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Canberra Marathon Festival – 10 April 2022

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Join us for a weekend of fun, adventure and fulfilling goals

The 2022 Canberra Times Marathon Festival is on! Offering something for everyone – from 2km kids run, to half-marathon or marathon-distance for the experienced runners. Set yourself a goal and come join us as we explore the beautiful surrounds of our capital city – including Lake Burley Griffin, the Parliamentary Triangle, the War Memorial and so much more.  

About our programs

We understand the pressures of life and trying to fit everything in (family, work, sport, friends, etc.) – so our programs are purposely built to accommodate your busy schedules. Each  program focuses on building fitness, speed and endurance. We also include a structured strength training element to correct muscle imbalances, increase mobility, stabilize joints and more. 

Program
Duration
Starts
Marathon program 16 weeks Mon 20 Dec 2021
Half-marathon program 12 weeks Tue 18 Jan 2022
10km program 08 weeks Tue 15 Feb 2022

If you’re thinking of stepping up to the marathon distance – read our ‘Ready for a Marathon’ blog. 

What is included?
  • Structured training program
  • 3 x weekly group training sessions 
  • 2 x weekly strength training sessions
  • Online training programs via Training Peaks
  • Nutrition and recovery guidance
  • Mental skills and race strategies
  • Event weekend logistics
  • Membership of a supportive, like-minded Community
What is excluded?
Your Investment
The weekend is more than just running – there is something for the entire family!

  • Escape for hours with the kids at Questacon, the National Zoo & Aquarium, the Australian War Memorial, and so much more! 
  • Bring your hubbies & kids and let them have fun at one of Australia’s premier mountain biking trails – Stromlo Forest Park. Purchase a shuttle bus pass in advance so that they can spend hours of fun on the downhills. Highly recommend! 
  • The weekend will also include the burgeoning coffee scene, eclectic cafes and trendy restaurants/bars. 

 

 

Canberra 2014

Canberra 2015

Canberra 2016

Canberra 2017

Canberra 2018

 
 

Canberra 2018

 

Blackmores Sydney Running Festival 2021

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Join us as we train for one of the world’s most scenic running events. Cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge and finish at the iconic Sydney Opera House. 

The Blackmores Sydney Running Festival offers something for everyone – from beginners to experienced runners. Make your dreams come true in 2021! Set yourself a goal and come train with us as we prepare for this year’s 20th Runiversary.

About our programs

We have planned 3 x fun programs aimed at supporting runners who are looking to achieve a 10km goal; attempt their first half-marathon; or to fulfil a bucket-list dream of running a marathon. 

Program
Duration
Starts
Marathon program 16 weeks Mon 31 May 2021
Half-marathon program 12 weeks Mon 28 June 2021
10km program 08 weeks Mon 26 July 2021

Our training programs are based on the three secrets to success – knowledge, nutrition and consistency in training.  We train in structured cycles – focusing on building cardio fitness, strength, speed and endurance. To further support your training, we have partnered with Chocolate Box Training to provide structured strength & conditioning training to strengthen supporting muscles, correct muscle imbalances, increase mobility, correct posture, stabilize joints and much more.

Dream big, work hard, make it happen. 

What is included?
  • Group training sessions (face-to-face)
  • Structure strength & conditioning training
  • Online training programs via Training Peaks
  • Nutrition and recovery 
  • Mental skills and strategies
  • Analysis and feedback on training data
  • Event day logistics
  • Membership of a supportive, like-minded Community
What is excluded?
About our Coaches

Our qualified coaches bring a vast level of experience in the sport of running – between them, they have completed ultra-marathons, marathons, triathlons, adventure races and much more.   

Your Investment

Cultivate the courage to take the first step, and the discipline to take the next one.

Snowy Mountains Retreat: 19-21 Feb 2021

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Join us for our first BEXI retreat of 2021 in the stunning Snowy Mountains – the outdoor adventure playground for the summer.

We are super-excited to be hosting our first ever retreat in the Snowy Mountains, which offers world-class trails for walking, running, mountain biking, road cycling, swimming and horse riding. The weekend also coincides with one of the most scenic trail runs in Australia.

