Quarantine Quest

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Embark on a morning of exploration, rejuvenation and community at the Q-Station

Join us for a unique adventure on Sat 31 August 2024, that starts and finishes at the iconic Quarantine Station. Run the scenic trails around North Head, where history and nature converge, and finish at the picturesque Quarantine Beach. Dive into the stunning ocean for a refreshing swim and then recharge and relax in an authentic Finnish wood-fired sauna from Cedar and Salt. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the ocean as you restore your mind and body in the lovely heat, post-swim. Finish your experience with a well-deserved coffee and brekky from the scrumptious Wharf Cafe. Our BEXI ‘Quarantine Quest’ blends the excitement of a run/walk adventure with the tranquility of wellness activities, making it a must-do for all our BEXI members looking to enhance their physical, mental and emotional well-being.

Routes

Choose from four exhilarating walk/run options – 5k, 10k, 15k or 20k. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or an endurance run around North Head, there’s a route perfectly suited to your pace and preference.

5km:  ‘Quarantine Quirk Dash’ – 100m elevation (easy)

This invigorating 5km run/walk adventure begins at the Q-station carpark. Discover the scenic beauty of North Head as you loop through its historic trails, soaking in panoramic views of Sydney’s iconic skyline and harbour. This route offers a perfect blend of easy terrain and 100m elevation, making it accessible for participants of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or simply looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll amidst breathtaking vistas, the Quarantine Quirk Dash promises a memorable experience. Lace up your shoes and join us for a morning of exploration and inspiration at one of Sydney’s most picturesque locations.

 

10km: ‘Headland Heights Hustle’ – 206m elevation (moderate)

A thrilling 10km run/walk that commences at the Q-station carpark. Embark on a journey through the scenic trails of North Head, where every turn unveils breathtaking panoramic views of Sydney’s skyline and harbour. From the iconic “hole-in-the-wall” passage to the serene shores of Shelly Beach, and around the tranquil waters of Manly Cove to Collins Beach, this route offers a perfect balance of moderate challenge and exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or an adventurous soul seeking new horizons, the Headland Heights Hustle promises an unforgettable experience.

15km: ‘North Head Odyssey’ – elevation 221m (moderate to challenging)

A captivating run/walk starting at the Q-station carpark. This adventurous route weaves through the diverse trails of North Head, offering sweeping panoramic views of Sydney’s iconic harbor and skyline. Traverse the historic “hole-in-the-wall” passage, then continue to the serene Shelly Beach, before heading to the stunning Queenscliff Beach. Your journey takes you along the picturesque Manly Corso to Fairlight Beach, then back through the tranquil waters of Manly Cove to Collins Beach. Conquer the 221m elevation gain as you return, enjoying each hill’s challenge and the stunning vistas that await. The North Head Odyssey is perfect for those seeking a blend of moderate to challenging terrain, with every step offering a new perspective of Sydney’s coastal beauty. 

 

20km: ‘Coastal Cliff Conquest’ – elevation 257m (moderate to challenging)

A challenging 20km run/walk adventure starting at the Q-station carpark. Begin your journey along the scenic trails of North Head, where panoramic views of Sydney’s harbour and skyline unfold with each step. Pass through the iconic “hole-in-the-wall” and continue to the tranquil shores of Shelly Beach. From there, venture onward to the golden sands of Queenscliff Beach, and then follow the vibrant Manly Corso to the picturesque Forty Baskets Beach. Experience the serenity of Manly Cove before heading to the secluded beauty of Collins Beach. Brace yourself for the 257m elevation gain that leads to rewarding vistas at every turn. The Coastal Cliff Conquest is designed for adventurers seeking a blend of endurance and exploration amidst Sydney’s coastal wonders.


