Griffith University is the Presenting Partner of the Gold Coast 2018 Marathon which includes four races — the men’s marathon, women’s marathon, men’s T54 (para) marathon and women’s T54(para) marathon.
An estimated 30,000 spectators are expected to turn out for the GC2018 Marathon on April 15, and as it’s a free event, there will be plenty of viewing spots along the picturesque coastline.
Starting and finishing at the Southport Broadwater Parklands, the course will take athletes to a northern turn (4.4km) at Runaway Bay, on a flat and scenic route to a southern turn (25.3km) at Burleigh Heads, before an exciting final stretch back to Southport for the finish.
The best places to watch the marathon for viewing of both directions of travel are:
- Broadbeach – Kurrawa Park and surrounds
- Surfers Paradise – Cavill Avenue, Esplanade
- Southport Broadwater Parklands – Outside the venue, along the street/park areasup toSundale bridge
Other great areas for viewing one section of the race include:
- Len Fox, Pioneer and Harley Parks – north of the venue
- Burleigh Heads – Justin’s Park (this is at the southern turn)
Adding to the exciting atmosphere Griffith University staff members will distribute ‘clappers’ for spectators to use when cheering on the runners.
Fans can also watch the marathon on the big screen at Chinatown, Southport as part of the CBD Street Party or at the Festival Zones in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.
Find a spot: Runaway Bay (6.10am-8.30am), Labrador (6.10am-9.40am), Southport (6.10am-11.15am), Surfers Paradise (6.30am-11am), Broadbeach (6.45am-10.45am), Burleigh Heads (7am-10.15am).
The T54 Wheelchair Marathon, in which men and women will be competing for medals for the time at a Commonwealth Games will start at 6.10am, with the women’s Marathon at 7.20am and the men’s Marathon at 8.15am.