Local Legends in Running: Recent Episodes
Oli Jones
Welcome to the Local Legends in Running Podcast where you hear the stories from local legends of Australian running, that you simply always wanted to hear. The intention of this podcast is to have genuine and insightful conversations with Australian runners and coaches to simply educate the local running community and raise the profile of running in this country. So tune in to hear how running has shaped the lives of the guests and how it can shape yours.
- Running and background info
- Running news - GC, SC, Comm games
- Australian running scene
- Hanso's 9 months of injuries
- The path ahead
Ryan's running, event directing and personal background
Gold Coast Marathon 2026
Gold Coast in future years
Listener questions
GC News - Haftu, Izzy, Ed Marks, Alex Harvey
Race Recaps - Dean 2:45, Avi - 2:59, Oli - DNF (27k)
Upcoming Year
CAM MYERS | SARAH BILLINGS | GC & SYDNEY FIELDS | WEEKLY RUNNING RECAPS | THE DAYS BEFEORE GC
- 2026 in general
- About Sam - as a person/in general
- Running journey eventuating at running achievements/PBs
- Current training/Gold coast half prep and in general
- Future races and goals
Running news - Peter Bol 1km Aus record. GC elite field
Running weeks
Episode topic - Taper
- Get to know the cohosts (in general)
- Get to know the cohosts (running story/PBs)
- GC event in general
- Goals for GC
- Weekly recap
- Preview of next fortnight
.Agenda;
- Seth's coaching and physio work
- Running background/story
- AFL/Music influences
- Coaches
- Big achievements and learnings
- Current training
- Future training/racs
Agenda:
- Running news - London, Boston, Ballarat, GC Running Festival
- Fortnightly running recaps
- Listener topic - Nutrition
- Quick preview of next fortnight
In this ep we cover:
- Matts early career in middle distance time
- His experiences abroad in Africa, America, Europe, Finland and Japan
- Sweat Elite
- Content Creation
- Chinese super shoes
- Matt's current training and racing plans
Episode 110:
Road to Noosa Series ep 2 - Boston/London/Ballarat Mara, training weeks and discussion around footwear.
Today on Season 5 Episode 109, I kick off the road to Noosa Series 2026. On this road to series, you will get an insight into sub elite runners, and now co-hosts Ewan McFadzen from the Bush Turkey Track Club in Brisbane and Brad Louie Pulse Running Athlete from the Sunny Coast, as they join myself as we discuss our lead up to the Runaway Noosa Half Marathon. The entire premise of these road to series is to you allow you the listeners insights into our training and racing, life around it and also, our experiences and opinions on areas such as nutrition, footwear and mental applications amongst others. I hope you enjoy the series.
Today on Season 5 Episode 107 I invite Gabe Tochterman to the show. Gabe is the Chief Operating Officer for the Run Army brand and event operating out of Brisbane and Townsville. We discuss:
- Gabe herself - personally, her role at RA and running background
- Run Army - when/why it was founded, the 2026 event and what the future brings.
Today on Season 5, Episode 106 I chat with Brisbane runner and Bert Squad member Bec Reissis. Today's episode had a strong women's in running focus with us discussing:
- Phily Bowden (UK) and her running/social media
- Brooke Williams (AUS) and her recent Osaka Marathon
- Bec's background as a runner
- Run with Reb (formally Brisbane Girls Run Club)
- Women in running
- Bec's 2026 running
On episode 105, Season 5, Kate discusses:
- Local female running news - Beth McKenzie, Nerissa O'Donnell, Brooke Williams
- Her own running and background
- BERT squad
- Women in running
- 2026 races and goals
Today on Season 5 Episode 104, Sunshine coast based, Alex Harvey, jumps on the show. We discuss his recent Marugame 63 Half, his running background and current training as he works toward Toyko Marathon in the next month and finish with 2026 and beyond.
Today on Season 5 Episode 103, I invite back to the show Brooke Williams. Brooke has been on the show more than any other guest - she has so much to offer about her own training, elite running (particularly women) and opinions and knowledge on current training principles and running news. We discuss Sam Ruthe and Cam Myers in particular, Brooke's recent 2:45 in Osaka Marathon and then her 2026 running.
Isaac Heyne kicks off Season 5 (the fifth year of the pod) talking about World Cross Champs, current training and future running including marathon ambitions.
Today on Season 4, Episode 101, I have Brad Wauer. Brad is the owner of two of the Running Company franchise shops, in Maroochydore, Sunshine Coast and West End in Brisbane. Hence a fair chunk of our conversation is about the Running Company in general, but also the background of Brad's shops themselves. Brad is a pretty handy runner himself, so we dive into his running background and stories around his running PBs and achievements.
Today on Season 4, I celebrate episode 100. At the beginning of this year Dad proposed the idea of hosting me on my own podcast after running the Gold Coast marathon, for the first time. Unfortunately after being injured, I did not run said event, hence the idea never cam to fruition. As episode 100 was approaching, I wanted to do something different and special to mark the celebration of a century of Local Legends in Running episodes, hence today, the idea came together. I hope you enjoy a father and son chat about my running story.
Today on Season 4, Episode 99, I invite back to the show Tim Crosbie. Tim has many titles in his work - he's an employee to Athletics Victoria & Australian athletics, largely involving the facilitation of coaching workshops around the country, but also event organisation and commentary. He holds director roles at the Melbourne Marathon festival and Zatopek 10 and founded his own running group years ago in Melbourne called the Crosbie Crew. Tim has also coached several elite athletes, predominantly professional Australian females.
Today on Season 4, Episode 98, Jayden Russ comes back on the show. Jayden, from Brisbane Athletics, came on the show over three years ago to discuss his running background and coaching, primarily at the high school level. Today he provides an update to the running group and we chat about some topical running news items including World Cross Trials, Valencia Marathon and the Zatopek 10.
Today on Season 4 Episode 97, Alex Stitt comes onto the show. Alex grew up on the Sunny Coast in QLD, attended Brisbane Grammar School, then after a gap year training with the Gold Coast Run Co, headed to America to Oklahoma College to continue his elite racing and training. He has since returned to Australia indefinitely where he is again based at the Sunshine Coast. He talks at depth about his experience in the American collegiate system and his plans moving forward.
Today on Season 4 Episode 96, I invite back to the show Stephen Butcher from the Bush Turkey Track Club in Brisbane. Stephen has now featured on the podcast 6 times, the 2nd most of any guest and there's a reason for that. He of course loves a chat, is a passionate follower of the sport and is very astute with his own running training and the sport in general. This episode focused mainly on the Melbourne Marathon where Stephen recorded an 8 minute PB, with a 2:36. He reflects on the weekend, the race, the event in general and then we finish with discussing his training and future races. I hope you enjoy.
Today in Season 4, Episode 95, South Australian runner, Fraser Darcy comes on the show. As I commenced the zoom meeting for this episode, Fraser came onto the screen with the full set up - a microphone and proper headphones as if he was a pro. And there was some truth to that, he's featured on the For the Kudos this year, so if you get a chance, check out the podcast if you can. The main reason or influencing factor as to why Fraser came on the show today was due to his recent third place in the Melbourne Marathon. He ran a 2:17, and funny enough, ran 2:17 months earlier this year at Sydney Marathon. I was privy to learning most of his PBs are this year, he's in his early 30s and runs as much as 200km in a week. He's also a coach for RunAsOne, a prominent running group in South Australia, involving Izzy Batt Doyle and the Cox brothers. Riley finishes by talking about his training set up and week and then future events. I hope you enjoy.
