GCM - The Mecca of Road Running in Australia

14 July

Words by Sophie Hlipala |  Photos by Natalie Wong

“Running has truly changed my life. I first started running during the throes of the pandemic as a chance to get out of the house during lockdowns and I haven’t looked back since.”

I had every obstacle thrown at me in the days leading up to the race. Cancelled flights and a tram breakdown on race morning made it a challenging start, regardless of this there is something so special about the Gold Coast Marathon Weekend. I truly feel it is the mecca of road running in Australia, so we reserve special efforts for these opportunities.

The sense of camaraderie among the running community is unparalleled, enabling connections that are truly unique.

I must have channelled the angst into my first few Ks because they were far too quick!! Coming into the finishing chute and seeing the clock validating I had achieved something I didn’t think was possible for me at this point was so surreal.

Sharing that achievement alongside my friend, coach and teammate Izzi made it so special. Izzi was pivotal in the moments leading into this race, to calm my nerves of my late arrival and to be the first person to greet me across the line, her support means the world.

With a 76:02, I’ve surpassed my goals and what I thought I was capable of, which is a great thing. With a couple of strong race performances leading up, my coach (Riley Cocks) and I landed on 77min something being the goal. So I was excited to leave it all out there on Saturday and I am so happy I exceeded my expectations on race day.

What I love about this sport

Running has truly changed my life. I first started running during the throes of the pandemic as a chance to get out of the house during lockdowns and I haven’t looked back since. The sense of camaraderie among the running community is unparalleled, enabling connections that are truly unique.

This sport pushes me to my limits and I love that I don’t feel I’ve reached my full potential, I still have so much more to give. I love that you get out what you put in, there is no cutting corners with running. My mum is always surprised when I tell her what time I’m going for and 9 times out of 10 my result is usually around the mark!

The running community really comes alive at a big event such as the Gold Coast Marathon. This year I shared the experience with over 90 teammates at RunAsOne and it was special to see so many PBs and breakthroughs across the weekend, leaving me motivated and hungry for more!

Next Big Goal for Me?

The big 3-0 is approaching later this year so to celebrate I’m heading over to Europe to participate in my first international race! I’m racing Great North Run half marathon in September where I hope to see a 75 on the clock. It will be important to keep momentum going for the remainder of the winter season so I can get to the start line fit and healthy.