Thousands Set to Conquer the Iconic Harbour Bridge as the Auckland Marathon Celebrates its 30th Anniversary
This weekend Auckland will host New Zealand’s first marathon of the year when over 8,000 athletes run the city for the Auckland Marathon on Sunday 23 January.
Postponed from its original date in October 2021, the Auckland Marathon is celebrating its 30th anniversary and will once again offer participants the chance to run or walk over the Auckland Harbour Bridge and take in the best views of the city – an experience that has been an integral part of the event since its 1992 inception.
Athletes taking part in the ASB Marathon, Barfoot & Thompson Half Marathon and John West 11km Traverse will all make their way from their respective North Shore start lines along the Busway from Smales Farm Bus Station, across the iconic Harbour Bridge and to the finish in Victoria Park.
Amy MacCormack, Regional Director for The IRONMAN Group Oceania, said everyone is excited to get an event underway after a COVID-19 impacted 2021.
“The ASB Auckland Marathon team couldn’t be happier to finally deliver a major event here in New Zealand, an occasion that will be made extra special by the 30th anniversary celebrations of this iconic and much-loved event,” said MacCormack.
“I’m sure the feeling of excitement and anticipation is matched by our athletes who I can’t commend enough for sticking to their training and goals throughout periods of uncertainty. It’ll all be worth it once they get to their start line, run through the streets of Auckland and take in the views of the city from the Harbour Bridge.”
Some athletes participating in the Auckland Marathon have an added incentive on race day, motivated by their work as Charity Superstars, training and raising money and awareness for nine official charities aligned with the event. Nearly 8,000 donators have raised over $300,000 so far.
MacCormack wishes all those taking part a safe and successful race.
“We can’t wait to see the running community back together in their thousands and hope that all athletes have a great experience at the ASB Auckland Marathon,” said MacCormack. “Good luck to all participants. Remember to hydrate well, adhere to pre-event COVID-19 safety measures and most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy the moment as you make memories that will last a lifetime.”
With Auckland currently in the orange setting of the Government’s COVID-19 Protection Framework, the Auckland Marathon is a My Vaccine Pass mandated event and organisers have implemented several COVID Safe measures for the event including COVID Tracer App QR codes and hand sanitisers stationed at all major entrances and exits of the event and enhanced cleaning.
