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stmookeyj said:
To tie up a loose end, Singapore was unbelievably slow but I couldn't run any of the last 11km partially because of the climatic conditions (it was the only day in my week in Malaysia/Singapore that the Sun was out, doesn't mean it wasn't hot and humid, but the sun increased the road temperature so much it gave both my feet blisters which I could barely walk on). But the important thing was the finish line was crossed on foot, the medal secured and at least some demons exorcised.


Anyway onto this year, work commitments and a change to a Saturday rather than a Sunday means no Cadbury Marathon this year, but it's going to be a full slate. Thankfully I was awake and on the ball in order to get into a few races which sold out ridiculously quickly (5 AM wake up in Kuala Lumpur just to enter Melbourne, how crazy am I?).

MARCH: Wangaratta Marathon
APRIL: Canberra Marathon (maybe the Newcastle Marathon if the body holds up but that is a 6 day turnaround with Canberra on the Sunday before Easter, and Newy on Easter Saturday itself)
JULY: Gold Coast Marathon (Half on Saturday, Full on Sunday, not game enough to enter the 10 and 5 on the Saturday which is now possible for the totally insane)
AUGUST: In the ballot for Sydney but not overly hopeful. If I managed to finish in 2022 rather than tap out at 20km I would have got priority access for this year without the ballot requirement but the body said no.
OCTOBER: Melbourne Marathon (hopefully this one will end up being the 10th, if the hamstrings hold together)
NOVEMBER: Auckland Marathon (unfinished business from 2023)

Also entered Comrades in South Africa but not counting the chickens just yet. Also have a couple of half marathons in the schedule.
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That’s a big running schedule! Comrades would be an insane event to complete.

How many kms did you run last year?

I am also in the ballot for Sydney but not expecting a place.
 
guelfontheshelf said:
Thanks for this!
In the end I started out a liiiittle stronger than I should've, especially because I wasn't expecting so many hills, but was able to hang on and get a time that I was pretty happy with in the end given the conditions. Definitely a challenging run though!

Would love to find a way to keep track of runs that are happening in regional towns, it's a good excuse to go somewhere new for a weekend.
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Hopefully it helped in some way, didn't sound like you blew up so well done.

There is a site called Run Calendar or something like that, you can search via distance, date, location etc and it gives a list of all the races coming up.. Super handy little tool, generally also has links to FB, websites etc for each one as well
 

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Wetdog said:
How many kms did you run last year?
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Just under 1000 (I've done beyond 1200 in about 2019 as my high mark), obviously going to do more this year and with Sydney officially on the agenda as of today (and the Comrades organisers kindly giving runners an extra 10 minutes to qualify meaning sub 5:00 is good enough) it's time to knuckle down.
 
stmookeyj said:
Just under 1000 (I've done beyond 1200 in about 2019 as my high mark), obviously going to do more this year and with Sydney officially on the agenda as of today (and the Comrades organisers kindly giving runners an extra 10 minutes to qualify meaning sub 5:00 is good enough) it's time to knuckle down.
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Congrats on getting into Sydney. It should be a great event. Can’t wait!

Keep us updated on Comrades. It is such a fascinating event. Any experiences you share would be very interesting.

I’ve only got two events lined up for this year, the half marathon Run Forest (trail run) in June and Sydney Marathon in August. That feels like enough for me for 2025, but I will revisit my plans after Sydney.
 
Willo_ said:
Did anyone that go in the ballot NOT get into Sydney.... Seems like everyone I've seen did..
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There was some on the melbourne mara facebook page that didn't. Seems most who entered it got in. I certainly did after applying for it just in case. Now looking at accommodation for a few days with the wife and daughter.

Also doing ballarat this year after forgetting about Melbourne until about 11am the day it went on sale and missing out. Doing a trail half marathon at kilkunda in a few weeks. I did a 10k around the you yangs new years eve and really enjoyed it, so wanting to do some trail events this year.