Today on Season 4, Episode 94, Tim Crosbie, the Competition Director of the Melbourne Marathon, joins me on the podcast. Tim and I met back in 2017, when he facilitated a coaching course in Brisbane with Benita Willis to myself and a handful of other local coaches at the time. Tim was fantastic across the 2 day course, hosting what was called a Level 2 Advanced Recreational Running Coaching accrediation. I learnt that Tim founded and faciltiates his own coaching group, The Crosbie Crew in Melbourne, works for Athletics Victora, Athletics Australia, coaches elite runners, and is involved in directing events like Melbourne. In this episode, I invited Tim on four days after the Melbourne Marathon itself, to talk specifically about how he felt the event went, the elite fields, the recreational runners, the elites and the areas that could improve with the event. We finish talking about the Zatopek 10k and track running in general. I hope you enjoy.
Today on season 4, episode 93, I invite onto the show, QLD and Sunshine Coast runner, Ben Tacey. Ben grew up and still resides on the Sunshine Coast in QLD. He finished school at Immanuel Lutheran College back in 2018 and thrived primarily in the 800m and 1500m events at school. Since finishing he has studied a sports management degree, travelled and trained overseas and run as quickly as 3:47 in the 1500m and 14:30 in the 5k. He is also now a coach, starting his own business after coaching for a few years now, working with both kids and adults online. If you enjoyed hearing about Ben as a coach or athlete, then hit him up on insta for any coaching services. As always, I hope you enjoy the ep whether you're out for a run, commuting to or from work or simply doing some chores.
Today on Season 4 Episode 92 I invite back for the third time to the Podcast, Tim Vincent. This conversation is primarily about his experience at the 2025 World Championships amongst other things.
Today on Season 4, Episode 21, I get Brooke Williams, multi-national 10k Zatopek runner, on the podcast. After are fantastic and insightful conversation about the World Athletics Champs with Stephen Butcher, from the Bush Turkey Track club, on Wednesday night, I sit down with Brooke to reflect more so on the second half of the champs and the event in general. We break down the 800m, 1500m and 5000m events in particular, focusing at depth on the Australian athletes. We finish with an update on our future running this year and 2026.
Stephen Butcher, previous cohost of the Road to Gold Coast Half series and from the Bush Turkey Track Club in Brisbane comes on to chat all things World Athletics Champs 2025. He also touches on his experience and shiny new PB of 32:55 from Bridge to Brisbane last weekend.
Today in Season 4, Episode 89, I invite back to the show, Brooke Williams. I think Brooke has been on the show at least on 7 occasions, so it's always good to have back on the pod. She last featured in October last year where she was pregnant with her 2nd baby. The main focus was for us to chat about the Sydney Marathon event in general, and then discuss Brooke's running this year and in her build up to the event as well. Brooke lives in Burraga NSW, so her running environment is probably different to most listeners, in the sense that she has access to very quiet dirt roads and almost always trains solo. Brooke is a always a fantastic listen, but particularly for those mums to be or those who have kids and who run. I hope you enjoy the ep.
Jordo comes back on the pod after a 2 year period since his first episode. He's back running - he recently competed in the GC mara. We talk about his background to start and then at depth about recent running news. He finishes by talking about his current training and future running goals!
Today in Season 4 Episodle 87 I speak with Brisbane and Distance Culture runner, Liam Woollett. Liam has serious ability in running, but equally, has faced serious injury issues since he began back at the end of high school. His PB in the 5k is a low 14 and 10k, a low 31, but it hasn't come easy battling with shin splints for well over a decade. Liam talks about his school running, intraining connections, Distance Culture and his future running in this episode.
Today in Season 4 Episode 86, I invite Event Director and Founder of Atlas events and the Sunshine Coast Marathon, Jason Crowther, to the podcast. Jason was fantastic - he spoke at length about the history of the Sunshine Coast event, and provided insight into the changes and aspects of the 2025 marathon too. Jason finishes by talking about the future of the event.
Welcome to the Local Legends in Running Podcast. Today in Season 4 Episode 85, I invite elite female marathoner, Tara Palm onto the show. Tara is one of Australia's top all time elite female marathoners with an incredible 2:32 PB in the event. She also boasts a 1:10 in the half marathon, and certainly is targeting these events in more recent years. Tara and I kick off the conversation discussing the recent news of Faith Kipyegon's sub 4minute mile attempt and Ruth Chepengetich's positive drug test, and then get into Tara's background and training weeks. She finishes talking about nutrition and her future running moving forward where she plans to run the Sunshine Coast half and the Berlin Marathon. I hope you enjoy the episode.
Today in Season 4, Episode 82, I continue the Road to Gold Coast Half Marathon Series. I am joined by 1:14 half marathoner Stephen Butcher, from the Bush Turkey Track Club and Nerissa O'Donnell, a 1:18 runner from the BERT squad in Brisbane. In this spin off series, the general agenda will include conversation about recent local and professional running news, weekly training and finishing with a topic relevant to the race itself, for example, race strategies, nutrition, footwear and mental applications. I hope you enjoy this side series as a part of the overall Local Legends in Running Podcast
Today in Season 4, Episode 81, I sit down to chat with Adelaide runner Isaac Heyne. In this episode, Isaac was only one week off his 2nd place and 3rd all time half-marathon on Australian soil at the Launceston Running Festival in Tasmania, The conversation leads us to talking at length about the Launceston event itself, his running background, training, mental and physical struggles, nutrition and upcoming events in 2025.
Today in Season 4, Episode 80, I continue the new Road to Gold Coast Half Marathon Series. I am joined by 1:14 half marathoner Stephen Butcher, from the Bush Turkey Track Club and Nerissa O'Donnell, a 1:17 runner from the BERT squad in Brisbane. In this spin off series, the general agenda will include conversation about recent local and professional running news, weekly training and finishing with a topic relevant to the race itself, for example, race strategies, nutrition, footwear and mental applications. I hope you enjoy this side series as a part of the overall Local Legends in Running Podcast
Today in Season 4, Episode 79, I kick off the new Road to Gold Coast Half Marathon Series. I am joined by 1:14 half marathoner Stephen Butcher, from the Bush Turkey Track Club and Nerissa O'Donnell, a 1:17 runner from the BERT squad in Brisbane. In this spin off series, the general agenda will include conversation about recent local and professional running news, weekly training and finishing with a topic relevant to the race itself, for example, race strategies, nutrition, footwear and mental applications. I hope you enjoy this side series as a part of the overall Local Legends in Running Podcast
Today in Season 3 Episode 79, I sit down with QLD elite runners Aidan Hobbs and Callum Davies. Both of these gentlemen just competed in the Ballarat Marathon event, Aidan in the Marathon itself placing 6th with a 2:21 and Callum in the Road Mile placing 3rd with a 4:03. Subsequently, we discuss the event in general and their experience and then dive into the very healthy state of 1500m and marathoning in this country. We touch on participation from a recreational point of view to and finish with both of their plans for 2025.
Tonight in season four episode 77 I talk with Rob Collins from the distance culture running group in Brisbane. Rob is a 2:24 marathon man and the winner and two time winner of the Sunshine Coast marathon in 2022 and 2024. He’s run around eight marathons now and for a while with the distance culture group, but also living over in the UK and running multiple overseas marathons . He’s a super laid-back bloke being a finance manager of a large agricultural business here in Queensland. It was fantastic to talk to Rob about recent running news with a focus on the marathon itself and his up-and-coming races this year.
