Sydney Marathon: Northern Beaches runner has completed every race

Northern Beaches resident Jo Tebbutt, the only woman to have completed every Sydney Marathon since its inception in 2001, is once again preparing to lace up her runners for this year’s race.

Northern Beaches resident Jo Tebbutt, the only woman to have completed every Sydney Marathon since its inception in 2001, is once again preparing to lace up her runners for this year’s race.

The 58-year-old’s dedication to the marathon began with a unique opportunity.

“The Sydney Marathon is the carrot at the end of the stick,” she said.

“It was the host city marathon the year before the Olympics, and both my husband and I decided that it would be our only chance to run over the bridge.”

This initial excitement for the adventure of running the route that Olympians would take set the stage for Jo’s long-lasting commitment.

Jo Tebbutt is the only female to have run every single Sydney Marathon since its inception in 2001. Picture: Rohan Kelly

Over the years, Ms Tebbutt’s participation evolved from an enthusiastic start to a yearly tradition.

“I never intended to run every single Sydney Marathon,” she said.

“It’s a beautiful time of the year when we all come out of the depths of winter and are ready for a new challenge.”

The 58-year-old plans to continue her marathon running streak in years to come. Picture: Rohan Kelly

The marathon’s changing routes and the iconic Blue Line, which traces the paths of elite runners, have added to her enjoyment.

“It makes you feel, for that little bit of time, like an Olympian yourself.”

As Jo continued her journey, the marathon took on additional significance.

“After ten marathons, when we were inaugurated as Blue Line Legends, it became a challenge to keep going for the feminine side of me and for other women.”

But the mammoth effort has had its challenges.

“There have been challenges. I once hurt my back the Friday before the marathon, and it was the most painful 42 km I’ve ever run. But it’s amazing what your body can do in survival mode. We often underestimate our bodies’ strength and potential.”

Looking to the future, Jo remains passionate about the Sydney Marathon.

“The plan is definitely to keep going for as long as I can,” she said.

“I’ve run marathons all over the world, but this one stands out. I feel enthusiastic about it and want our city to be recognised as one of the big marathons globally.”

The TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS has once again broken its own record, with over 25,000 participants registered for the sold-out event, taking place on Sunday, 15 September.

This record-breaking milestone solidifies the event’s position as Australia’s largest marathon, drawing runners from every corner of the globe in what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of endurance, community, and athleticism.

This year’s marathon features a diverse array of participants, with ages ranging from 18 to 90, illustrating that the love for running transcends generations.

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Originally published as Sydney Marathon: Northern Beaches runner has completed every race