IN training: Redland Bay Runners and Walkers (from left) Colin Skelly, of Thornlands; Kristyn Ward, of Cleveland; Nigel Hyland, of Victoria Point; Rosemary Bass, of Redland Bay; and Scott Marosek, of Thornlands, eye off the Gold Coast Marathon.
A team of 60 will line up at this year's Gold Coast Marathon Festival on Saturday and Sunday, June 30 and July 1, as part of the Bayside Runners and Walkers.
Runners will compete in all events over the two days ranging from the 4km junior dash to the full 42.2km marathon.
The team, coordinated by Corina Bailey, of Victoria Point, and Mick Gill, of Redland Bay, is 20 stronger than last year.
One of the highlights this year is that of the 20 members who are running the full marathon, 10 will be attempting the run for the first time.
Cleveland's Graham Smith, 53, will be one of those attempting his first marathon.
"When I joined Bayside Runners almost three years ago I couldn't run 5km. The thought of one day running 42.2km was something that had never crossed my mind," Graham said.
"The motivation and support within the group is unbelievable. You just get swept along and before you know it you're training for the marathon."
The group also boasts a former Tasmanian, who the team is only too happy to now claim as one of them.
Nigel Hyland, 54, of Victoria Point, moved to Queensland with his wife Judy six years ago.
Nigel, a past winner of the Hobart Marathon, was recently invited back to Hobart where he was honoured for his years of service to the Tasmanian athletics community.
He has become a big asset to the group with his vast knowledge and experience.
As well as offering valuable training tips to Bayside Runners members, he is back in peak condition after fighting recent health issues.
He is aiming to run a sub three hour marathon, a feat that would just about see him win the men's 50 to 54 age category.
For more information on the Bayside Runners and Walkers group, visit www.baysiderunners.com.