Organisers of the Sunshine Coast Marathon have expressed “huge relief” that a shipment of finishers’ medals arrived just in time for the running festival.
More than 16,000 people are set to take part in the growing event on Sunday, when several main roads will be closed.
Atlas Events had emailed participants to inform them they may not get a medal, after the shipping cargo containing them arrived in Brisbane later than expected and was still on the dock.
But the Port of Brisbane helped get them moving.
Atlas Events managing director Jason Crowther said it was crucial to reward runners for their efforts.
“We’re incredibly pleased the shipment arrived on the Sunshine Coast. It’s a huge relief for our team and, most importantly, for our participants,” he said.
“When we became aware of the delay, the decision to communicate early was an easy one for us. Our runners have supported this event for 14 years, and they deserved to know what was happening.
“The response was incredible, and we’re really grateful for the patience and understanding people showed.”
Event organisers, Port of Brisbane authorities and contractors worked quickly to get the medals and other event stock to the Sunshine Coast.
“A huge amount of work happened behind the scenes over the past few days to get everything here in time,” Mr Crowther said.
The Port of Brisbane team were fantastic: they moved heaven and earth to help us get this across the line, and we’re incredibly thankful.”
“These medals carry a lot of meaning for our participants. We’re thrilled they’ll be waiting at the finish line waiting for them.
“Now our entire focus is on delivering a memorable race weekend for every participant.”
Total event attendance, including spectators, supporters, volunteers and participants is set to exceed 30,000 this weekend.
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Last year’s festival injected more than $13 million into the regional economy, through accommodation, hospitality, retail, transport and tourism experiences, as well as event-related operational expenditure.
A Sunshine Coast Council representative said the EVA Air Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival showcases the region’s lifestyle, natural assets and visitor experiences to a global audience.
“The event is increasingly significant as the Sunshine Coast prepares to host marathon events as part of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, providing an established platform to demonstrate the region’s capability to deliver world-class events.”