Logistics

  • All routes will start/finish at Q-Station carpark, Scenic Drive, Manly
  • All routes will commence at 6.30am (timings tbc)
  • Ensure you have a printed copy of the map and instructions 
  • Ensure you carry your own water and nutrition
  • For distances over 10km – aim to consume 30-45gsm carbohydrates per hour
  • Ensure you carry a compression bandage, first aid kit, whistle and iPhone
  • Pack your swimmers and 2x towels – leave in car for swim/sauna after run/walk
  • There is a short 10min walk down to Quarantine Beach from the carpark
  • There are 2x group sessions for the sauna – 8am, 9am (timings tbc)
  • Sauna is limited to 12 ladies per group (total 24 ladies)
  • It is recommended to take a cold plunge in the ocean before entering sauna and every 15mins during session
  • Sauna is wood-fired for authentic Scandinavian experience
  • Enjoy coffee and brekky with friends before/during/after sauna/swim activities
  • Final timings and logistics will be confirmed closer to the time

Cost 
  • Cost is $45 per person 
  • Includes adventure run/walk and 60min sauna session (per session)
  • Sauna limited to 12 ladies per group session (total 24 ladies)
  • Spaces limited, so best book early to secure your spot!

Vines & Trails

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Join us for a sip and stride on the Six Foot Track

Introducing our BEXI “Vines & Trails: A Sip and Stride on the Six Foot Track” – where the scenic beauty of the Blue Mountains meets the exquisite taste of local wines. We’ll embark on a journey through lush forests and stunning vistas as we walk/run the iconic Six Foot Track on Sat 22 June 2024. On our return, we’ll indulge our palate with a curated wine tasting at the stunning Dryridge Estate, savoring the flavors of the region amidst nature’s embrace. It’s an unforgettable blend of adventure and indulgence, where every step is paired with a sip of sophistication. Join us for an experience that delights the senses and nourishes the soul.

This exclusive event invites BEXI members to experience the perfect blend of outdoor exploration and refined taste, courtesy of Dryride Estate. Join us for a day of camaraderie, discovery and delightful indulgence (in true BEXI-style). 

Routes

Choose from four exhilarating options – 5k, 10k, 15k or 20k. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging run, there’s a route perfectly suited to your pace and preference. Traverse the scenic landscapes of the Blue Mountains at your own rhythm, with each kilometer offering new sights to behold and flavors to savour.  All options start and finish at Megalong Cemetery, Megalong Valley. 

5km:  “Vista Vineyard Trail” – 77m elevation (easy)

This gentle 5km route winds through picturesque vineyards and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Perfect for beginners and leisurely walkers, this route combines easy terrain with delightful scenery, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a relaxed yet rewarding experience. This is an in/out walk/run from Megalong Cemetery to Dryridge Estate.  Start 9am.

 

10km: “Forest Foothills Run” – 185m elevation (moderate)

The 10k route takes you on a journey through lush forested trails and rolling foothills of the Six Foot Track. With moderate elevation changes and varied terrain, this route offers a satisfying challenge for intermediate runners and hikers. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature while enjoying occasional glimpses of distant mountain vistas. This is an in/out/loop run with 185m elevation. Kick off at Megalong Cemetery, follow Six Foot Track, turn around and make way to Dryridge Estate. Start 8.30am

 

15km: “Ridgeview Ramble” – elevation 360m (moderate to challenging)

Embark on a scenic adventure along the 15km Ridgeview Ramble, where you’ll traverse rugged ridges and explore hidden valleys. This route combines moderate to challenging terrain with breathtaking views, rewarding participants with a sense of accomplishment as they conquer each hill and valley. Suitable for experienced hikers and runners seeking an exhilarating outdoor experience. As with the 10km, continue on the Six Foot Track until 6km and then turn around heading for Dryridge Estate. Start 8am.  

 

20km: “Mountain Majesty Marathon” – elevation 563m (challenging)

Brace yourself for the ultimate test of endurance on the 20km Mountain Majesty Marathon. This challenging route takes you on a journey through rugged mountain trails and steep ascents, offering unparalleled views of the majestic landscape below. With demanding terrain and significant elevation gain, this route is designed for seasoned athletes and adventurous spirits looking to push their limits and conquer the mountains. As with 10km option, continue on Six Foot Track, cross Coxs River, turn around at 8.5km heading for Dryridge Estate. Start 8am.   

