Running for a cause – 7 Sunshine Coast Marathon

More than 8000 competitors are set to take to the streets this weekend as part of the sixth annual 7 Sunshine Coast Marathon to benefit charities, community groups and the local economy.

Tourism, Sport and Major Events Portfolio Councillor Jason O’Pray, who will be contesting the 42.1km race for the first time, said the much loved community event was a celebration of fitness and community spirit.

“The Sunshine Coast has proudly hosted the 7 Sunshine Coast Marathon for the past six years,” Cr O’Pray said.

“It provides an annual economic contribution of $2.7 million to our local region, but more importantly has already raised in excess of $1 million for our local charities and community groups.

“The event is also increasingly attracting visitors from outside of the region who are attracted by the stunning location and flat course which is ideal for an enjoyable run.

“The event also marks the start of a very busy second half of the year for major events, with Motocross, Ironman 70.3, Caloundra Music Festival, Sunshine Coast Fashion Festival and Wanderlust just some of the upcoming events to be staged in the region.”

Event director Jason Crowther said the event aspires to be the largest fundraising marathon event in Australia.

“In 2016, we reached the $1million milestone which was especially important for us,” said Mr Crowther.

“We believe that this festival continues to build into an iconic fundraising and community event, which would not be possible without the continued support of our participants, sponsors, volunteers and Sunshine Coast Council.”

Michelle Pickering, owner of Airlink Transfer, said there were a number of economic benefits to being involved in the popular marathon.

“This is a great local event for us as a local company to be involved in,” Ms Pickering said.

“A lot of people travel to this event and for a local business like ours it provides the opportunity to be visible to many visitors to the region.

“We’re especially looking forward to picking up some of the visiting elite athletes and providing some great hospitality, excellent service and letting them know what a great region we live in.”

For this first time, the event will host the Australian Half Marathon Championships where athletes not only race to win but also for priority status for selection to compete in the green and gold at the IAAF World Half Marathon Championships 2018.

Runners of all ages and abilities are expected to take part in one of the five events on Sunday, August 20.

The community-run festival includes a marathon (42.1km) half-marathon (21km), 10km, 5km and kids 2km and is one of the most loved running festivals in Australia.

All of the event profits go to organisations such as Ronald McDonald House Charities and more than 300 worthwhile causes chosen by participants.

Good weather, low humidity and mild temperatures combined with a flat course should allow for some fast finishing times.

To facilitate the staging of the marathon there will be a number of road closures around Mooloolaba, Alexandra Headlands and Maroochydore.

More information on road closures can be found at www.sunshinecoastmarathon.com.au/event-info/runner-info/road-closures

More information on the whole event can be found at www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/majorevents