Got back into running towards the end of 2023 and loving it, although I feel I'm constantly on the edge of injury. Really need to do more strength stuff but have been very lazy with it.
 
jackn said:
There was some on the melbourne mara facebook page that didn't. Seems most who entered it got in. I certainly did after applying for it just in case. Now looking at accommodation for a few days with the wife and daughter.

Also doing ballarat this year after forgetting about Melbourne until about 11am the day it went on sale and missing out. Doing a trail half marathon at kilkunda in a few weeks. I did a 10k around the you yangs new years eve and really enjoyed it, so wanting to do some trail events this year.

Got back into running towards the end of 2023 and loving it, although I feel I'm constantly on the edge of injury. Really need to do more strength stuff but have been very lazy with it.
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I have never participated in the race, but I know that trail (George Bass Trail) down at Kilcunda very well. I have ran it both ways many times. It is a cracking run.

A few tips:

1. Watch out for snakes. No bullshit. I have had a very close call. Also watch under foot generally as there are plenty of rocks and roots.

2. I’m not sure how far the race goes to Punchbowl Rd, but it is very up and down with running on sand and a beach. Pace yourself early as it gets tough.

3. It can get very hot. If there are no aid stations, take plenty of water and sun protection.

Have fun.
 
Happy NY folks. After about two months of eating and drinking since NYCM, time to knuckle down again. Start with a ten km race in Portarlington in a few weeks, then the mid distance at Run the Rock, followed by a slew of HM’s (Canberra, Hawkes Bay, Brisbane, Run Melb, Taupo) leading into my main event for the year, Sydney full. My tenth marathon (and second at Sydney). Also got into Chicago which is six weeks after that, but still deciding whether to run or defer that one (due to some work/timing issues around then). Happy running all!
 
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Anyone got any fun running plans this long weekend? Partner's away so gotta keep myself occupied by burying some k's over the weekend and looking for inspo.

I really should get a trail running vest so I could try trail running on occasions like this but haven't done that yet so eh.
 

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guelfontheshelf said:
Anyone got any fun running plans this long weekend? Partner's away so gotta keep myself occupied by burying some k's over the weekend and looking for inspo.

I really should get a trail running vest so I could try trail running on occasions like this but haven't done that yet so eh.
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Strava suggests different routes. You could check that out.

Trail running is a lot of fun. There are some trails along the water Brighton to Black Rock etc. You don’t need a vest for that. Plenty of water stations.
 
Willo_ said:
Did anyone that go in the ballot NOT get into Sydney.... Seems like everyone I've seen did..
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Yep I am in too and so are all my running friends who I know entered.
 
How's everyone's running been going? I love warm weather running but even I have to admit I'm getting tired of this heat, bring on some autumn temps haha. Long run this Saturday is going to be spicy (especially since Albert Park will presumably be inaccessible for runners)

Anyone got any favourite shoes for intervals/speed work? 25% off at the Running Warehouse til 5pm today for Ballarat Marathon participants so I'm keen to get a dedicated pair of shoes for my faster runs (currently goals are sub-39 min 10k and sub-1:30 HM).

Shoes I've run in in the past are Asics Gel Nimbus 27 / Asics Gel Cumulus 26 / Nike Pegasus (cant remember the model number).
 
guelfontheshelf said:
How's everyone's running been going? I love warm weather running but even I have to admit I'm getting tired of this heat, bring on some autumn temps haha. Long run this Saturday is going to be spicy (especially since Albert Park will presumably be inaccessible for runners)

Anyone got any favourite shoes for intervals/speed work? 25% off at the Running Warehouse til 5pm today for Ballarat Marathon participants so I'm keen to get a dedicated pair of shoes for my faster runs (currently goals are sub-39 min 10k and sub-1:30 HM).

Shoes I've run in in the past are Asics Gel Nimbus 27 / Asics Gel Cumulus 26 / Nike Pegasus (cant remember the model number).
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Depends a bit on what you like / foot shape.

