Press Release - Gold Coast Marathon - 2/15/23

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


       Gold Coast Marathon entries open with increased international 
         participation expected and a special discount for locals  

Entries for the 2023 Gold Coast Marathon open today with a surge in 
international participation expected and a special incentive for locals to 
be a part of the 1-2 July race weekend.

Providing an important boost to Queensland's tourism and event economy with 
an economic impact in the vicinity of $30 million the event is expected to 
attract more than 22,000 participants.

And as a thank you to Gold Coasters who have supported the event in the 
past and to encourage locals who haven't entered to give it a go, a 
discount of 20% on every event will apply to those who register before the 
28 April 2023 early bird entry deadline.

Queensland Tourism and Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the 2023 
Gold Coast Marathon was seeing strong interest from international 
competitors.

"First run in 1979 and with its stunning Queensland beachside location, the 
Gold Coast Marathon has an esteemed history as one of the world's great 
marathons," Mr Hinchliffe said.

"Early interest from Southeast Asia, Japan and New Zealand suggests 2023 
will be the Gold Coast Marathon's year of recovery and that's terrific news 
for tourism operators.

"When tens of thousands of interstate and international competitors, family 
and support crew come to the Gold Coast for the marathon they also support 
tourism and accommodation and hospitality providers.

"Strong overseas support for the Gold Coast Marathon is an important 
catalyst for international tourism recovery and that's why the Queensland 
Government continues to back this iconic event."          

City of Gold Coast Mayor, Tom Tate welcomed the news that entries to the 
city's oldest and most iconic mass participation sporting event had opened 
and urged people to get in early and start training for one of the eight 
races contested over the weekend.

"And I commend Events Management Queensland for offering locals a discount 
to enter and encourage past and new residents to get in quick and take 
advantage of the very special offer.

"This event provides a unique opportunity for people of all ages and 
abilities to participate in the same races as some of the world's greatest 
athletes on a world-famous course that showcases the destination in all its 
glory.

"I am looking forward to seeing thousands of overseas and interstate 
visitors heading to the city to join Gold Coasters to participate and enjoy 
an exciting, sporting holiday experience," Mayor Tate said.
 
EMQ Chair Paul Donovan said they were buoyed by the early interest from 
international teams and elite athletes.

"We are confident the event will enjoy a return to the pre-COVID halcyon 
days this year with strong entry numbers and a friendly and encouraging 
community, supporting runners along the course over marathon weekend.

"The introduction of a discounted entry for locals is our way of saying 
thank you for supporting this event since its inception in 1979 and 
contributing in so many ways to its success and recognition as a 
world-class event. 

"We are grateful to have a fantastic suite of sponsors on board again this 
year and we are collectively looking forward to delivering a spectacular 
experience for the thousands of participants from all over Australia and 
the world," Mr Donovan said.

The 2023 Gold Coast Marathon weekend will also feature the ASICS Half 
Marathon, Southern Cross University 10km Run, Gold Coast Airport 5km Run, 
the Health and Wellbeing Queensland 2km and 4km Junior Dashes and the CPL 
marathon and 10km wheelchair races.

The Gold Coast Double 63.3km event – contested by hardy runners competing 
in both Saturday's half and Sunday's full marathon - will also be 
contested.

People wanting further information on the 2023 Gold Coast Marathon events 
can visit www.goldcoastmarathon.com.au

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