In this Gold Coast Marathon Race Report, coach Ian Whitmore shares his tips on how to be your best on race day and what to expect from this classic and fast Australian marathon. Enjoy!

Race: Gold Coast Marathon

Runner: Coach Ian Whitmore

Race Date: 2 July 2023

Location: Gold Coast, Australia

Results: 3.53

3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?

• The name says it all, this course offers 42.195km of amazing picturesque views of the beaches, coastline and skyline.
• It’s super flat, meaning fast and being IAAF certified, you know its a well organised event.
• Being a holiday destination, the post race atmosphere is amazing.

Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you

At the 31k mark you can briefly see the finish line. That’s mentally tough.

Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?

Not necessarily weird, but watching the surfers wax up there boards ready to hit the waves. You can certainly people watch and get into a flow as you run. Having completed this marathon several times, the race now starts at 6am, (it was 7am). Means the first hour you run is before sunrise, which helps as the heat will kick-in mid morning.

Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?

Knowing the course well, I knew how to pace myself to finish strong. The support and crowds are amazing, and as you run along the finish chute…wow I get goosebumps just thinking about it.

Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner

Be sun-smart. Yes the first hour is before sunrise. But when the sun is up, you want to be protected. So cap and sunscreen is recommended. (Test this on your long runs, as you don’t want stingy eyes). Like every marathon, start slow and steady. Its easy to think I’ll get some K’s under my belt whilst its dark. But you’ll regret it later in the morning.

Lessons you learned that will help you next time around

Not to focus too much on my splits, but live in the mile you are running.

Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race

Be aware at the 31km mark, you get teased as you see sight of the finish line, but you have another 11k to go.

Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?

Yep, 100% – Sun, Sea, Surf, Beaches, City sky views.

Difficulty – Is it a tough course?

Its a flat and fast course. Perfect for a BQ time. But also a great course to complete your first marathon.

Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?

The event is well signposted, organised and IAAF gold standard so you’re in good hands.

Competition – Is there a strong field?

Being an out and back course, you get a chance to see the elites whiz by. Its always a strong field both with Aussies and international runners.

Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.

Super easy, Gold Coast Airport is a 30min cab ride, or a direct one hour train from Brisbane airport. With the gold coast being a tourist destination, you have a plethora of hotels and Airbnb’s to chose from. Free tram to the start line. Its sells out fast, so get cracking.

Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?

Over and above IAAF requirements, with a mix of water/hydrolyte. Also various cheer squads offering flat coke.

Weather and typical race conditions

Beautiful. Mid-winter in Queensland means low humidity, calm winds and cool/mild temperatures.

Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?

Sunscreen

Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?

This is a community event, and there are crowds along most of the course.

How’s the Swag?

Asics ‘Gold Coast marathon’ t-shirt and a chunky medal for your efforts.

The Overall Score – How many stars do you give the Gold Coast Marathon and do you recommend that others run it?

10/10 and for anyone wanting a picturesque course to smash your PB or complete your first you need to put this race on your radar.

Ian Whitmore is a coach with Team RunRun. To learn more about him or to work with him, check out his coach profile.