Press Release - Gold Coast Airport Marathon - 12/5/17

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Thousands from around the world to celebrate marathon milestone

Entries for the 40th Gold Coast Marathon opened this morning with more than 
25,000 participants from over 50 countries expected to celebrate the 
event's milestone on 30 June - 1 July 2018.

Events Management Queensland CEO Cameron Hart said the event's 40th edition 
combined with the legacy of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games and the 
growing interest from global markets would result in another 
record-breaking year for the internationally accredited Gold Label Road 
Race.

"The Gold Coast Marathon has passed the test of time and established itself 
as one of the most prestigious marathons in the world since its humble 
beginning in 1979," Mr. Hart said.

"The race was started to benefit the Gold Coast community and 40 years 
later continues to do so as the largest participation sports event in the 
city," he added. "The wellbeing and economic benefits the event delivers 
are staggering."

"Reaching our 40th anniversary in our fifth year as an International 
Association of Athletic Federations Gold Label race reaffirms our position 
as one of the nation's most iconic attractions and we're excited to welcome 
tens of thousands of participants from overseas, interstate and Queensland 
to celebrate the occasion.

"There's a real buzz on the Gold Coast in the lead up to 2018 and we know 
there will be plenty of runners eager to experience our world famous flat, 
fast and scenic course after witnessing the Commonwealth Games marathon 
event in April."

Tourism and Events Queensland Chief Executive Officer Leanne Coddington 
said the event reinforced the Gold Coast's status as a premier sporting 
destination and encouraged fellow Queenslanders to join the 40th 
celebrations.

"The Gold Coast Marathon is an internationally-recognised event which 
provides participants of all ages and abilities a fantastic experience in 
one of the world's most popular holiday destinations," Ms. Coddington said.

"For the past 39 years it has attracted international and interstate 
participants and spectators to the Gold Coast and generated significant 
tourism outcomes for the state.

"The 40th edition will be a unique opportunity to celebrate the event's 
longevity."

The 40th annual Gold Coast Marathon will feature eight races including the 
Gold Coast Marathon, Wheelchair Marathon, ASICS Half Marathon, Wheelchair 
15km, Southern Cross University 10km Run, Gold Coast Airport Fun Run, 
Garmin 4km Junior Dash and Garmin 2km Junior Dash.

The Gold Coast Marathon is organised by Events Management Queensland, a 
major event management company wholly owned by the Queensland Government as 
part of Tourism and Events Queensland.

Visit goldcoastmarathon.com.au for more information.

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