Today in Season 4, Episode 76, I chat with Dr Jamie Whitfield. He's a researcher and senior lecturer at the ACU in Melbourne. We discuss use of supplements in physical performance, specifically nitrates, sodium-bicarbonate and caffeine. Jamie was the first exercise physiologist I have had this podcast, and having a background in applied science myself too, I was all ears as he discussed these unique and topical supplements and their relevance to performance in endurance sport.
Today in Season 4 Episode 75, I chat with Clive Gross, from the Bush Turkey Track Club in Brisbane and Kyle Weise from Kyles Run Coaching on the Gold Coast. This episode was specifically a recap of the Osaka Marathon that the boys competed in on Monday this week and the episode also marks the conclusion of this particular side series. At the time of the conversation, both Clive and Kyle were in Japan talking to me 36 hours post the race itself at 9pm at night. As such, there were some tired brains and audio issues, including from my end, but I was really pleased to capture the raw emotion and thoughts of both runners about their experience in the event. We cover the lead in, race day and their running moving forward. I truly left this episode feeling a little empty in the fact that this series is over, but equally, so pleased with the opportunity I had to talk to such generous and open people, in Clive and Kyle. As I mention to them at the end of the episode, it is with hope they return to the pod in some capacity down the track. As always, I hope you enjoyed this series and although this particular one has finished, I have some amazing guests coming on the show in the near future, including Adam Fogg British runner, Jamie Whitfield exercise physiologist and Peyton Craig, Australian 800m runner. Okay, enough from me, let's pass it over to the legends, Kyle and Clive.
Today on Season 4, episode 74, I chat with Australian marathon record holder, Andy Buchanan. Being Andy’s second time on the podcast the primary intention of this conversation was to hear of his experiences over the past year, particularly his time at the Paris Olympics, his Valencia Marathon and recent Marugame Half Marathon where he recorded the 2nd fastest all-time Australian half marathon. Andy dives deep into what has contributed to his amazing recent running form and finishes with what 2025 looks like moving forward. As I start the conversation with Andy, it continues to be a privilege having the opportunity as host of this podcast to sit down with not just the calibre of athletes like Andy, but the time, tips, stories and insights that these runners provide the listeners.
Today in season 4, episode 73, I continue the Road to Osaka series with Clive Gross, Brisbane Turkey Track Club runner and Kyle Weise from Kyles Run Coaching on the Gold Coast. This episode is the fourth in this series and marks the penultimate conversation for the boys leading up to the Osaka Marathon in three weeks. As usual we start with some running news, this time focusing on the London Marathon field and Cameron Myers’ recent U20 indoor mile record then get into the training weeks for the past fortnight. We conclude with Clive and Kyle talking about the next three weeks leading up to the event, and how race week, including taper and race day look for both of them. A quick note that the series will finish with one final episode after the race to recap the event. I hope you’ve enjoyed the series so far, and enjoy this current episode.
The Road to Osaka Series documents the marathon training build of Clive Gross, Bush Turkey Track Club runner of Brisbane, and Kyle Weise, coach of Kyles Run Coaching on the Gold Coast. They detail their training weeks along with discussing important marathon topics such as nutrition, mental applications, race strategies and footwear. I hope you enjoy this spin off series from the regular Local Legend in running episodes.
Today in season 3, episode 71, I chat with Katie Dall from Club KT. Katie and I spoke on this very podcast almost 3 years ago in the beginning of 2022. For me, it was my 4th ever episode as a new host to the podcasting world, and it was her first ever podcast in her life. Its pretty clear if you go back and listen to it, the audio quality is pretty awful and we do seem a little nervous. Since then, Katie's growth as a person and in the running world has sky rocketed. She has been quite sought after in the podcasting world, her group club KT has seen so many runners join the cult, and her influencing status, as shown by her 5,000 odd more followers on instagram is quite profound. What I believe lies below all this so called limelight though, is a kind and quietly spoken Katie who is highly passionate about running and its impact on moreso than herself, but the local community and building connections between like-minded people. I hope enjoy this special listen, it was fantastic to host.
The Road to Osaka Series documents the marathon training build of Clive Gross, Bush Turkey Track Club runner of Brisbane, and Kyle Weise, coach of Kyles Run Coaching on the Gold Coast. They detail their training weeks along with discussing important marathon topics such as nutrition, mental applications, race strategies and footwear. I hope you enjoy this spin off series from the regular Local Legend in running episodes.
Today in Season 3, Episode 68, I chat with Gold Coast runner and coach, Kyle Weise. For having never met Kyle, we have a lot in common. Applied science degrees, podcast hosts, AA accredited coaches and fathers. The difference being, Kyle is a Gold Coast resident and myself in Brisbane. This was a fantastic chat, Kyle is such a clean and well spoken man who is well versed in all things running. His optimistic attitude is apaprent through the entire conversation we finish talking about his plans for Osaka Marathon to break 2:30. Kyle will appear back on this podcast for a road to Osaka series with previous guest, Clive Gross as well. very exciting. For now, enjoy Kyle's episode.
Today in Season 3, Episode 66, I chat with Brisbane and American college runner, Matthew Hanso. This was Hanso's 2nd time on the podcast and again he was just so knowledgeable and passionate about the sport, sharing some great insights and stories for someone so young. Hanso is now a Lipscomb University runner, with a 5k time as fast as 14:10. Through listening to this episode though, you won't just learn more about his PBs and achievements, but rather about his very specific training techniques, wisdom and enthusiasm in general he has for running.
Today in Season 3, Episode 65, I chat with Brisbane and Gold Coast runner, Tim Vincent. This is Tim's second time on the show, with his appearance today specifically about his recent amazing 9th fastest Australian all time 2:09 Frankfurt Marathon. We start talking about his recent training and the Sydney Marathon becoming a major, then go into depth about his Frankfurt Marathon training and race. It finishes with Tim talking about his future running. I hope you enjoy!
Today in Season 3, Episode 63, I chat with Brisbane runner, Clive Gross. Six years ago Clive wasn't even running, it was more likely to see him on the couch than running along the waterfront of North Brisbane suburb, Sandgate where he now currently trains and coordinates the quickly growing Bush Turkey Track Club. Now a 2:31 marathoner and 15:27 5k guy, Clive has certainly made name for himself in Brisbane running circles of late. For Clive, it's not just the running that is impressive, but also him as a person and the balance he has now found between, work, training and family. I hope you enjoy the listen.
Tonight in Season 3, Episode 62, I chat with previous guest and co-host, Brooke Williams. Brooke, now 21 weeks pregnant, was last on the podcast back in May. She updates us on her running through pregnancy and discusses plans for 2025 racing. We finish with discussing the elite scene, conversing about the most promising athletes moving forward over the next year.
Today in Season 3 Episode 17, I catch up with Cara Feian-Ryan, Australian 3000m steeple chaser directly from Paris for the 2024 Olympic Games. With Cara’s 3rd appearance on the podcast, this conversation was obviously and specifically about her debut Olympic experience as we discuss the her training and selection leading in, the general Olympic vibe, her preparation for the event itself and what she’s looking forward to at the games in general.---
Today in Season 3, Episode 16, I reshare an interview of myself from June this year courtesy of Steve Woolley, host of the Eat Sleep Run Repeat Podcast. Steve and I share a really positive relationship through running and podcasting and do converse quite regularly. Strangely, his sister was actually a teacher of mine many years ago attending Marist College Ashgrove, in Brisbane. Obviously, I credit this release entirely to Steve’s work, but I thought it may be interesting to listeners to get to know me further as a person and runner. It was such a privilege to share my running story, relationship with my father, coaching, opinions on the super shoes and 2024 running boom. A quick heads up, my mike was wigging a little bit after dropping it prior to this interview, but those who listened to the original on Eat Sleep, didn’t seem to notice. Maybe it’s just a podcast hosts ear. I hope you enjoy something a little different.
