Auckland Marathon

When Loose Tyres Ruin Your Marathon Vibes: A Day to Remember in Auckland!

Runners were dodging more than just the competition at the Auckland Marathon with a loose tyre flying by! Find out what else went down on Auckland's streets during this record-breaking event!

The smell of adrenaline filled the air this morning as Auckland transformed into a bustling marathon mecca, with nearly 18,000 runners taking to the streets for the exhilarating Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Marathon 2024. However, not even the runners could have predicted that a rogue tyre would become an unexpected competitor! As athletes sped past the Auckland Harbour Bridge, a loose tyre flew off a nearby vehicle, narrowly missing participants and creating a moment that will surely be the talk of the event for weeks to come.

Despite the drama, the day was abuzz with heartwarming stories of triumph and inspiration. This year's marathon saw record turnout, with approximately 17,000 participants putting on their running shoes—marking it as the largest marathon in Auckland's history! As participants pounded the pavement, pushing themselves beyond their limits, one runner even took a detour to the emergency services after a medical incident required CPR. Talk about the marathon of highs and lows!

The atmosphere during the event was electric, with spectators cheering from the sidelines, creating a wave of support that propelled runners across the finish line. And as marathon legends, newbie runners, and even a few strategic walkers crossed paths, each step represented dedication, camaraderie, and hopefully, a few PRs. The event sprawled across some of Auckland's most scenic routes, where every mile told a unique story of perseverance and shared experiences.

As we reflect on this iconic event, let’s take a moment to appreciate the feats of the marathon athletes. Did you know that the first-ever Auckland Marathon was held in 1984 with just 500 participants? Fast forward to 2024, and the turnout increased by over thirty times! And if you think dodging a tyre was tough, let’s not forget that marathons not only challenge physical endurance but also test mental grit. Now that’s truly something to ‘run’ home about!