Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival Run Journey
12 weeks ago, a group of our Nike Sales Specialists and Store Managers, were given the opportunity to begin an exciting journey, kicking off at the MCG.
These athletes, of all backgrounds, and abilities, decided to challenge themselves, committing to either a full or half marathon at the Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival.
Kitted out with the best training footwear and gear, they started their run journey.
Over the coming weeks, our Athletes would follow their own training programs, with the guidance of Nike Run Club Coach, Lydia O’Donnell.
Athletes participated in regular workshops and training days, covering all you need to know to be strong and healthy to take on the big run. They discovered new learnings about Nike performance products and the history behind the shoes we race in today.
The educational journey was exciting, covering everything from nutrition to training advice. Including how to train around female cycles, recovery, conditioning, tapering and race day preparation.
These workshops were led by amazing experts, including Richard Johnson and Danielo Oliviera De Silva from La Trobe University, Matt Fieldsend, Podiatrist, Shona Halson, Recovery & Sleep Expert, Sinead Diver, Nike athlete and Steve Monaeghetti, Nike Athlete of 36 years.
We spoke to some of our athletes and got them to share their experiences.
Chloe Radovic - Nike Indooroopilly - Assistant Manager
What inspired you to take on the NMMF Half Marathon?
I grew up in Melbourne before moving to Brisbane a year ago but I'd never run my home city's half! I was also coming back from a triple break in my ankle, leg and foot and a 12 week stint in a moon boot so I wanted a goal to prove to myself that I could come back stronger than ever.
What did you gain from this journey?
An absolute wealth of knowledge and so many opportunities and experiences to meet new people, experience a race like never before and test out some incredible products too!!
What did you learn along the way?
That everyone battles with themselves sometimes and mental tenacity is key to being a runner, no matter what level/discipline you're at.
What would you say to others who may want to try running? Or take on a new running challenge?
Just do it! Start slow and learn how your body feels and what it's like to run. Find others who run and join them - it's a social sport! Running is a sport that does not discriminate. Anybody can start and anybody can run. It's an empowering sport.
Emma Francis - Nike Brighton - Athlete
What inspired you to take on the NMMF Half Marathon?
To challenge myself physically and mentally.
Were you a runner before the NMMF Run Journey?
I was running however I had never completed this distance before.
What did you gain from participating in the NMMF Run Journey?
A gained a lot of knowledge surrounding performance, recovery and product. I also gained a lot of inspiration and motivation being on a similar journey with others. I was able to have a lot of really enjoyable experiences along the way and have made some great memories!
How was your NMMF race day?
Race day was a mix of anticipation, nerves, adrenaline, and excitement. The atmosphere and energy on the day was incredible and it was crazy to experience running with thousands of other people.
What would you say to others who may want to try running? Or take on a new running challenge?
Do it! You can achieve whatever you set your mind to!
Charlotte Howard - Nike Southland - Athlete
What inspired you to take on the NMMF Half Marathon?
The challenge of completing something I never thought was possible for me.
Were you a runner before the NMMF Run Journey?
I came from a team sport background (netball), so long distance running was not an activity I chose or wanted to do. I would run maybe 5-6k a couple times a week during lockdown.
What did you gain from this journey?
I gained so much! Some amazing friendships, product knowledge, resilience, mental strength and an appreciation for what my body can really do and achieve!
What did you learn along the way?
I learnt that your limitations are only the ones you put on yourself. The human body can achieve so much when trained effectively.
How was your NMMF race day?
Race day for me was surreal! Apart from my music on my watch not connecting (rip), I had an amazing time!!
What would you say to others who may want to try running? Or take on a new running challenge?
Start small and build up.
Julia Gnocato - Nike Melbourne Central - Athlete
Were you a runner before the NMMF Run Journey?
I have never been a runner . I am an athlete when it comes to basketball. This is the first time I’ve ran anything further than the usual 5 km run.
What did you learn along the way?
I learnt that I am mentally tough on myself. I always underestimate everything in regards to my performance, including actual race day. I surprised myself and ran much better than I thought I was capable of.
What would you say to others who may want to try running? Or take on a new running challenge?
I thought it was very hard before I ran and started training. I would recommend this journey to beginners or anyone at any type of level of running . The connections and benefits that came out of this journey are insane and not to mention the actual amazing people you get to connect with .
What was your favourite part of the experience?
Running around the MCG!! And feeling so special to Nike throughout the whole entire journey. Also having my name on my Alphas. Blown away!!
Congratulations to all the RPG employees who decided to challenge themselves by participating in the Nike Melbourne Marathon! We can't wait to do it all again next year.
Love running as much as we do?