Today in Season 3, Episode 15, I chat with Brisbane runner Liam Boudin. Being Liam’s 2nd time on the podcast, this conversation was specifically about his recent debut in the marathon at Gold Coast. We discuss all things post mara, the lead up, the race itself and his running plans moving forward. I hope you enjoy
After Peyton's recent 1;44:12 800m run in Vienna, he became the third fastest male over the distance of all time, along with it being the Australian U20 record and an Olympic qualifier. As such, we talk about the amazing year he has had to date, the potential of Olympics selection, his background and training week.
In this episode I chat with Brisbane local, friend, teacher and neighbour, Drew Williams. Already a previous guest on the show, Drew is an amazing runner and person. As a recent 30:50 10k a runner, Drew has serious speed to burn, not to mention his ability over the other distance events. With his 2nd appearance on the show, Drew had a specific focus on wanting to share his experiences and knowledge on the topics of improving running as an ageing runner and longevity, cross training and mental health surrounding injuries with running. I hope you enjoy.
In this episode I sit down to chat with Steve Woolley, host of the Brisbane based Eat Sleep Run Repeat podcast. This was a great moment for my podcasting journey, as it was only a week prior that Steve was generous enough to have me on his own podcast. Steve has a very interesting background in both running and Muai Thai boxing. Subsequently, we go on to talk about his story in these disciplines along with his involvement in Brisbane running groups, the Eat Sleep Run Repeat Podcast, mental applications and his own father who has been a strong influence on Steve's running to date.
Today in Season 3, Episode 10, I sit down to chat with Ella McCartney. Ella is a mother to two young children who is based on the Sunshine Coast. In 2024, She won the Noosa Half Marathon in 1:16:40 and the Ballarat Marathon in 2:40, however she boast a PB in this event of 2:38 at the Gold Coast Marathon in 2023. Times aside, thing I really enjoyed about this conversation was that Ella just loves to run, and it comes at no surprise that she loves to talk about it. So if you're going for a run, commuting to work or doing things around the house, I hope you enjoy Ella's words as she discusses of course her own running, but the women's marathon in this country, running with kids and running around the Sunshine Coast.
In this spin off series, join Oli Jones (QLD), Brooke Williams (NSW) and Paul Gourlay (QLD) as they discuss their training, leading into the Noosa Runaway Marathon Festival in May 2024. In addition to training, topics such as nutrition, race tactics, footwear and mental strategies are discussed. We hope you enjoy the new series in addition to the regular Local Legends in Running interviews.
Today in Season 3, Episode 9, I chat with Commonwealth Games Marathoner, Andy Buchanan. In April, 2024, Andy had a red hot crack at the Olympic qualifying time in the marathon, running 2:08:58 at the Hamburg Marathon itself. Unfortunately, even with a huge PB, it was not to be, he was 48 seconds slower than the qualifying time. As such it was bittersweet conversation with Andy, as he discussed all things surrounding the marathon and finished with conversation around sports psychology. I hope you enjoy.
In this spin off series, join Oli Jones (QLD), Brooke Williams (NSW) and Paul Gourlay (QLD) as they discuss their training, leading into the Noosa Runaway Marathon Festival in May 2024. In addition to training, topics such as nutrition, race tactics, footwear and mental strategies are discussed. We hope you enjoy the new series in addition to the regular Local Legends in Running interviews.
In this spin off series, join Oli Jones (QLD), Brooke Williams (NSW) and Paul Gourlay (QLD) as they discuss their training, leading into the Noosa Runaway Marathon Festival in May 2024. In addition to training, topics such as nutrition, race tactics, footwear and mental strategies are discussed. We hope you enjoy the new series in addition to the regular Local Legends in Running interviews.
Today in Season 3, Episode 6, I sit down to talk with my father, Mark Jones. Dad, now in his 60s, has been an avid runner from a very young age. He excelled at the school level in the 400m to 1500m events and then transition to the half marathon and marathon events post having children. Additionally, he thoroughly enjoyed being involved in his sons' running, frequently attending their races and starting a tradition where he'd take them individually to Sydney for the City 2 Surf, at the age of 14. It was a pleasure sitting down listening to stories again, or for the very first time about dad's experiences from years ago, to this very day.
In this spin off series, join Oli Jones (QLD), Brooke Williams (NSW) and Paul Gourlay (QLD) as they discuss their training, leading into the Noosa Runaway Marathon Festival in May 2024. In addition to training, topics such as nutrition, race tactics, footwear and mental strategies are discussed. We hope you enjoy the new series in addition to the regular Local Legends in Running interviews.
In this spin off series, join Oli Jones (QLD), Brooke Williams (NSW) and Paul Gourlay (QLD) as they discuss their training, leading into the Noosa Runaway Marathon Festival in May 2024. In addition to training, topics such as nutrition, race tactics, footwear and mental strategies are discussed. We hope you enjoy the new series in addition to the regular Local Legends in Running interviews.
Previously race walkers, twins Brandon and Nick are now highly successful runners in their 30s. Brandon currently in London and Nick Brisbane, they are both products of the Brisbane Culture running group. It was great to gain insight into their upbringing, short-lived race walking career, training/travel and then Brandon's running experience over in the UK. Now in their 30s, these boys have raced most Australian fun runs and number of overseas events, so I hope you enjoy listening to the Dewars.
Today in Season 2, Episode 2, I chat with NSW & Victorian runner, Brooke Williams. Brooke burst onto the running scene back in 2012 when she raced the U23 Zatopek 10k Championships. The following year she went onto compete in the in the World Mountain Running Championships in Poland. Following 2013, Brooke had a five year hiatus from the sport, coming back only to learn she'd been diagnosed with Congenital Heart Disease at the end of 2018. Of course, she took some time off again with this diagnosis, then had a baby and ironically was informed that the condition had improved and returned to racing at the end of 2021 only to record her fastest ever 5k. So tune in, to hear Brooke's running story.
Today in Season 3, Episode 1, I chat with Brisbane runner Paul Gourlay. Paul who’s now self-acclaimed on the “good” side of 40, is a true example of consistency paying off over years. Starting running around 8 years ago, Paul started a run/walk program and progressed to 40k weeks. He has now hit up to 150k weeks in recent years and boasts PBs as fast as 15:15 for the 5k up to 2:37 for the marathon. Now a coach with Brisbane run group Run Co, Paul delves into his inspiring running story, training week, nutrition and coaching.
Today in Season 2, Episode 15, I interview Gold Coast runner, Tim Vincent. Just two years ago, Tim rose to running fame quickly, winning the 2021 Bridge to Brisbane 10km in a time of 28:45. Fast forward to this year, he placed third at the historic Launceston Half Marathon with a time of 63:18 and 14th in his debut Marathon at the Gold Coast in a swift 2:17:17. In this episode Tim firstly talks about his experience at the Gold Coast, and then dives into his running story, finishing with training talk. As always, whether you're hitting the pavement, or doing the weekly chores, throw the headphones in and enjoying hearing from one of our great up and comers.
