The Sydney Marathon has introduced guaranteed entry for local runners for the 2027 race under one condition: they must have completed at least 10 prior Sydney Marathons.
The change comes as the event's popularity has surged, particularly in the past two years after the marathon was granted world major status. Once a race with only 3000 or 4000 participants, more than 123,000 people now enter the general ballot for 40,000 places, with Australians competing against runners from 139 other countries.
The marathon has long recognised a group of just under 100 runners known as the Bridge Club, consisting of athletes who have run at least 10 previous Sydney Marathons. Before this year, benefits were limited to free merchandise and having their names listed on the event website. There was no need for guaranteed entry before major status because there was no risk of missing out.
But the surge in popularity meant even Bridge Club members started missing out. In response to their dismay last year, race organisers said they were revising the ballot. Now, 100 spots have been set aside for Bridge Club members ahead of the general ballot closing on Monday. Because the club's membership is currently less than 100, all will be guaranteed a spot for 2027.
The privilege had previously only been extended to an even more exclusive club of six runners, known as the Blue Line Legends, who have run every race since 2001.