Full Breakdown
Record-Breaking Performances at the Inaugural Sydney Marathon
8/31/2025, 11:44:49 AM
Historic Wins in the Men's and Women's Races
The inaugural Sydney Marathon, now recognized as a World Marathon Major, witnessed remarkable performances from Ethiopia's Hailemaryam Kiros and the Netherlands' Sifan Hassan on Sunday. Kiros set a new course record in the men's race, finishing in 2 hours, 6 minutes, and 6 seconds, surpassing the previous record by 12 seconds. He edged out compatriot Addisu Gobena, who finished second, while Lesotho's Tebello Ramakongoana secured third place. Kiros's victory marks the fastest marathon ever run in Australia, achieved on a challenging harborside course that attracted approximately 35,000 participants.
In the women's race, Hassan dominated with a time of 2:18:22, breaking the previous record by nearly three minutes. She finished ahead of Kenya's Brigid Kosgei and last year's champion, Ethiopia's Workenesh Edesa, who placed third. Hassan's performance not only established her as the fastest woman to complete a marathon in Australia but also made her the first winner of this newly elevated major marathon.
Key Moments and Strategies
Kiros and Gobena formed part of a lead pack early in the race, but Kiros made a decisive move within the final kilometer, showcasing his strength on the downhill gradient towards the finish line at the Sydney Opera House. Kiros expressed confidence in his preparation, stating, "Yes, because I prepared well."
Hassan's race strategy involved a fast start, which she later reflected on, admitting, "I pushed too hard and I learnt a lesson." Despite feeling exhausted in the last 10 kilometers, she managed to maintain her lead and secure victory. Hassan's win is particularly significant as it marks her third major marathon victory, adding to her titles from London and Chicago.
Eliud Kipchoge's Performance
The event also featured renowned marathoner Eliud Kipchoge, who finished ninth with a time of 2:08:31. Kipchoge, a two-time Olympic champion, fell off the lead pack around the 31-kilometer mark but received a warm reception from fans as he crossed the finish line. He emphasized the importance of participation and community, stating, "I have nothing to prove... Let us surpass 55,000 [participants] next year."
Wheelchair Race Highlights
In the wheelchair events, Switzerland's Marcel Hug set a new men's course record of 1:27:15, breaking the previous record by over 11 minutes. American Susannah Scaroni won the women's wheelchair race in 1:45:52, surpassing last year's record time.
Official Statements & Responses
The Sydney Marathon's elevation to a World Marathon Major is a significant milestone for the event, aligning it with prestigious races in New York, London, Berlin, Boston, Tokyo, and Chicago. The successful execution of the marathon, with record-breaking performances, has set a promising precedent for future events.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m so grateful to be here and run a marathon in Australia and be the first one to win.” — Sifan Hassan
- “The competition was very tough, this was a strong, strong field,” — Hailemaryam Kiros
- “I'm happy to go across the finish line. I have nothing to prove,” — Eliud Kipchoge
The Sydney Marathon has not only showcased elite athleticism but also fostered a sense of community and celebration among participants and spectators alike.
