With Melissa Harris
Q: Tell us what you like about running?
A: I love the freedom running offers. If you have comfy clothes, a running bra and running shoes, no matter where you are, you can go for a run.
Q: Would you recommend running?
A: Yes. We started when our kids were young. Jess was in a pram and I would push her, and Jackson was on his bike and would ride in front of us. Eventually they both were on mountain bikes and getting up at 4am on a Saturday to come with us on a 21km training loop around Mackay. (Our kids are now 14 & 17.)
Q: What distance are you doing in this year’s BMA Mackay Marina Run?
A: 21.1km.
Q: What other runs have you done?
A: Yeppoon Half, Hamo Hilly Half, Airlie Half, Townsville 10km, 70.3 Busso & Cairns, plus Noosa & Mooloolaba Tris.
Q: What are your training Goals?
A: My main races this year are the Hamilton Island Hilly Half and our Mackay Marina Run half marathon. I would like to do as many Mackay Road Runners’ races as well this season.
Q: Do you train solo or with a group?
A: I mix it up. My main training group is Tri Activ8 tribe, but I also do run on my own if I need to take the kids to sport or my work schedule gets in the way of our group runs. I’m lucky I have a hubby who runs I can always get him to run with me to give me a push.
Q: What do you like about BMA Mackay Marin Run?
A: I love the course. Not only is it flat but it’s a great scenic course. I hate runs that are loop and you must do 2 or 3 loops; they do my head in. We have a beautiful river we run over twice.
Melissa’s running tip: Always watch for trip Hazards. I tripped over on the finish chute carpet at the Noosa Tri in 2015. My finish photo is of me being helped up by the guy behind me. I love running in winter, it’s perfect weather for running long. Over the years I’ve learnt what to eat and when to eat before a run. My best results always come from being relaxed and prepared on race day.
With Graeme Harris
Q: Tell us what you like about running?
A: It clears my head. If I’ve had a big day at work or bad day, I can shut the world out and just run. I have found it the best thing for your mental health.
Q: Would you recommend running?
A: Yes. Anyone can run and start at any age. I had no formal training when I started.
Melissa started running to lose baby weight and I decided to keep her company, and I’ve gone from there. I have found a great group of friends through running as well. I always tell people to join Mackay Road Runners as it is a great way to meet people.
Q: What distance are you doing in this year’s BMA Mackay Marina Run?
A: 21.1km. It will be my 10th.
Q: What other runs have you done?
A: TYeppoon Half, Townsville Half, Hamo Hilly Half, Airlie Half, Run the Great Whitsunday Trail, Eungella Half plus many runs with Mackay Road Runners.
Q: What are your training Goals?
A: Same as Mel but also do the Great Whitsunday Trail run. I train all year around and if there is a good run that’s not too far to travel, I try and see if we can get there.
Q: Do you train solo or with a group?
A: I have a mate I try and run with once a week otherwise I go to the weekly Mackay Road Runners’ track sessions out at the ARC and run with Mel.
Q: What do you like about BMA Mackay Marin Run?
A: It is flat and fast, plus the weather is always perfect.
Graeme’s running tip: Always smile for the camera and if you’re hurting, fake it, and remember someone else is hurting more than you are.
The worst running experience was when we travelled to Townsville to do the half marathon. Mel and I had not been feeling the best all week leading up to it, but we went anyway. We both ended up with the flu on race day. Mel vomited once she crossed the finish line. I finished the race barely and spent the next week sick with the flu in bed. I learnt never to start a race if you’re not 100% it’s not worth the pain you will pay later.