Today in Season 2, Episode 15, I talk to Gold Coast runner Jordan McLennan. Jordo has been around the running circuit for over a handful of years now. He joined the Gold Coast Run Co at the young age of 15, and after high school headed to America to Loyola Marymount University in LA to extend his running. Unfortunately his American running experience wasn’t what he had hoped for so he returned to Gold Coast Run Co in 2018 to continue chasing his dreams. Since this time, Jordan has run as fast as 30:18 in the 10k and most recently, a 2:19 in his debut marathon at the Gold Coast Marathon 2023. So as always, if you’re out for a jog, or doing the chores, throw those headphones in and enjoy hearing from Jordan as he talks about the ups and downs of elite running.
Today in Season 2 Episode 14, I interview Melbourne ultra runner, Dion Finocchiaro. In the last handful of years Dion’s name has become synonymous with ultra running. He now holds the 50km, 50 mile and 6 hour male Australian ultra records. Furthermore, Dion’s marathon PB is an astonishing 2:19, that he set in Melbourne just two years ago. The interview starts around a discussion of his experience for the first time in Brisbane in the Marathon event, and then he delves specifically into the ultra-running world, talking all things nutrition, training weeks, coaching and footwear. So as always, whether you’re out for a run or kicking back, throw the headphones in and enjoy hearing from one of Australia’s ultra greats.
Today in Season 2, Episode 12 I interview Brisbane runner, Jaxon Paterson-Wright. Finishing school just three years ago, Jaxon is only 21 this year, but is already showing us his talent at such a young age. He has a PB of 14:57 for the 5,000m and 8:16 for the 3,000m on the track. In January this year, he was 2nd in the QA Norma Croker Shield 800m with a time of 1:55, a week later was first in the Sally Pearson 5000m. In May and June respectively, he won the QUT classic 10k and placed 5th in the Brisbane Marathon 10k.Furthermore, he most recently was 7th at Australia’s fastest parkrun – the Annual BERT 5k championships held at Sandgate 17th June. Anyways, that’s enough of impressing you with his times, it’s time for you to kick back, relax and enjoying hearing from one of Brisbane’s most talented up and coming runners.
Today in Season 2, Episode 12 I interview Brisbane runner, Nerissa O’Donnell. Nerissa is a fellow runner and friend through our connection as part of the BERT squad in Brisbane. From what I have learnt about Nerissa, she is crazily consistent with her training, competitive as anything and a big learner in the sport of running. With all of these things in mind, she somehow manages to juggle work and the responsibilities of three children (all of whom are under 10 years of age) day after day, week after week. This episode is highly insightful for all listeners, but particularly for women who have children or are planning to whilst maintaining their running. So as always, chill, throw the headphones in and enjoy listening to Nerissa as she talks all things running.
Today in Season 2 Episode 11 I interview Cam Marsh. Cam is a cofounder of the Brisbane running event and group “Run For It”. The Run for It event occurs quarterly each year with the overall mission being that of raising awareness for mental health and giving to those less fortunate. With these two ideas being at the core of the group, the social outlet and sense of belonging seem to be a natural by-product of simply getting together for a run. It seems Run For It has become somewhat of a cult in Brisbane over the last few years, attracting hundreds of local runners in line with the event’s slogan “alone we can do so little, together we can do so much”. So tune in, to hear from Cam as he talks about his background and what makes Run For It so rewarding to him and those who take part
Today in Season 2, Episode 10, I interview Brisbane runner, Avi Singh. Four years ago, Avi was hardly running, a jog here and there was about as much as he was doing with his running. To give some context, Avi discussed on the podcast that he ran a few 25 minute 5k Parkruns back in 2019. Fast forward to 2023, he can now run a 16:27 for 5k and has smashed the hotly pursued 3 hour marathon barrier, now with a PB of 2 hours, 47 minutes. So, tune in to hear Avi discuss in depth his training methods, mindset, group running and footwear.
Today in Season 2, Episode 9, I interview Brisbane runner, Avi Singh. Four years ago, Avi was hardly running, a jog here and there was about as much as he was doing with his running. To give some context, Avi discussed on the podcast that he ran a few 25 minute 5k parkruns back in 2019. Fast forward to 2023, he can now run a 16:27 for 5k and has smashed the hotly pursued 3 hour marathon barrier, now with a PB of 3 hours, 47 minutes. So, tune in to hear Avi discuss in depth his training methods, mindset, group running and footwear.
Today in Season 2, Episode 8, I interview Echuca-Moama runner, coach and podcaster, Brady Threlfall. If you’re out there in the running community listening to this podcast and don’t know the Inside Running Podcast or Brady Threllfall, I would be very surprised. A long term idol and inspiration to me and the running community, it was a real pleasure to have Brady on the show. He delves into the background and behind the scenes of the Inside Running Podcast itself, his own running and training methods, coaching, fathering, husbanding, teaching and multiple facets of the sport as it sits in this country. As that list suggests, Brady is a busy man who juggles his week to week life fairly successfully, so it was also insightful to hear how he does so, but also what has been the real challenges with these aspects over the years. So as always, relax and tune in to hear from one of Australia’s biggest running personalities and influencers, Brady Threllfall.
Today in Season 2, Episode 7, I interview runner Tim Franklin. As you may know, Tim Franklin is an Aussie currently running the world. Although charity is of course a significant inspiration of his as to why he is undergoing this amazing feat, it’s the simple notion of inspiring others to run or simply move that lies at the core of his mission. Tim started his journey on the 3rd of December, 2022 at South Bank Parkrun, in Brisbane. He aims to break the all time record for running around the world which is a target of around 425 days. This will include over 26,000 kilometres, across 23 countries and 5 continents of the world. Of course the challenge of interviewing someone who is both overseas and running around 60km a day is logistically challenging so we have broken this interview into 2 parts, with part 2 being released at a later date. So, for now, please tune in to part 1 of Tim Franklin running the world.
Today in Season 2, episode 6, I interview young Brisbane runner in America, Gus Gannon. Gus attended the prestigious private school of BBC in Brisbane finishing in the year of 2021. In 2022 Gus had an amazing running year, improving his 1500m to 10k times drastically. These significant improvements allowed Gus to be accepted into Rice University in America where he trains predominantly toward the 1500m, 3000m and steeple events. Although only 20 this year, Gus’ experience with prominent Brisbane club Intraining from a very young age, Pat Chlohessy’s elite group through highschool and now his time in America, make for a very interesting and informative episode.
Today in Season 2, episode 5, I interview Brisbane and Ipswich runner, Jude Thomas. Jude is only 21 this year and has already achieved feats as prestigious as holding the Australian Parkrun record at 14:02 and still, the holder of the U20 3000m record of 7:52. Jude currently trains with the NANCI crew and the likes of Brisbane elite runners Jack Bruce, Callum Davies and Ryan Gregson and is a sponsored athlete by prominent brand, Puma. So, tune in to hear of Jude’s story, current training and his exciting future that lies ahead.
Tim Crosbie is the first Victorian based guest on the show. By way of his running bio, there aren't many who match Tim in terms of experience. He is an elite running coach, recreational running coach, course measurer, commentator, event director, community promotor, course facilitator...the list is endless. So tune in to hear from Tim as he speaks at length about the marathon, women in running, footwear, training and the world cross country champs.