 

Logistics

  • All above routes will meet at Megalong Cemetery, cnr Megalong Rd and Aspinall Rd, Megalong Valley, NSW 2785
  • Drive is about 2.5hrs from Northern Beaches
  • All routes will have a Run Leader to support and guide you along the way 
  • All routes will meet at Dryridge Estate for Cellar Door tasting and Ploughman’s lunch/cheese board at 12pm
  • Ensure you have a printed copy of the map and instructions 
  • Ensure you carry your own water and nutrition
  • For distances over 5km – aim to consumer 30-45gsm carbohydrates per hour
  • Ensure you carry a compression bandage, first aid kit, whistle and iPhone
  • There is a 2km return back to car after wine tasting – save some energy!
  • Ensure you have a non-drinking driver to drive you home 
  • Our event will conclude at 2pm 
Gear Checklist

  • Running gear – BEXI singlet/tee, shorts/leggings, socks, trail shoes, crop-top, BEXI visor
  • Watch/GPS – make sure it is charged
  • Hydration vest (10km+) – 1/1.5ltr bladder containing water and soft flasks containing carb drink (Tailwind)
  • Waist belt (if you don’t have a hydration vest) – to hold your nutrition and water bottle
  • Nutrition – gels, bars, bloks, lollies, sandwich, etc.
  • Snakebite bandage
  • Headtorch (for those starting early)
  • Whistle
  • Mobile phone with CAPRA app installed
  • Change of clothes at finish
  • Tissues, body-glide (anti-chafe)
  • Sun cream
  • Bags of fun! 

 

 

Tanya – my journey

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Read more

Moira – my journey

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Mother’s Day Fun Run – Sun 9 May 2021

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Read more

Jump-into-Summer ’20 – Week 2

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When you start taking care of yourself, you start feeling better, you start looking better, and you start to attract better.
It all starts with you!

Great start to our Jump-into-Summer ’20 challenge last week! Loved seeing so many familiar faces with lots of awesome energy. We have added an extra outdoor cycle session – Fridays, 6am at Tramshed for a lap around the lake (or more). Big thanks to Kaye Chan for leading this session. This week we have a fun Super-Session challenge planned – all will be revealed by the coaches.

IMPORTANT – Our Bootcamp classes are proving very popular, which is fab!  However, it is important that we comply with C-19 restrictions, which means we can only have 20 members per class. To monitor numbers, we have created a Bootcamp Booking Sheet on Google Docs – please could you enter your name in the class you wish to attend. If we exceed the limit for the one class, you have the option to attend the other class. Appreciate your support in making this work.

Week 2
  • Exercise Challenge – attend as many group training sessions as possible from our weekly timetable below. Note there is a new outdoor trail cycle on Friday mornings at 6am with Kaye:

 
  • Wellbeing Challenge – Go for a barefoot walk on the beach
  • Wildcard Challenge – none this week, next one in Week 3
  • Super-Session Challenge – Cryptic clue – ‘Something forgotten or excluded’ (to be revealed by the coaches this week)
  • Consistency Challenge – commit to attend 3+ sessions per week (with your coach or buddy)

Wildcard Challenge: Share a random fact about yourself 

  • Sue Addison was a professional tennis lines person
  • Helen Paris can ride a unicycle
  • Roslyn Meyer did Latin American and Ballroom dancing in her early 20s
  • Dee Fitzgerald had a dinner-date with Gwyneth Paltrow’s bodyguard at the Oxo Tower in London
  • Bec Fry can jump over her own leg (there’s video evidence on facebook)
  • Andrea Drury raced motorbikes
  • Koula Enev was in the USA when September 11 happened and on the same flight that got hijacked the day before!!
  • Sam Brown fell asleep on a train in Europe – woke up in Hungary and was detained by border guards
  • Katrina Maw deliberately smashed through the toll boom gate on the Harbour Bridge to see if she could, after throwing her coins in!!
  • Clare Davies gave birth to a millennium baby boy on 1st Jan 2000
  • Kelly Therkelsen met Will Smith when she was in Yr10 doing work experience on Video Smash Hits on Channel 7 – he even kissed her hand!!