I like the Rebel v4 for a lightweight non-plated fast shoe that's pretty flexible and 'stable' with a bit more room in the toes, or the Speed v4 with the composite plate seems a bit 'faster' to me but a little less stable and flexible, and a closer fit.

The Deviate Nitro 3 would probably be good if you prefer a narrower fit (e.g. Nike Pegasus runs a bit narrow IMO), but I find Puma runs too narrow for me (at least the Deviate Nitro 2 did). The DN2 was a nice shoe aside from the fit, I'd assume the 3 is similar, if it fits you it should be high on your list, very durable outsole means it'll last you a while.

I wasn't much of a fan of the Boston 12, felt a little too heavy and clunky to really get going for my liking but some people really like it. Probably depends a little on weight / foot strike as to whether it'll work for you. Like the Puma, very durable outsole.

I've got a friend who runs in the Hoka Mach 6 and quite likes it, haven't tried it personally. There's also the Magic Speed 4 if you like ASICS and are doing your faster stuff on asphalt or concrete, they're a similar height to most racing shoes so not the best for turning or gravel.

These are all more performance-trainer than pure race shoe. Most brands have 'good' performance trainers now, it's just down to fit and feel as to which work for you.
 
faible said:
Depends a bit on what you like / foot shape.

I like the Rebel v4 for a lightweight non-plated fast shoe that's pretty flexible and 'stable' with a bit more room in the toes, or the Speed v4 with the composite plate seems a bit 'faster' to me but a little less stable and flexible, and a closer fit.

The Deviate Nitro 3 would probably be good if you prefer a narrower fit (e.g. Nike Pegasus runs a bit narrow IMO), but I find Puma runs too narrow for me (at least the Deviate Nitro 2 did). The DN2 was a nice shoe aside from the fit, I'd assume the 3 is similar, if it fits you it should be high on your list, very durable outsole means it'll last you a while.

I wasn't much of a fan of the Boston 12, felt a little too heavy and clunky to really get going for my liking but some people really like it. Probably depends a little on weight / foot strike as to whether it'll work for you. Like the Puma, very durable outsole.

I've got a friend who runs in the Hoka Mach 6 and quite likes it, haven't tried it personally. There's also the Magic Speed 4 if you like ASICS and are doing your faster stuff on asphalt or concrete, they're a similar height to most racing shoes so not the best for turning or gravel.

These are all more performance-trainer than pure race shoe. Most brands have 'good' performance trainers now, it's just down to fit and feel as to which work for you.
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Thanks for this, this is super helpful!

I've got a bit of a wider foot (I prefer the Asics Cumulus/Nimbus over the Nike Pegasus), and do my faster stuff at the track or on gravel.

All a bit tough to judge without trying on the shoes of course, but I've been a bit behind with my emails and only saw the promo code yesterday (it arrived on Sunday) and it expires today but thankfully they do a return program if the fit isn't good (as long as I've just worn it around the house, not on a run)
 
guelfontheshelf said:
Thanks for this, this is super helpful!

I've got a bit of a wider foot (I prefer the Asics Cumulus/Nimbus over the Nike Pegasus), and do my faster stuff at the track or on gravel.

All a bit tough to judge without trying on the shoes of course, but I've been a bit behind with my emails and only saw the promo code yesterday (it arrived on Sunday) and it expires today but thankfully they do a return program if the fit isn't good (as long as I've just worn it around the house, not on a run)
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Not sure where you're based, but you could try to pop in to one of their stores for a quick try-on.

The Rebel is probably the most comfortable fit-wise, but with the lack of plate it's a bit less 'racy' than something like the Speed. The Speed 4 is definitely firmer and faster than the Rebel (for longer intervals anyway) and would be a solid choice for a shoe you can do your faster sessions in but also take out for race day.

Without being able to try them on / run in them it's a bit of a shot in the dark. Also depends whether you're wanting something to race in, and for what distance. The most race ready is IMO the Speed, and I'd be quite happy taking that out to a half-marathon. But I'm also a big Saucony fan as they work well for my mechanics.
 

