[citation needed] Since 2007 the event has started near the MCG and finished with a lap of the ground.

The predominantly flat marathon course goes through some of the most scenic areas of Melbourne.

It skirts the Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake with several kilometres on the road parallel to the beaches of Port Phillip Bay.

The other events share parts of the course but staggered starts ease congestion.

[citation needed] Key: Course record Country's championship race Spartans are runners who have completed 10 or more Melbourne Marathons and are recognised today by their distinctive green, gold, red, maroon or navy running singlets.

Spartan Legends are a select group of runners who have completed every Melbourne Marathon since the beginning.