For more random facts about our BEXI friends – check out Race-FIT and Walk-to-Run facebook pages.

Jump-into-Summer – Week 1

 

 

BEXI Spring Fling – Logistics

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Our BEXI Spring Fling takes place on Sat 19 Sept 2020. It’s a fun run which follows the magnificent coastline from the Sydney Opera House to Manly Beach. Runners choose their distance and where they would like to start. We all cross the finish line at Little Manly Beach to the cheer from our BEXI buddies. Our aim is to have fun and take in the stunning beauty that the Northern Beaches has to offer.

35km Course

Start on the steps of the Opera House – hug the coastline all the way towards Little Manly Beach.
We will meet 5.15am at Collaroy SLSC and car pool to the Opera House – start 6am. Support vehicle will meet you key meeting points to provide you with drinks and nutrition. Celebrate the finish as you cross the finish line at Little Manly Beach.

→  Detailed 35km instructions 

20km Course

Start at Taronga Zoo – hug the coastline all the way to Little Manly Beach.
We will meet 5.45am at Manly Library Carpark and car pool to Taronga Zoo – start 6.30am. Support vehicle will meet you at regular meeting points to provide you with drinks and nutrition. Celebrate the finish as you cross the finish line at Little Manly Beach.

→  Detailed 20km instructions 

10km Course (One-way)

Start at the Spit Bridge – follow the Spit-to-Manly Walk, all the way to Little Manly Beach.
We will meet 6.45am at Manly Library Carpark and car pool to the Spit Bridge – start 7.30am. Follow the Spit-to-Manly walk. Celebrate the finish as you cross the finish line at Little Manly Beach.

→  Detailed 10km (one-way) instructions 

10km Course (Out/Back)

Start at Little Manly – follow the Manly-to-Spit walk, turn around at 5km mark and return to start at Little Manly Beach.
We will meet 7.15am at Little Manly Beach (left of Manly Ferry) – start 7.30am. Follow the Spit-to-Manly walk, turn-around at 5km. Celebrate the finish as you cross the finish line at Little Manly Beach.

→  Detailed 10km (out/back) instructions 

5km Course (Out/Back)

Start at Little Manly – follow the Manly-to-Spit walk, turn around at 2.5km mark and return to start at Little Manly Beach.
We will meet 7.45am at Little Manly Beach (left of Manly Ferry) – start 8am. Follow the Spit-to-Manly walk, turn-around at 2.5km. Celebrate the finish as you cross the finish line at Little Manly Beach.

→  Detailed 5km (out/back) instructions

Nutrition & Fuel

It is important that each runner is self-sufficient on the day. Please carry your own hydration and nutrition supplies.

As a guideline runners should consume 30-45gms* of carbohydrate per hour (*dependent on body weight, experience and pace).  If you are running for 4 hours – aim to carry 5-6 gels (or equivalent carbs – sports drink, chews, bloks). If you are running 2-2½ hours – aim to carry 2-3 gels.

Hydration guidelines should be based on 600mls* per hour (*dependent on your sweat rate, weather conditions and length of event). If you are prone to cramps or sweat excessively – ensure you take on electrolytes and salt tablets.  (Note – there are electrolytes in some gels/sports drinks.)

If you concerned about your nutrition, please contact Tamara Madden at Mad on Nutrition.

What to Bring

Dress in layers, as it will be cool to start. Wear your BEXI singlet (preferably), shorts/leggings, visor/cap , sunglasses, sunscreen, vaseline (for chaffing), watch/GPS, socks, running shoes, hydration bladder (optional), waist belt (optional), nutrition (see above).

On-course Support

A BEXI support vehicle will be on-course supporting the 35km and 20km runners at key meeting points. Drinks and nutrition will be provided at these support stops. The vehicle will also carry drop-off bags for change of clothing at finish.

Who can Join

This is not a sanctioned event or registered race, it is simply a social fun run for our BEXI members, friends and family. The more the merrier!

