The Sydney Marathon joined the ranks of the World Marathon Majors in 2023, making it a bucket-list race for runners across the globe. Known for its breathtaking course, iconic landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, and incredible crowd support, it’s quickly become one of the most sought-after races on the circuit.
Rebecca Jackson took on the 2025 Sydney Marathon as part of her mission to complete all six Abbott World Marathon Majors. Here’s her story of what inspired her, how training went, and how VOOM helped fuel her all the way to the finish line.
What Inspired You to Run the Sydney Marathon?
With it being a new World Marathon it was always going to be on the bucket list as I am on a quest to complete all the stars. I’ve already done London, Chicago and Boston, and Sydney was my 7th marathon in total.
I was lucky enough to receive a charity place, so I jumped at the opportunity. I actually started running when I lived in Australia around 10 years ago, so it will always hold a special place in my heart, and Sydney is such a beautiful city!
How Did You Approach Training for Sydney?
Unfortunately, following Boston Marathon in April I picked up some posterior tibialis tendinopathy. That meant 4–6 weeks off running and only about 6 weeks of training in the build-up. Not ideal, but I already had a good base.
This time, my goal wasn’t about a specific time, it was about finishing injury free and enjoying the experience. And I managed just that!
What Was Race Day Like?
The atmosphere was fantastic! We had a 4am wake-up, left the hotel by 5am, then took a water taxi across to North Sydney before catching a mini bus to the start. It was dark, cold and surreal seeing hundreds of runners wrapped in blankets, eating bananas, and warming up in different ways.
As the sun rose, the crisp air helped calm the nerves. The buzz grew, warm-up tunes were pumping, and I was so excited to get going as we watched the Elites set off.
At mile 2 we crossed the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, it was stunning and so surreal running across the wide, open roads!
The support through the city was incredible, especially around Martin Place and Hyde Park. At 8–10 miles there were a few inclines but nothing too tough. Spectators lined Anzac Parade with DJs and cheer squads, and I even spotted Sifan Hassan on the out-and-back section!
Centennial Park gave some shade, though it was undulating, before heading into the Botanical Gardens for the final stretch. By 35km, my quads were burning and the downhills hurt more than the uphills. But the last 2km along Macquarie Street, with roaring crowds and the Opera House as the backdrop, was the most spectacular finish.
How Did You Fuel for the Race?
Pre-race I usually go for a cinnamon and raisin bagel with PB, jam, coffee and electrolytes, but in Sydney I had to swap for toast with banana and honey. Carbs, carbs, carbs, and easy to digest!
During the race VOOM bars were my go-to fuel. I break them into small pieces beforehand and keep them in a pocket so they’re easy to grab. For Sydney I used two VOOM bars (plus one gel), taking my first block around 7km, then 1–2 blocks every 7km.
I love the texture, they don’t melt or go sticky, and they’re so easy to eat mid-run. They never cause GI issues, and I don’t have to faff with packets. Alternating between a caffeinated and non-caffeinated bar kept my energy constant. I never dipped once in energy, and I credit that to precise VOOM fuelling.
How Did It Feel to Cross the Finish Line?
Crossing the finish line was such a proud moment, marathon number 7 in a PB time of 3:10:36. But this wasn’t about the time. The sense of achievement and fulfilment is indescribable, only those who run marathons really know the feeling.
My legs turned to jelly as I collected my medal, but the atmosphere at the finish was electric. Seeing runners take selfies, call loved ones, and congratulate each other was so special.
What’s Next on Your Marathon Journey?
I’d definitely recommend the Sydney Marathon, it’s a beautiful city to run through, the event was so well organised, and the crowd support was fantastic.
Next? I still need New York, Tokyo, and Berlin to complete the Abbott Majors – so watch this space!
