What I Learned from 42.2km on the Gold Coast

I ran the Gold Coast Marathon on the 6th of July and it delivered everything you'd expect from Queensland in July: blue skies, big energy… and an unexpected serving of heat and humidity. Well, at least compared to what we had been experiencing in Sydney over the last 3 months. What started as a dream run quickly turned into a test of pacing, patience, and how to manage my nutrition over the whole race. 

Here are 5 key lessons from the 42.2km that taught me more than just how to suffer in style:

1. Start Slower. Like, Slower Than You Think.

The hype was high and the legs were feeling too fresh. But the Gold Coast sun kicked in early, and I learned, yet again, that early pace is like borrowing energy on credit. Negative splitting is the gold standard, and I’ll be chasing that smarter pacing next time around.

2. Heat + Humidity? Don’t Underestimate It.

Despite training through winter, race day was warm and thick with humidity. My heart rate crept up earlier than expected, and hydration needs skyrocketed. Next time, I’ll prep for any warmer races with some heat adaptation, or at the very least, adjust pacing and fueling expectations accordingly.

3. Fuel Early, But Not All at Once.

I came in hot with the gels, trying to stay “ahead” on carbs, but ended up over-fueling early, which led to a small amount GI discomfort, but mostly a sense of overconfidence. It is easy to forget to fuel or to underestimate your fueling needs. This can be even more dramatic in hot and humid conditions. I unintentionally tapered my fueling, that dropped away as the race ran on, leading to an inevitable wall (or cliff) that needed to be taken on to finish the race. My reflection on fueling will be “Steady and Spaced Wins the Race.” Thankfully I was well practiced using gels but they can cause significant GI discomfort and like the running training, Gut training is real and should be commenced as soon as possible.

4. Carbon Shoes: Try Before You Fly.

Yes, I wore shiny new carbon-plated shoes on race day. No, I hadn’t properly tested them over long distances. They felt great at first, but by 30km, unfamiliar pressure points turned into real problems. The takeaway? Save the race-day innovation for your playlist, not your footwear. I will be sticking to my daily trainers or tempo shoes from here on out. 

5. Mind Over Muscle

When the pace slips, the heat bites, and the finish line feels a lifetime away, it’s your mind that keeps you going. Having a mantra, a purpose, or even just the mental cue to “get to the next drink station” can be the difference between crumbling and pushing through. I found it very helpful breaking the race down, especially in the last 10 km, into bite sized chunks and rewarding myself for each mini milestone. 

Would I do it again?
In a heartbeat. I’m already taking on board everything I learned and gearing up for the next event. 

If you’re thinking of taking on your own marathon or stepping up your distance, take these lessons with you. It’s a long way to run—but the pride at the finish line? Unmatched.

Until next time!

Seb