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faible said:
Not sure where you're based, but you could try to pop in to one of their stores for a quick try-on.

The Rebel is probably the most comfortable fit-wise, but with the lack of plate it's a bit less 'racy' than something like the Speed. The Speed 4 is definitely firmer and faster than the Rebel (for longer intervals anyway) and would be a solid choice for a shoe you can do your faster sessions in but also take out for race day.

Without being able to try them on / run in them it's a bit of a shot in the dark. Also depends whether you're wanting something to race in, and for what distance. The most race ready is IMO the Speed, and I'd be quite happy taking that out to a half-marathon. But I'm also a big Saucony fan as they work well for my mechanics.
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Thanks heaps for the insights! A friend has said similar so they're seeming pretty good so far!
 
After several months of persistent calf niggles finally went to a physio in late January who essentially told me I was doing too much too soon. After slowly building up with interval running today was my first 5km run at 100%, which felt amazing.

Fingers crossed it's smooth sailing from here, next up is the 15km Run for the Kids on April 6th and I want to get a couple of 15km runs in before hand to try beat last year's time.
 
I've had persistent pain behind my knee since the Melbourne marathon, it calms down after a bit of time off but it eventually comes back after a few runs. I believe it's hamstring related but really hard to pin point.

Have no idea where to go from here, thinking of having a solid two months off and just focus on strength work.
 
ash_1050 said:
After several months of persistent calf niggles finally went to a physio in late January who essentially told me I was doing too much too soon. After slowly building up with interval running today was my first 5km run at 100%, which felt amazing.

Fingers crossed it's smooth sailing from here, next up is the 15km Run for the Kids on April 6th and I want to get a couple of 15km runs in before hand to try beat last year's time.
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good luck man but be careful.
going from “I’m back to running 5k in training” to racing a 15k in the space of 3 weeks isn’t exactly a slow build.

from my experience cardio fitness comes back way quicker than leg strength so it feels like you could/should do more when your body isn’t ready.

anyway, I don’t mean to be a downer. glad things are heading in the right direction and I hope it all goes well.
 
guelfontheshelf said:
How's everyone's running been going? I love warm weather running but even I have to admit I'm getting tired of this heat, bring on some autumn temps haha. Long run this Saturday is going to be spicy (especially since Albert Park will presumably be inaccessible for runners)

Anyone got any favourite shoes for intervals/speed work? 25% off at the Running Warehouse til 5pm today for Ballarat Marathon participants so I'm keen to get a dedicated pair of shoes for my faster runs (currently goals are sub-39 min 10k and sub-1:30 HM).

Shoes I've run in in the past are Asics Gel Nimbus 27 / Asics Gel Cumulus 26 / Nike Pegasus (cant remember the model number).
Click to expand...
Too late for the discount but I love my takumi sen for interval stuff and 5k races. Also have new balance rebel and endorphin speed 3, both of which I love for similar work. Rebels better for slightly slower stuff as they're plateless. Both rebel and speed also brilliant as daily trainers.

A left field one depending on how hard you want your intervals and how versatile you want your shoe, would be vaporfly 3. Available for 250 at the moment with the release of the 4.
 
PoopingHindi said:
good luck man but be careful.
going from “I’m back to running 5k in training” to racing a 15k in the space of 3 weeks isn’t exactly a slow build.

from my experience cardio fitness comes back way quicker than leg strength so it feels like you could/should do more when your body isn’t ready.

anyway, I don’t mean to be a downer. glad things are heading in the right direction and I hope it all goes well.
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Very valid points, and that's what has been causing issues for the last 6 months was getting back into things too quickly. Tweaked my calf about six weeks ago and yesterday was the first full run at 100% capacity. I've also been adding some additional gym and stretching in there as well to help minimise tightness and hopefully ensure everything is a-ok. We'll find out!
 

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