Since 1971, come August, Sydneysiders flock to the streets to partake in one of the city’s most loved and favourite sporting events – the Sun-Herald City2Surf. Much of the city closes down and crowds line the course as participants make the journey from the city centre to iconic Bondi Beach – from the city to the surf, as the name suggests! At the heart of the event is the desire to raise money for charity – in 2010 the goal is to raise $3 million – but the race is also one of Sydney’s best community events that attracts all ages and walks of life and is not restricted to serious athletes. Racers can run, jog, walk, or even dance the course – one of the biggest attractions of the race is the colourful, weird, amusing and strange costume ideas that teams come up with!

The City2Surf is a sight to behold, and whether you’re a Sydneysider or a visitor, you’ll be impressed by the eagerness, excitement and passion that participants take to the streets with! If you’re visiting Sydney, it’s a great way to see Sydney as the course takes participants through some of city’s most beautiful and picturesque areas. Just be prepared for crowds!

Race history

According to the race history, the Sun-Herald City2Surf was modelled on the San Francisco Bay to Breakers run and started in Sydney under the encouragement of Fairfax Media’s US correspondent. From humble beginnings (with only 2,000 participants in the first race), 1.2 million people have entered and participated in the event since the race started 40 years ago. The first race was won by an American, but since then it has been mostly Australian runners who have taken out the line honours. Steve Moneghetti won the race four times and still holds the men’s record at 40.03 minutes while Susie Power – two time winner – holds the women’s record at 45.08 minutes.

Course

The race starts at the intersection of Park and College Streets in the CBD before heading up through William Street, past Rushcutters Bay, around Rose Bay before “Heartbreak Hill” hits. Up New South Head Road, this steep stretch is known as the toughest part of the course! It’s also the halfway mark. After that, participants make their way down to iconic Bondi Beach where the race officially ends. When Mother Nature puts on a show and the sun is shining the course offers some truly spectacular Sydney scenery.

Race quick facts –

• The Sun-Herald City2Surf is a 14km race or walk from Sydney CBD to Bondi Beach.
• Since the race started in 1971 1.2 million people have participated.
• In 2006 – for the first time in the event’s history – more women registered for the event then men.
• In 2007 a record number of 64,713 people entered the event.
• In 2008 a record $1.25 million was raised for charity.
• In 2009, The Sun-Herald City2Surf became the world’s largest run and was voted Sydney’s favourite sporting event.

Cambridge Hotel’s GM,  Steven Gargano, is taking on the City 2 Surf this year – why not join us??

Stay warm this winter in Sydney

With beautiful beaches, spectacular waterways, and beautiful summer temperatures, Sydneysiders sometimes don’t know what to do when the cold weather hits. But winter in Sydney is not cause for hibernation! There are a range of indoor activities and attractions that can be overlooked in the warmer months and winter is the perfect time to experience some of Sydney’s indoor delights. Here are a few to choose from and keep you entertained while Sydney weathers the cold.

• Art galleries and museums. Sydney boasts some of Australia’s best art galleries and museums, which are often home to visiting international exhibitions or shows. The Art Gallery of NSW, for example, is surrounded by beautiful parkland and houses the works of some of Australia’s finest artists. Other popular and first-rate museums include the science and technology Powerhouse Museum, and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Use the winter months to get your cultural fix!
• Classes. Always wanted to take a class and expand your skill or knowledge base? While the beach is out of bounds, use your weekends or free time to take that art, cooking or language class that you’ve always dreamed of taking.
• Walks, bushwalking and other outdoor activities. It might get cooler but winter in Sydney doesn’t mean freezing temperatures and endless rainy days. More often than not, the sun is still shining and it’s as easy as ever to experience most of the outdoor splendour that Sydney has to offer. The ocean is still warm, and it can be more pleasant to do Sydney walks, bushwalks and cycle trips when the temperature is cooler and you don’t have the hot summer sun beating down on your back.
• Shopping and exploring the inner city. Sydney and the inner city suburbs are a labyrinth of streets and alleyways speckled with hidden boutiques and cosy eateries and bars. When winter hits, don your coat and head out to explore all that suburbs such as Surry Hills, Darlinghurst and Paddington have to offer. They ooze charm and style, and winter is the perfect time to treat yourself to a designer, vintage or bargain purchase.

With its natural beauty, alluring attractions and fun and friendly atmosphere, no matter what time tourists visit Sydney they will have a memorable holiday experience. Sydneysiders can also make the most of the winter months to explore their own city and the indoor attractions they may ignore in the summer months.

Winter is the perfect time to head to Sydney – check out the Quality Hotel Cambridge for great accommodation deals!

What treasures will you find at the markets?

Sydney boasts quality shopping, with glossy shopfronts, international brands and an array of different retail districts. But when shopping in Sydney – as a visitor or resident – don’t forget Sydney’s vibrant market scene, which offers innovative new clothing, crafts, jewellery and accessories, as well as trendy recycled and vintage wares. Sydney market shopping is as much about the goods as it is about the experience. Surry Hills, Bondi, Glebe, Kirribilli and Paddington Markets attract a diverse and eclectic bunch of people, and with food stalls and live music, market shopping is a special Sydney experience. Try out these Sydney markets to spice up your next shopping outing.

¬- Surry Hills Markets: Held on the first Saturday of the month in Shannon Reserve, Surry Hills Markets sell a mix of handmade, second-hand and recycled goods. Operating since 1981, these markets have helped preserve and represent the funky and alternative feel of the area, which has experienced gentrification in recent times. The markets allow low income earners to make some money, and they are a great place to pick up a pre-loved item of clothing, or trendy handmade accessories.

- Bondi Markets: Held every Sunday since 1993, Bondi Markets are a favourite with Sydneysiders and tourists alike. Located on the beachfront of world-famous Bondi Beach, Bondi Markets are a hub for original designer clothing, handmade jewellery, arts, crafts, home wares, vintage clothing and much more! It’s famous for being the starting point for many up and coming designers, so you’re sure to nab yourself a trendy bargain at Bondi markets. The markets are in the grounds of Bondi Public School.

- Glebe Markets: Every Saturday, Sydneysiders flock to Glebe Markets for the alternative crowd, gourmet cuisine and funky live music. With a quirky character, Glebe markets are not only great for people watching, but for picking cutting edge designs in clothing and jewellery, as well as recycled wares and original accessories. The markets are held in the grounds of Glebe Public School.

- Kirribilli Markets: On the northern side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge in Bradfield Park, Kirribilli Markets have different market days that specialise in different goods. For general market wares, visit Kirribilli Markets on the 4th Saturday of each month. The 2nd Sunday of each month focuses on art, design and recycled and vintage fashion.

- Paddington Markets: Held every Saturday in the ground of Paddington Public School, Paddington Markets showcase a range of Australian goods. Paddington Markets have a slightly different vibe to other Sydney markets, with a focus on designer and upmarket goods. While you won’t find as much vintage clothing, you’ll still be able to pick up unique designer goods at bargain market prices.

So get to market! Weekend market shopping is a great way to experience a different side of Sydney and grab some great bargains while you’re at it.

What’s your favourite Sydney market?