Jess Willis is truly an inspiration to all runners out there in the local community. A mother and full-time worker into her 30s, Jess manages to run a whopping 130 to 140 km per week in her training! In all that she has learnt both physically and mentally in the sport it has lead to her achieving podiums in numerous events, including 1st female in the GC50 (2021) and 2nd female in the Noosa Marathon (2022). So as always, tune in to hear from the inspiring Jess as she talks all things nutrition, training tips and managing a busy life, just like many of you are trying to do out there!
Today in season 2, episode 2, I interview Brisbane runner, Matthew Hansen. Hanso, as he is known in running circles is the youngest guest I've had on the podcast, but it certainly didn't seem that way. Having run at a high level for almost 5 years now, Hanso speaks of the sport as if he's been in it for 20. Having learnt a lot from Border Striders at a young age and the BERT squad in his later years of high school amongst other influences, Hanso is very well versed as a runner and scholar in the sport of running. Now in America at the University of New Orleans, the 18 year old is setting out to make tracks in the 3 to 10k events, both indoors and cross country. For those who know Hanso, he's a bit of a character off the track too, so it was a very interesting, yet entertaining conversation about his ups and downs in running. So as always, kick back enjoy listening to Hanso as he talks all things running.
In 2006, Nick left Nudgee College as the fastest 800m runner in the country for his age. In fact, he still holds the Nudgee record for the event at 1:48. Post school, as you could imagine Nick headed to America with huge dreams, but as the years passed by, it didn’t play out the way he had probably wished. As much as learnt abroad, injury, burnout and stress were all a prominent part of his experience in America. Although eventually dropping his 800m time sub 1:48, ultimately the challenges had become all too much. Fortunately Nick has been able to use his experiences to move from being an elite athlete into a successful coaching career; both with his group, Run the North and at Nudgee College.
Today in episode 29, I interview Brisbane runner, Callum Davies. Cal has got to be an elite Australian runner to watch. Only in his early 20s, he is still massively on the race, particularly in the events between the 1500m and 5k. Attending Villanova College as a boy, Cal was a strong runner in school, but certainly not breaking records. After his first few years of leaving school, he dropped his 1500m by over 10 seconds to hitting low 3:40s. He can now run as fast as 3:37 in the 1500m, 3:56 in the mile, sub 8 in the 3000 and 14:11 in the 5k. Having an exercise science background, it was also very insightful to discuss all things training and technique with Cal as he opens up about his upbringing and experiences as now a Puma sponsored athlete
Today in episode 28, I interview Brisbane runner Clare Geraghty. Clare has been one of the local superstars of running over the past 15 years, however has been struck down in the past few years by a very rare condition that affects the connection between her brain, neural system and leg movement for running. She has placed numerous times in Sydney’s famous City 2 Surf fun run and won several local events in Brisbane and Noosa. Claire is also a strong supporter of the Mother’s Day Classic run and Women’s International Fun Run, with her grandmother unfortunately passing from breast cancer years ago. So as always, sit back, relax and enjoy hearing from Clare as she discusses her proudest running achievements, training week, nutrition, and of course, her genuine and open conversation regarding her recent battle with her unique running condition.
Today in episode 27, I interview ex Australian ultra-runner and current marathon course measurer, Don Wallace. Don’s completion of a handful of the South African comrades marathon events, speak for themselves. Not only has he finished the event multiple times representing Australia, but has recorded a PB over the two-way hilly 89km course of 5:42 up, and 5:47 down. That’s sub 4minute km pace over serious hills for one quarter of a 24 hour day. Therefore in this interview it’s no surprise that Don talks passionately at length and detail about the historic event and lastly, about his experience as a marathon course measurer around the country. So as always, sit back, relax and enjoy hearing the stories of ex runner, Don Wallace.
Pat almost needs no introduction; he is that well renowned in the local community, country and world for his contributions to the sport. Nevertheless, I’ll go ahead and list off some stats that demonstrate his amazing achievements in running. Today Pat stands as the fourth fastest Australian marathoner of all time with a time of 2:09:39 and the current record holder for the fastest ever half marathon on Australian soil at 61:11. After retiring Pat founded the Pat Carroll Running Group, commonly known as PCRG which was one of the first running groups in Brisbane. PCRG has had up to 150+ runners at sessions and is still thriving today with Pat coaching three sessions a week and hundreds of athletes online. Unfortunately in this interview the recording of the initial 5 minutes of introductions and greetings was lost. Pat and I simply spoke about his recent high attendance at PCRG, my father being a part of his first ever session back in the early 2000s and his passion for playing the guitar away from running. It was a real privilege to have this opportunity to talk to one of our greats, so I hope you enjoy listening to Pat talk all things marathon, PCRG and reminisce on stories from his professional running days.
Pat almost needs no introduction; he is that well renowned in the local community, country and world for his contributions to the sport. Nevertheless, I’ll go ahead and list off some stats that demonstrate his amazing achievements in running. Today Pat stands as the fourth fastest Australian marathoner of all time with a time of 2:09:39 and the current record holder for the fastest ever half marathon on Australian soil at 61:11. After retiring Pat founded the Pat Carroll Running Group, commonly known as PCRG which was one of the first running groups in Brisbane. PCRG has had up to 150+ runners at sessions and is still thriving today with Pat coaching three sessions a week and hundreds of athletes online. Unfortunately in this interview the recording of the initial 5 minutes of introductions and greetings was lost. Pat and I simply spoke about his recent high attendance at PCRG, my father being a part of his first ever session back in the early 2000s and his passion for playing the guitar away from running. It was a real privilege to have this opportunity to talk to one of our greats, so I hope you enjoy listening to Pat talk all things marathon, PCRG and reminisce on stories from his professional running days.
Today in episode 25, I interview Brisbane runner and coach, Shiloh Watts. Shiloh is the coach of Watts Athletics, a Brisbane based group that caters for both adults and children. With the adults, Watts Athletics primarily focuses on group orientated running sessions based out of West End, along with online programming for those wanting to seek further assistance with their training. Shiloh also coaches a youth squad that also specialise in various track and field events. In terms of running, Shiloh seems to be like a fine wine, the older she gets the faster she runs. With a PB of 17:30 in the 5km she is now slouch herself mixing it often with the masters athletes and even the open ladies. So, sit back, relax and enjoy hearing about all things coaching and women in running from Shiloh Watts.
Today in episode 24, I interview Brisbane runner, Rory McHugh. Although still quite a young man, Rory’s life to date has certainly seen some darker times. After drinking his way through his late teens and early 20s Rory, found running as a way of curtailing such habits that were inevitably leading to poor mental health. Today he is strong advocate for mental health, demonstrated clearly by his contributions to the Move for Movember cause. In fact, in 2021, Rory ran a marathon everyday for the month of November to raise money for the cause and awareness for mental health. This weekend, the 11th and 12th of November 2022, Rory will run a whopping 180km straight in a different way of moving for Movember as part of his contributions this year. Starting at 10pm and finishing at 5pm at the well known New Farm park, he jokes that he is expecting “Ned Brockmann” scenes as he finishes such a feat. So as always, sit back, relax and enjoying hearing from the inspirational Rory as he discusses such challenges and their impact on his mental health.
**Please note certain conversations in this podcast may have a triggering effect on mental health. If you experience emotional distress as a result of listening, please reach out to someone you trust and/or call Lifeline on 13 11 14 at any time.
