A record 90,000 people, from seasoned athletes to casual walkers, will lace up their running shoes to take part in the Voltaren City2Surf this Sunday, marking the second year in a row the race has sold out.
The 14km course from Hyde Park to Bondi Beach has raised $59 million for charity since 2008 – a tally expected to increase by $5 million to following this year’s event.
This year, the 55-year-old race also debuts a new name: the Voltaren City2Surf, part of a three-year partnership deal with the pain relief brand.
With the city bracing for road closures and large crowds, here’s everything you need to know before you hit the start line.
When is the City2Surf?
The 2025 City2Surf will be held on Sunday, August 10.
Runners will take off in staggered, colour-coded waves based on their pace, starting with the elite, preferred, and red groups at 7.35am.
The start line closes at 9.50am, and participants must cross the finish line by 1.50pm.
The course begins in the heart of Sydney’s CBD at Hyde Park. From there, participants head downhill along William Street and through the Kings Cross Tunnel. The route then winds along New South Head Road as it passes through Rushcutters Bay, Double Bay, and Rose Bay.
The greatest challenge is the two-kilometre uphill stretch of Heartbreak Hill. After conquering the incline, runners are rewarded with ocean views on the downhill along Old South Head Road and Military Road.
Participants then make their final approach to the finish line at Bondi Beach.
Where are the road closures?
Roads around Hyde Park near the starting line will begin closing from 3.30am. Major roads along the course will be closed from 6am. Areas between Double Bay and North Bondi are expected to shut by 7am.
Roads will begin reopening late in the morning, starting in the city around 11.30am, and finishing by 4pm at Bondi Beach and Bondi Junction.
Special event clearways will also be in effect across the course and surrounding streets, so check signage carefully to avoid towing. With heavy traffic expected throughout the day, Transport for NSW advises avoiding unnecessary car travel and planning ahead.
What are my transport options?
With major roads out of action, public transport is your best bet for getting to and from the event.
Travel is free for participants and volunteers. Simply show your race bib or volunteer pass when boarding any public transport service.
Extra services will be running, including trains, metro, light rail, buses and ferries, to help you reach the starting line on time. If you’re coming from Bondi, express shuttle buses will operate from Bondi Road near Sandridge Street, taking runners directly to the city.
