The Gold Coast Marathon 2025 will energise Queensland’s coastline on 5–6 July, drawing elite athletes, passionate runners, and global spectators to one of the world’s most picturesque and high-speed road races. Now in its 45th year, the event is more than a race — it’s a cultural moment for the Gold Coast and a bucket-list marathon for thousands across the globe.
And this year, Bond University’s Bull Sharks are making their presence felt — not just on the university scoreboard, but on the international marathon stage.
Running Strong: Bond University Athletes Gear Up for 2025
Seven Bond University students will take part in this year’s Gold Coast running festival, showcasing a mix of grit, athleticism, and personal ambition.
Sophie Rice, a Doctor of Medicine student, is returning for her fourth Gold Coast Half Marathon. While juggling medical studies and running may seem intense, Sophie thrives on the balance.
“I used to run competitively, but now I just enjoy it. It’s more about personal challenge and staying active,” she says.
Later this year, Sophie will also race in the Wimbledon Half Marathon in the UK. Long term, she dreams of completing all eight World Marathon Majors.
Meanwhile, Canadian-born Nicholas Reimer, studying Physiotherapy, is stepping up to run his first full marathon.
“I’ve done some half marathons before, but this is the first time I’m going the full distance,” he says. “The Gold Coast course is flat and beautiful — a perfect debut setting.”
For Alexander Dunster, a Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science student, this marks marathon number three. Having already completed races in the Sunshine Coast and Noosa, Alexander says the challenge never gets old.
“I didn’t think I’d ever run a full marathon. But once you do a half, it’s like — you’re halfway there already!”
They’ll be joined by fellow Bull Sharks Aymen Alhilali, Sam Richards, Morgan Roberts, and Savannah Stevenson, all competing as part of the UniSport Nationals, which coincide with the marathon weekend.
Scenic Views, Fast Times: Why the Gold Coast Marathon 2025 Is Unmissable
From Main Beach to Burleigh Heads, the Gold Coast Marathon 2025 offers more than postcard-perfect views — it provides world-class race conditions. With a flat, sea-level course, mild winter temperatures (between 10–20°C), and passionate local crowds, the marathon is ideal for personal bests.
The event features several race categories:
- Gold Coast Marathon (42.195 km) – Sunday, 6 July 2025
- Gold Coast Half Marathon (21.097 km) – Saturday, 5 July 2025
- 10km Run – Saturday, 5 July
- 5km Fun Run – Sunday, 6 July
- Junior Dash Races – Saturday, 5 July
Each event starts at the Broadwater Parklands in Southport and winds along the Gold Coast Highway, offering runners views of iconic Surfers Paradise, ocean breezes, and enthusiastic supporters.
Gold Coast Marathon Scenic View
Global Prestige with Local Spirit
A World Athletics Label Road Race, the Gold Coast Marathon attracts over 28,000 runners from across Australia, New Zealand, the UK, the US, and Asia-Pacific nations. Whether you’re chasing a qualifying time for the Boston Marathon, raising money for charity, or just ticking an item off your bucket list, this is a runner’s dream event.
International interest is especially high due to the event’s mid-winter timing — a welcome escape from the Northern Hemisphere’s sweltering summer.
Elite Athletes on the Radar
While the elite athlete list is yet to be finalised, organisers have hinted at potential appearances from Tokyo and Paris Olympic runners, alongside returning champions like Lisa Weightman (Australia) and Elijah Kipchirchir (Kenya), who claimed the top spot in 2024
This sets the stage for a thrilling competition between world-class professionals and rising university talent — including Bond’s Bull Sharks.
Lisa Weightman– Spotlight in Gold Coast Marathon 2025
A Celebration of Health, Community & Sustainability
The Gold Coast Marathon 2025 isn’t just about times and trophies. It’s a community-first event that promotes healthy living, inclusivity, and sustainability.
- Wheelchair and accessible categories will be available across the marathon and half-marathon events.
- The marathon is once again aiming for a carbon-conscious footprint, with initiatives including public transport discounts, waste reduction, and plastic-free hydration stations.
- Runners can support major charities like Beyond Blue, The Smith Family, and Cancer Council Queensland, turning every kilometre into a contribution.
What the Marathon Means for Bond and Beyond
Bond University’s involvement goes beyond athletic pride — it reflects the institution’s focus on holistic student development. With dedicated support for high-performance sports, the university nurtures not just scholars but leaders, athletes, and changemakers.
As Bull Shark Nicholas Reimer puts it:
“There’s something special about running with your uni mates, representing your school, and pushing your limits on such a grand stage. It’s unforgettable.”
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Final Word
Whether you’re flying in from London, New York, or Melbourne, the Gold Coast Marathon 2025 offers the perfect blend of competition, community, and coastal charm. With Bond University’s Bull Sharks leading a wave of new participants, the event continues to grow as a beacon of international athleticism and local pride.
Mark your calendar for 5–6 July 2025, lace up your shoes, and get ready to run where the sun meets the sea.