You wouldn't pick it, but Bella has only started running seriously this year (2022). Bella played lacrosse professionally for 15 years, including representing Australia on numerous occasions. After finishing in the sport she decided to give triathlon a go in her late 20s which lead her to pursue who strongest leg; running. She is now quickly becoming one of Brisbane's strongest female runners, having recorded times as fast as 16:58 in the 5k, 34:31 in the 10k and 1:17:07 in the half marathon. So as always, sit back, relax and enjoying hearing about Bella's interesting life story which lead her into the sport and all things women in running.
Joel describes himself as an average runner in primary and and early high school. In fact, Joel actually took up swimming and riding during high school due to a growth injury called Osgood Schlatter syndrome. To his credit, he did start to become a rather strong runner in the later years of high school, particularly over the shorter distance running events, such as 800m. Post high school, due to taking up cycling and swimming in school itself, Joel pursued triathlon along with running. He then moved away as a teacher and enjoyed some success up in far north Queensland for a period of time and returned to Brisbane at around the age of 30. It was during this time that he had a few children and started to commence his career as a multi-sport race announcer; more particularly in running, swimming, cycling and triathlon amongst many others. Therefore, this interview delves into Joel’s experience across running and triathlon as an athlete and also, his career as a race announcer and what he has learnt through his experiences with both elite athletes and officials, to recreational runners simply crossing race finish lines.
Today in episode 20, I interview Australian runner, Wayne Spies. There’s something truly special about talking to Wayne. He is so confident, yet down to earth which makes his words and stories of his running so interesting and entertaining. In school Wayne was constantly let down in his attempts at sprinting events and often coming last. It wasn’t until his primary school athletics coach in year 7 said Wayne, you’ve got to try the mile, that Wayne actually experienced some success. At 18, just after high school Wayne attempted his first Comrades Marathon in South Africa and didn’t even finish the event. He has now ran several Comrades events with much success and recorded times as quick as 2:25 over the marathon and 1:09 in the half. So as always, sit back, relax and tune in to hear from the inspirational Wayne Spies as he talks all things attitude, to comrades to nutrition.
Welcome to the Local Legends in Running Podcast, where you hear the stories from local legends of Australian running, that you’ve simply always wanted to hear. Today in episode 19, I interview Gold Coast and Brisbane runner, Liam Boudin. Liam burst onto the running scene as a young adult back in 2016 after graduating from Brisbane School, Villanova. It hasn’t always been smooth sailing for Liam; he is has faced set backs both off and on the running track, so to speak. Liam discusses honestly the fact that he was a late bloomer; literally continuing to grow taller all the way through to the age of 22. During this time and after he has faced several stress fracture related injuries. Fortunately Liam has been almost injury free over the last year or so, and as a result of his hard and consistent training with the Gold Coast Run Co , has seen major wins including the recent Bridge to Brisbane 10k. So as always, kick and relax, and enjoying hear about Liam’s Bridge to Brisbane win, his injury set backs and more recently his training and success as a high performing Gold Coast Run co runner.
Jack is the third Aussie to come on to the podcast who has head over to run in America in some form, in addition to previous guests Adam Fogg and Ky Robinson. Jack delves into his unique upbringing in Alice Springs in the Northern Territory of Australia and his move to Toowoomba, QLD for his high schooling. He goes on to discuss his experience in the American College system and now his professional running career with under armour. Jack is a young 3:36 and 4:55 1500m and mile runner respectively, so is no doubt one of the Aussies to watch over the next several years. As always, sit back, relax and enjoy hearing from one of our young Aussies abroad.
Join me as I interview previous guest, Brisbane's Cara Feain-Ryan, as she reflects specifically on her experience at the 2022 World Champs in the 3000m steeplechase event.
Adrian never ran as a child or even young adult. Now as a high performing master’s athlete at 54, Adrian Royce was also a self-confessed functioning alcoholic just 10 years ago. In this short time he has managed to run further and faster every year to achieve times as quick as 1:16 for the half marathon and 2:44 in the marathon as a 50years+ athlete. His enjoyment for the sport comes from a burning desire to get the very best out of himself despite his older age; and it is truly remarkable and inspirational. So tune in to hear from one of the country’s fastest 50 years+ athletes as talks all things racing, training, diet and simply, his inspirational uptake of running as a pastime.
Foggy as he is colloquially known in running circles, was born in England and moved to Australia in his early years. He credits the Australian education system as to why he started the sport in the first place, claiming if it wasn’t for the compulsory participation of school children in cross country events around the country, he may have never found his current passion. Foggy started to make representative teams late in primary school, which he continued to do in high school, eventually graduating from Redlands College. Foggy initially trained with the BERT squad in Brisbane and various coaches post school, but shortly after moved over to America to pursue his running career. He is now a 3:37min 1500m runner who has signed with Under Armour, and trains with an elite squad over in America. So, tune in to hear from a local legend who as an adult, has been involved in Australian, English and American running in the short span of five years.
I was delighted to converse with Louis post his amazing debut at the 2022 Gold Coast Marathon. Louis placed 4th overall and 1st out of the Oceania contingent with a time 0f 2:17:50. Louis' lead up and race could not have gone much better, so tune in to hear of all the things that made this such a fantastic start to his marathon career.
Join me as I follow up Aidan about his 2022 Gold Coast Marathon experience. Aidan finished 7th overall and 3rd in the Oceania contingent of the race with a 2:20:08. Surprisingly Aidan talks of an injury that hampered him leading into the race (despite half, 10k and 5k PBs in the past month) and a strange injury during the event that could have ended it all.
Drew has been a very competitive distance runner over the past 10 years. His major achievements include 1st at the GC 15km (2021), 2nd at Brisbane’s City 2 South (2014), 2nd in the Mooloolaba Twilight 5k (2014) and 3rd at the QLD State Cross Country Championships (2014). Amongst all of Drew’s running highlights and peaks, he has most definitely had his challenges. At the end of 2014, Drew was diagnosed with bursitis after an overuse injury to his achilles. Consequently, this led to multiple operations and several years without even being able to run. Instead, Drew found multiple ways to cross train and eventually shares his love and advice for cross training these days amongst his weekly running. So tune in for some fantastic training and racing advice and to hear of the rollercoaster running life of one of Brisbane’s greats.
Jayden is the founder and head coach of the Brisbane Athletics Academy, a business and running group that specialise in junior development and high performance in both athletics and cross country. Additionally, Jayden is the Director and Head Coach of Cross Country and Track & Field at the Brisbane Boys College. In his earlier years, Jayden was also a very handy runner himself, recording times across 2003 to 2011 as quick as 3:48 for the 1500m up to 30:27 in the 10km. So, listen in to hear from one of Brisbane’s most thriving coaches about all things coaching and running.
Today in episode 10, I interview former Olympian, Krishna Stanton. Krishna represented Australia in the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona in the 3000m. She is also a two-time Commonwealth Games representative in the 1994 Games in the 10,000m and the 2002 Games in the Marathon. Ironically, Krishna delves into why she reflects on the Commonwealth Games and even the Sydney City 2 Surf win in 1992 as arguably more meaningful experiences than her very proud achievement of the Olympic Games. Krishna is open about the challenges she experienced during her time as an athlete that makes her the person she is today. She also elaborates on the most rewarding aspect of the sport being the social side, its impact on mental health and simply the opportunity to continue to make the most of what you have as you get older too. So, enjoy hearing about the challenging, yet rewarding life behind Krishna as she talks honesty and genuinely about her experiences in the sport.
