Kiros improved last year’s record by 12 seconds, previously set by Kenya’s Brimin Kipkorir. Kipkorir is currently under provisional suspension following a positive test for a banned substance, which occurred two months post his victory in Australia.

More than 40,000 competitors made their way over the Harbour Bridge during the race. Source: AAP / Dean Lewins

Hassan blitzed the previous record of 2:21:40 — set by Ethiopia’s Workenesh Edesa — as she won by 34 seconds from Kenyan runner Brigid Kosgei, with Edesa third in 2:22:05.

“It’s the first major marathon in Australia, in Sydney, and I’m the first one to win, so it’s big history for me.

Marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge (left) was congratulated by race winner Hailemaryam Kiros. Source: AAP / Bianca De Marchi

“I felt so good in the first 5ks, and I think I pushed too hard. I pushed really hard the last 10ks.

“My mission is to bring all the people together. Let us surpass 55,000 (from 35,000 this year), actually, next year to run here.

Jessica Stenson (left) was the first Australian female athlete to cross the finish line. Source: AAP / Bianca De Marchi

“It’s a beautiful course. It’s a course whereby there is no other in this world.”

Former national record holder Brett Robinson was 17th in 2:15:00.

Swiss Marcel Hug won the wheelchair male marathon. Source: AAP / Bianca De Marchi

Swiss star Marcel Hug smashed the record of 1:36:38 set by Australian legend Kurt Fearnley in 2011 to win the men’s wheelchair marathon.