Sydney Running Festival in Sydney was started in 2001 under the name “Sydney Marathon” when the NSW Government approved that the marathon should continue to promote fitness and health for the NSW community. Many events were added over the next few years and soon renamed the “Sydney Running Festival” in 2005. Various events were implemented for runners of different ages to suit their interests. While running the most scenic courses in the world, the racers can see some of Sydney’s historical and spectacular landmarks enclosing Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.
Apart from the marathon, the event includes a 3.5 kilometre "Family Fun Run," a 10 kilometre "Bridge Run," and a half marathon. The starting point is located at Bradfield Park, Milsons Point. The marathon, half marathon, and Bridge Run end at the Sydney Opera House, while the finish line for the Family Fun Run is at the Royal Botanic Gardens.
The course record (2 hours, 11 minutes and 18 seconds) was achieved in 2014 by Gebo Gameda of Kenya. The Sydney Running Festival is organized and owned by Athletics Australia.