Episode photo courtesy of George Herringshaw
Cara is currently one of the top women’s runners in the country. She specialises in the steeplechase and is currently ranked amongst the top three women in Australia and top 50 in the world. Cara has also recorded very respectful times professionally across the 1500m to 10,000m on the track and also the 5k and 10k on the road. She only narrowly missed qualifying for the Olympics last year and still has ambitions to compete at the World Champs and Comm Games this year with teams announced late July. So tune in to hear from one of Australia’s best female middle distance runners as she talks honestly, but modestly about her upbringing and experience as a young professional female runner in the country.
Jake’s story is genuinely inspirational. Between the age of 20 and 30 Jake was hardly running; instead, he was leading a life of drinking and smoking. At the age of now 40, Jake completes a very regimented weekly program and has recorded PBs as fast as 16:30 for the 5k and 1:16 for the half marathon. Anyone can look at Jake’s running times from years ago and until now and it is clear that he has improved as runner. What we don’t see in these observations though, is the personal self-development Jake has undergone over this period, with running being the main catalyst to simply becoming a better person. So, as always, enjoy hearing from another local legend, Jake Townsend, as he sheds light into his truly remarkable and motivational story.
Chris is one of Brisbane’s most experienced and busiest running coaches. He is the founder and head coach of the Galeforce Running Squad which he started in 2007. Since 2011, he has been the Head Athletics Coach & Coordinator at Stuartholme School and more recently has been employed as the Head Coach of Middle Distance and Cross Country at Nudgee College. Additionally, he is a life member of the Rockhampton Road Runners and former Race Director of the Ipswich Park2Park fun run. Finally, let’s not forget about Chris’ individual running achievements as a younger runner too. As highschooler in 1989, he won the All Schools Cross Country Championships and as an adult, went on to record PBs as fast as 30:47 in the 10k and 69:23 in the Half Marathon in the late 90s. So, enjoy hearing from one of Brisbane’s most decorated running coaches, as he provides insights into his running achievements and in more recent times, his coaching experiences.
Dan is a true legend in the ultra-running world. Although a man who has put down some very respectful times on the road, it’s his endurance both physically and mentally that makes him unique in the local running community. Not shy to wake up at 3am to fit in his 50+km runs, Dan’s training regime is one to truly admire. His running achievements include making the Australian team for the 24 hour running championships in 2019 and he has held 5 different Australian age group records in ultra-running. Additionally, he is a two-time winner of the young ultra runner of the year award. His 24 hour distance PB is a whopping 237kms, which is an impressive 6:00 per km pace for this time. So, enjoy hearing about Dan’s stories in the ultra-scene, particularly around his nutrition and mental applications to both training and competition.
Brisbane’s Aidan Hobbs is arguably the king of Brisbane and QLD running. He has been on the competitive scene for the last 15 years and in this time has managed to win the Brisbane Marathon in 2008, place in several major fun runs and officially hold the most parkrun course records across Australia from any runner. More importantly, it’s the side of Aidan you don’t see until you actually converse with him. Working in public health, he seamlessly acknowledges the concept of something like parkrun being much bigger than himself, describing it as very much about the community and its significant benefits on the physical and mental health of all involved. Although a competitive person by nature, this enjoyment and participation based attitude is also evident in his long standing history and tradition at the City 2 Surf fun run in Sydney, attending the event consecutively over the last 27years, wearing his notorious superman costume. An Intraining and master’s athlete, Aidan has so much to share about his experience in running, the highs and lows and the stories that have made him the person and runner he is today.
Brisbane's Katie Dall is as inspiring as a runner, as she is a coach. Running in her life has taken many forms, but has probably been more present at the the ultra distance level. Katie's background in fitness is highly varied; she has competed as a body builder, weight lifter and triathlete, to name a few. Her focus more recently has been on her Brisbane running group and business, Club KT, which was founded in 2020 recently after the influx of COVID in Australia. Club KT has seen great successes in many facets, but its the importance they place on the benefits of running on mental health that resonated with me during this interview. The club have arguably the strongest social media presence from any running group in Brisbane, drawing large numbers to sessions. Join me as you hear about KTs back ground in the sport and her passion for building positive mental health in the local Brisbane community through running.
Louis (AKA “Louie”) McAfee is currently a Brisbane based runner, training with the Gold Coast Run Co (GCRC). After graduating school in 2013, Louis moved overseas to join Boise State University to progress his running career. After three years there, he returned to Brisbane to join his current group, the GCRC. In the last handful of years, Louis has recorded some amazing results in major fun runs, including a 3rd place at Australia’s most well renowned fun run, City 2 Surf in Sydney in 2019 and 2nd place at Bridge to Brisbane in 2021, along with many other running events on the track. In part 1 you are introduced to Louis as a person and a runner and hear his story from running in highschool to returning to Brisbane to train with the Gold Coast Run Co. Part 2 will delve into the challenges that Louis has faced as a runner, his goals moving forward and then the usual quickfire 10 questions to finish where Louis expresses his concerns for AA progressing into the future.
Louis (AKA “Louie”) McAfee is currently a Brisbane based runner, training with the Gold Coast Run Co (GCRC). After graduating school in 2013, Louis moved overseas to join Boise State University to progress his running career. After three years there, he returned to Brisbane to join his current group, the GCRC. In the last handful of years, Louis has recorded some amazing results in major fun runs, including a 3rd place at Australia’s most well renowned fun run, City 2 Surf in Sydney in 2019 and 2nd place at Bridge to Brisbane in 2021, along with many other running events on the track. In part 1 you are introduced to Louis as a person and a runner and hear his story from running in highschool to returning to Brisbane to train with the Gold Coast Run Co. Part 2 will delve into the challenges that Louis has faced as a runner, his goals moving forward and then the usual quickfire 10 questions to finish where Louis expresses his concerns for AA progressing into the future.
Clay Dawson's name is synonymous with the Brisbane running scene. When you think of running in Brisbane, you think of Clay Dawson. He has won the Brisbane marathon more than any other male runner; winning it in 2014, 2017 and 2019. He is the figurehead of the Intraining running brand and is clearly a giving guy, being a teacher, assistant running coach and a co-founder of the NANCI running crew in Ipswich. A true legend of the running community, it was a real pleasure interviewing Clay and hearing his story. I hope you enjoy.
Welcome to the Local Legends in Running Podcast where you hear the stories from local legends of Australian running, that you simply always wanted to hear. My name is Oli Jones and I am the former founder and coach of the West End Running Group in Brisbane and currently the Head Coach of Cross Country and Middle Distance Running at the Anglican Church Grammar School, aka Churchie. It is my intention on this podcast to have genuine and insightful conversations with Australian runners to simply educate runners and coaches within the community and raise the profile of running in this country. I am no Australian superstar runner, but I do know a few. I hope you enjoy.
Recorded 5th March, 2022
Released Saturday 12th March, 2022
Ky is a local Brisbane boy, growing up in the early 2000s in East Brisbane and graduating from the prestigious Anglican Church Grammar School in 2019. In 2021, as a young 18 year old, Ky courageously left Australia to join Stanford University in the US; both a decision for progression in his running career and studies. He is now currently one of Australia’s fastest distance runners over the 3k, 5k and 10k events. Join me to hear about his early days, his move to Stanford, Stanford daily life and everything training, from his diet, to the shoes he wears.
Episode cover photo courtesy of Amanda Bloxsom Photography.