COVID-19 Safety Plan

Based on recent guidelines from the NSW Chief Health Officer (14 Sept 2020), we are limited to group sizes of 20 max at outdoor public gatherings. We will therefore be directing participants once they cross the ‘finish line’, to various designated meeting points in the area.

  

 

2019 – Own your Success

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Happy New Year!

We’ve had a wonderful few days away camping in Bright, Victoria. Lots of outdoor activities and much-needed R&R.

I always love to read a good book while on holiday – this year it was Michelle Obama’s ‘Becoming’.  A fabulous read – highly recommend!

One key message that Michelle repeats in her book, and which totally resonates with me, is that: ‘failure is a feeling long before it’s an actual result’.  

This got me thinking about our BEXI focus for 2019. If success is something we want – then we’ve got to own it.

  • It’s about being consistent. Showing up. Creating positive routines. Every day.
  • It’s about supporting others to succeed. Celebrating their achievements, because when we focus on the element of thriving, we all benefit.
  • It’s about thinking big and believing that we can. It creates structure and a game plan, no matter how small the goals are.
  • It’s about applying a positive mindset.  Embracing change. Sharing information.
  • Lastly, it’s about showing gratitude.  For our friends and family who support us. The challenges we face. More appreciation brings more gratitude. Which in turn brings more success into our lives.

Our wish for 2019 is for you all to succeed in whatever you set your hearts on.  We will be there to support you every step of the way. We’re inspired, we’re excited and we cannot wait to get started,

Yours ‘ready to rock 2019’,

~ Debbie & Team BEXI  xoxo

Membership Packages – Q&A

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  • Will I be locked into a contract or committed to a period?

You are not locked into any contract – you can state when you would like to start or stop your membership. We do however require 2-weeks notice when you wish to stop your members. (Unless you tell us upfront when setting up your membership.)

  • Can I adjust my membership option? Move from Silver to Gold membership or visa-versa?

Yes, of course. You are able to change your membership options based on your needs at the time. This will be amended on your direct debit.

  • What options are available in the school holidays?

There will always be training in the holidays – across running and strength.

  • Which service provider do you use to process your member direct debits?

We use Ezidebit – Australia’s number one non-bank payment provider.

  • Are there any costs in setting up a direct debit?

There is a one-off admin fee of $2.20 per person, plus a monthly transaction fee of $0.99c. These fees will be forwarded to yourself when setting you up via Ezidebit.

  • Are there any costs if payment does not go through?

A failed payment fee of $14.80 will be charged if payment fails. Please try avoiding a failed payment – we hate seeing money go down the drain.

  • How do I get started?

You will be sent an email containing an online e-form to be completed – after which, your payments will be activated on Ezidebit.

 

If you have any additional questions, please contact Debbie Solms on 0400 455 151.

Finding your Tribe

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I recently enjoyed a fascinating interview on ‘How to Be Well’ with Dr Frank Lipman  – US Doctor and functional & integrative medicine expert.  Concluding his interview, Dr Lipman was asked to leave the listeners with one key take-home point. His response – COMMUNITY:

“If your goal is to live a healthy and happy life, make Connection and Community an essential part of your wellness equation.” (Dr Frank Lipman)

Creating community or ‘finding your tribe,’ offers a number of mood-elevating, well-being benefits that include:

  • inspiration and motivation
  • a sense of purpose and meaning
  • the opportunity to improve your life and positively impact others
  • an expanded social circle
  • the potential for personal and professional growth
  • plus many more…

It  involves coming together for shared experiences that may require some effort and commitment. It involves a level of interdependence, in which individuals rely on each other to meet basic needs, plus, consistency. A tribe typically also demands a level of challenge. Real bonds often require vulnerability, perhaps a bit of discomfort, and a genuine need for giving and receiving.

Our BEXI community offers all of the above. We’re a supportive community, who have a vested interest and passion for  ‘supporting women move’.  This could be anything from learning-to-run, to completing a marathon, or even trying a triathlon. These events bring our community together and form very deep and meaningful bonds.

If you are looking for ‘your tribe’ then we would like to invite you to join our wonderful community. You won’t regret it!

Debbie Solms
BEXI Community Member