One of the biggest events on the Penrith sporting calendar has a new date and course, which will no doubt delight competitors racing in the popular Western Sydney Marathon later this year.
Runners can look forward to setting personal bests in the spring sunshine following the announcement that the 2023 Western Sydney Marathon will be held on Sunday, October 8.
The event, which was previously held in June at Sydney International Regatta Centre, features five race categories and distances to suit children, families and elite runners.
In a second change, the 2023 event will also feature an exciting new course that will take runners around Penrith Whitewater Stadium.
Minister for Sport Steve Kamper explained the decision behind moving the marathon’s date and location.
“The Western Sydney Marathon is an opportunity for families and friends of all ages and abilities to get together outdoors and have fun,” he said.
“The decision to move the event to October is about giving participants the opportunity to run in the best possible conditions.
“With a new, upgraded course around the picturesque Penrith Whitewater Stadium, I’m anticipating we’ll see race records broken and personal bests set.
“So, whether you’re an elite runner or a family wanting to get active, the Western Sydney Marathon has something for everyone. And with four months until race day, it’s time to dust off your runners, develop a training plan and get in shape for a fantastic day of family fun.”
Penrith MP Karen McKeown said the Western Sydney Marathon is an institution among Sydney runners.
“Penrith has been host to the event at Sydney International Regatta Centre since 2010,” she said.
“It’s fantastic to see the event returning to its original spring timeslot. And with an exciting new course, I encourage Penrith families and elite runners to register for a fantastic day of fun and fitness.”
2022 Half Marathon Female winner, Angela Caithness, said she’s looking forward to testing out the new course.
“Having achieved first place in this event – my first ever first place, this event will always be special to me,” she said.
“I loved the fact that it was quite local to me. It is a pretty course next to the water. I also liked the flat course, with only a bit of an incline.”
Ronan McNally, who took out last year’s Men’s Marathon, said he’s excited about the new location.
“With the course changes this year the views of the lower mountains will be even more spectacular,” he said.
“I don’t know anywhere else you can run such a flat course while taking in the mountain views and lapping the lakes at the same time.
“I’ll be aiming for another marathon PB this year that I can once again celebrate with family and friends.”
Western Sydney Marathon includes a 2km Youth Dash for kids, a 5km Family Fun Run. 10km run, half marathon and marathon.
Competitors can register online at www.westernsydneymarathon.com.au or on race day.
Nathan Taylor is the Weekender’s Deputy Editor and Senior Sports Writer. He also compiles the weekly Chatter on the Box TV column. Nathan is an award-winning journalist, who has worked at the Weekender for a decade.
