The TCS Sydney Marathon 2026 once again delivered an unforgettable experience for runners from around the world, and this year Team ABC was proudly represented by supporters who travelled thousands of miles, overcame injuries, battled jet lag, and carried deeply personal motivations with them every step of the way.
From the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge to the world-famous Opera House, Sydney provided a spectacular backdrop for an event that has quickly become one of the most sought-after races on the global marathon calendar.
A Family Adventure in Sydney
A Family Adventure in SydneyFor Simon, Sydney was a chance to combine marathon running with precious family time.
“It was an amazing event, my second in Sydney. It’s one of the best marathons in my opinion. I flew over for five days specifically and managed to run with my son Ben and spend a few days with him.
The jet lag definitely showed towards the end of the run, but the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge are incredible.”
Having already experienced the event once before, Simon knew what to expect, but the atmosphere and scenery still left a lasting impression.
Running for Those Affected by Cancer
Friends Glen and Martin (pictured top) travelled from New Zealand to take on their second Abbott World Marathon Major together.
“We are both huge Kylie fans and as a result of her sharing her second diagnosis in a recent documentary, running Sydney just seemed the appropriate race to run.”
The pair began running in their forties to improve their fitness and completed the London Marathon together in 2025. Both work in the care sector and had to fit training around demanding schedules, often running late at night or in the early hours of the morning.
Their motivation was deeply personal.
“Glen’s friend Molly died from breast cancer in her thirties, and we have both experienced relatives battling different forms of cancer. We wanted to dedicate our marathon running to a cause we believe in.”
To honour those affected by cancer, they carried a specially made sash decorated with pink ribbons bearing the names of loved ones, past and present.
Fighting Forward
For Justin from Winnipeg, Canada, Sydney represented far more than another marathon finish line.
In 2007, at just 31 years old, Justin was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Faced with uncertainty and fear, he chose to keep moving forward.
“Running became my outlet, my therapy and ultimately my purpose.”
Since then, marathons have taken him around the world. After raising more than £5,000 for the Brain Tumour charity while running the London Marathon in 2025, he brought that same determination to Sydney as his second Abbott World Marathon Major, this time fundraising for Against Breast Cancer.
Even reaching the start line proved challenging.
“Flying standby out of Winnipeg, I tried for two days and six flights before finally buying a ticket to keep moving toward Sydney. I even slept in an airport along the way for the first time in my life. Missing this race was never an option.”
The marathon itself delivered plenty of challenges.
“This prairie boy was not built for Sydney’s hills. Around mile 3, I stopped to take photos and a friend from Winnipeg ran by, so we spent the next several miles pushing each other along.”
Yet throughout the race, Justin remained focused on the people he was running for.
“People close to me, both family and friends, have been affected by this awful disease and continue to fight for a cure. I ran with them in mind, and for the hope that future families won’t have to go through the same pain.
“I’m not an elite athlete. I’m a single dad to three incredible daughters, a survivor, and someone who refuses to stand still while cancer affects the people in my life.”
Thank You Team ABC
Together, our ABC runners in the 2026 Sydney Marathon raised an incredible £37,526 to support Against Breast Cancer’s vital research, honoured loved ones affected by cancer, and demonstrated the incredible impact of running with purpose.
From the UK, New Zealand, Canada and beyond, every member of Team ABC arrived at the start line with their own personal motivation for taking on the 26.2-mile challenge, united by a shared commitment to making a difference.
We’re so proud of every one of them, and grateful to everyone who donated, supported, and cheered them along the way.
Fancy signing up to one of our events in support of ABC yourself? Find more information on our events page.