We’re beginning this look at 2023 with the world cross-country because . . . well. Because it is the world cross-country, it was being staged in Australia and it is the biggest international event staged here since the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games (due respect to the 2001 IAAF Grand Prix final and the Melbourne 2006 and Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.
How to solve a big problem? Create up to six more problems almost as difficult as the one you were trying to solve in the first place.
This thought came to mind after watching Genevieve Gregson run 2:23:08 in last Sunday’s Valencia marathon. Just as she has so many times now throughout her career, Gregson produced on the big occasion. When it mattered. If you wanted someone to run for your life, Genevieve Gregson would be a pretty good choice.
If Courtney Dauwalter could bend the laws of time, her chosen expedition wouldn't be to an exotic epoch, but a rigorous venture back to the pioneering days of the American continent—a wagon train traverse reminiscent of the Oregon Trail. Her aim? To test her resilience in the face of adversity, to explore the untamed wilderness and see what resilience might flourish within her.
Beer tunnels, a bridge across the track taking spectators to the infield, food trucks, flash tattoos and a DJ – spectators above a certain age had to be advised this was not a reference to a ‘superior’ department store but the job description of the bloke playing the music – meant there was never a dull moment. In deference to the same spectators, the volume was mercifully lowered.
This weekend, the world’s best current 10,000 metres runner will be contesting the Valencia marathon. That’s Joshua Cheptegei of Uganda in case you’ve not been paying attention. He has won the 10,000 gold medal at the past three world championships.
Anyone of any age who engages in running should be in tune with their body and seek medical advice before embarking on any intensive activity (including changes to said activity) that may unduly extend them. This is critical should the aspiring athlete have underlying medical conditions and/or ongoing health issues requiring medication.
Since you ask, the five male nominees are Kelvin Kiptum, Neeraj Chopra, Noah Lyles, Ryan Crouser and Mondo Duplantis; the female nominees are Tigst Assefa, Femke Bol, Faith Kipyegon, Shericka Jackson and Yulimar Rojas.
Stephen Dinneen is a well-known coach on the Australian middle distance and distance running scene. A fast runner himself, with PBs ranging from 3:48 over 1500m to 65 minutes for the half-marathon (all times taken from World Athletics)..
These days, Stephen is a coach to dozens of strong runners, ranging from...
In the heart of Western Australia's picturesque Avon Valley, the highly anticipated Transcend returns in 2024 with options for all fitness levels. Mark your calendars for 22 June, where you have the option to take part in the Kids Dash, 6km Hike, 6km Run, 40km Team Relay Hike (2-3 ppl 12/16/12km), 40km Hike, 65km Team Relay Run (2-5 ppl 12/12/12/16/12km) or the ultimate challenge, the 65km Ultra.
