Nearly 90,000 participants filled Sydney’s streets today for the 2025 City2Surf, despite the persistent rain that turned the beloved event into the wettest edition in over a decade.
Starting from Hyde Park in the CBD, runners of all levels from elite athletes to fun-loving first-timers made their way along the 14km course to Bondi Beach. The grey skies soon gave way to heavier rain, with participants donning ponchos, costumes, and soaked sneakers as they powered through the city.
Despite the downpour, spirits stayed high, and a rainbow appeared near the finish line, adding a moment of beauty to the soggy morning.
Road closures across Sydney allowed the huge crowd to safely run, jog, or walk the scenic route, including the notorious “Heartbreak Hill” a steep 2km incline that tests even seasoned runners.
In the women’s race, Bronte Oates from Sydney crossed the finish line first with a time of 45 minutes and 51 seconds, followed by Caitlin Adams and Ruby Smee. Adelaide’s Isaac Heyne defended his title in the men’s division, winning with a time of 40 minutes and 33 seconds, ahead of Samuel Clifford and Tom Do Canto.
From firefighters in uniform to participants dressed as video game characters like Mario and Luigi, the event stayed true to its reputation as both a serious race and a celebration of community and colour even under stormy skies.