NSW Athletics in partnership with the We Run Foundation  will give eighteen of NSW’s most promising young distance runners the chance to race in the TCS Sydney Mini Marathon presented by ASICS Youth Invitational, held as part of the TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS, one of Australia’s premier running events and one of the world’s newest Marathon Majors.

More than just a race, the initiative is designed to inspire the next generation of distance runners through unique race-day experiences, dedicated athlete support and a clear connection between junior athletics and Australia’s fast-growing road running community.

Why This Initiative and Why Now?

The TCS Sydney Mini Marathon presented by ASICS Youth Invitational initiative is one of the first flagship programs to emerge from the new NSW Athletics Performance and Pathways Program, a long-term commitment to identifying, supporting and developing the next generation of athletes capable of progressing through the state and national performance pathway. As our sport continues to evolve, we are committed to creating meaningful development opportunities that extend beyond traditional competition and provide aspiring athletes with experiences that accelerate both their performance and personal growth.

Delivered in partnership with the We Run Foundation, the Youth Invitational connects emerging distance runners with one of Australia's premier running events, the TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS. More than simply providing a race opportunity, the initiative immerses athletes in a world-class event environment, exposing them to elite competition, the broader running community and the unique experience of participating in a global marathon festival. By strengthening the connection between grassroots athletics, high-performance pathways and major participation events, the program helps inspire the next generation of distance runners while contributing to the long-term vision of building a sustainable endurance pathway towards Brisbane 2032 and beyond.

Over the coming months, NSW Athletics will continue to roll out a range of new initiatives under the Performance and Pathways Program, providing athletes, coaches and clubs with greater opportunities to develop, connect and achieve success at every level of the sport.