the crowds who will be rooting for you the whole way round.
Here are a few more tips on marathon pacing for you!
🛰️ How Should I Navigate GPS Issues on the Day?
With so many runners and a busy city environment, GPS signals in Sydney can occasionally be spotty. Stick to your usual method of recording your runs on Runna, and be prepared for a possible delay in uploading your race data. If you encounter issues, save your activity and refresh your app when you have a stronger signal or Wi-Fi.
While the Sydney Marathon course offers plenty of open sections, like the Harbour Bridge, Centennial Parklands, and the Eastern Suburbs, some areas, such as The Rocks, Circular Quay, and the CBD, are lined with tall buildings that may cause brief GPS disruptions. Don't panic, trust your innate pacing from your experiences in training and let things settle during your run!
Check out more tips on how to troubleshoot common GPS issues here too!
🔜 What's Next After the Race?
You did it! Now it's time to celebrate! 🏅
Grab a drink, loosen your shoelaces, and take some time to stretch and enjoy the moment.
Best of luck with your 2025 TCS Sydney Marathon, and most importantly, have fun! You've got this!
Take in the sights and have the best time - we will be with you every step of the way.
Check out the video below for more of our coaches' top tips for race day!