Reflection on Gold Coast marathon 202

This has been the most significant Gold Coast marathon event I have participated in every year since 2018, excluding the COVID-affected years. The high number of participants and the quick sell-out of the half and full marathon have made it a major event.

This event holds special memories for me as it marks the beginning of a significant journey. Following my second ACL knee reconstruction on the same knee in April 2017, I found myself lacking motivation to resume running and training, which had always been a driving force in my life. From improving my athletic performance as a track and field athlete, fitness testing with the South Australian Sports Institute (SASI) to passing fitness tests as a match official for local and national leagues, I had always had a purpose to training. Determined to overcome this lack of motivation, I made the decision to challenge myself by training for the Gold Coast Marathon 2018. Under the guidance of my coach Jacob Cocks, who played a pivotal role in transitioning me from the sprinter into the mindset of a distance runner, I set a goal of finishing within 2:30. To my surprise, I surpassed all expectations and completed the marathon in 2:03:04. The sense of achievement, joy, and the unforgettable moment of seeing the legendary Rob de Castella at the finish line are memories that will stay with me forever.

After realizing that entries were selling quickly last year, I decided to participate in the 10km race. Uncertain about how the Tokyo marathon would unfold and how well I would perform, I opted for a fun and fast-paced 10km race. This decision turned out to be a blessing as I had COVID in April and couldn't train throughout May. With only a month of slowly building training, attempting a half marathon or a full marathon would have been physically too challenging (it would have hurt). Feeling physically fitter due to my marathon training compared to the previous year, I aimed to run faster than my previous year's 10km time. I set a goal to finish in under 50 minutes, acknowledging that it would be a tough challenge. Despite the slightly downhill start, I realized at the 4km mark that maintaining the pace was unsustainable, especially when the route turned uphill and the wind picked up. However, I accepted this reality, understanding that not every race can result in a personal best. The experience taught me to appreciate my capabilities and enjoy the process. Crossing the finish line with a time of 52:28, I was content considering my limited training post-recovery from COVID. Looking ahead, I believe that with additional speed training sessions, achieving a new personal best is within reach. It's important to recognize that not every race will result in a personal best, and that consistent pacing or finishing strong can also lead to progress. These little wins will eventually culminate into a personal best when least expect it.

This year's event was particularly memorable for me, as it marked my first official coaching experience with athletes participating in the competition. One athlete took on the 5 and 10km races, three tackled the half marathon (one virtually), and another completed the full marathon.

One of the most rewarding aspects of coaching is witnessing your athletes accomplish feats they once believed were beyond their reach. Each of these athletes has dedicated themselves to their objectives, putting in the hard work, enduring sweat and sometimes struggling through training sessions. In the end, their efforts have paid off as they have all excelled, achieved personal milestones, stayed committed to their goals, and emerged unscathed.

Although it was an exhausting weekend, I depart from the Gold Coast with my cup full. I am proud of my athletes and their performances and satisfied with my own. Now to head back to the daily grind and work towards the next goal.