Activities

Whatever takes your fancy – the Snowies has the playground to meet your needs:

Trail Running – Join our BEXI trail running team and take part in the Snowies Trail Run Festival – choose from 5km to 50k Ultra. There is also an event for the kids.
Hiking – Explore the Snowies from the ground up with our abundance of spectacular bush walks or challenge yourself to summiting Mount Kosciuszko.
Road Cycling – The quality of road surfaces and minimal summer time traffic, epic climbs and tranquillity of the Kosciuszko National Park, make road riding breathtaking.
Mountain Biking – Get in gear and ride through some of Australia’s most spectacular landscapes – from high plains, alpine valleys, forest paths and Gravity Parks.
Horse Riding – Ride the land of the mountain horsemen, brumbies, wildflowers and alpine wilderness – you can even follow in the footsteps of the Man from Snowy River.
Food & Drink – If you’re looking to kick back and relax – take in the burgeoning food scene that celebrates local producers and seasonal ingredients.
Accommodation

Our 2-night retreat is located at the stunning Yalara Alpine Ski Lodge in the Perisher Valley. Yalara has accommodation for up to 24 people in nine rooms spread across two levels. Accommodation costs are kept to a minimum as guests do their own cooking in a communal kitchen. Blankets are provided in the bedrooms, however guests must bring their own sheets (or sleeping bags) and towels. Five rooms have their own en-suite bathrooms, while the other rooms share bathrooms.

Meals

All meals will be the responsibly of those guests staying.  The lodge has a large communal kitchen with stoves, ovens, microwaves and utensils. Closer to the time, we will explore the option of planning group dinners on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Itinerary
Day 1: Friday

2.00pm – 4.00pm – Check in

5.00pm-6.00pm – Explore local area

7.00pm – Group Dinner
Day 2: Saturday

7.00am – 8.30am – Breakfast

9.00am – 5.00pm – Outdoor Activity (your choice)

6.00pm – Group Dinner
Day 3: Sunday

5.00am – 8.30am – Early Breakfast (Trail Runners)

6.00am – 2.00pm – Snowies Trail Run Festival

9.00am – 2.00pm – Outdoor Activity (your choice)

4.00pm – Goodbyes and Check-out
What is cost?
  • Adults – $150 each
  • Children – $90 each
  • Food and outdoor activities are NOT included
How to book?

It is encouraged that you book your accommodation as soon as possible. Once we have allocated all the rooms, we will then be able to plan outdoor activities and group meals. To book please email Debbie Solms or contact her on 0400455151.

Lake Macquarie Adventure Race – 13 Feb 2021

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If you’re looking for next challenge? Something that’s exhilarating, fun and action-packed?  Come join us as we train for the Maximum Adventure Race in Lake Macquarie on Sat 13 Feb 2021

This event is inclusive of everyone! Designed for teams of two, each team takes on three core disciplines several times during the event – mountain biking, trail training and kayaking. It’s fun, it’s exhilarating and action-packed… at an outdoors scenic location.

Teams can choose between the following courses:

  • Novice Course:  5-15km mountain biking; 3-5km trail running and 1-2km kayaking
  • Classic Course:  15-25km mountain biking; 5-10km trail running and 2-4km kayaking
About our Training Program

To support our BEXI members, we are planning a 5-week training program to train for the various disciplines for this adventure race. Our comprehensive 6-week training program starts on Mon 04 Jan 2021 and will get members fit, strong and ready to embrace this action-packed event. There will be a combination of group training and self-training sessions.

Below is a draft outline of our training program:

Who is this program for?
  • If you’re looking for your next challenge
  • If you’re looking for an event that offers a sense of fun and adventure
  • If you’re looking to attempt a multi-disciplined event
  • If you’re keen to train with friends and have fun getting fit
What is included?
  • 6-week training program
  • Training across running, cycling and kayaking
  • 2 x Kayak training sessions
  • Mental skills and strategies for multi-disciplined events
  • Race nutrition and recovery
  • Motivational support
  • Membership of a supportive, like-minded Community
What is excluded?
What is cost?
  • $50/week (total $300)
  • Mon 04 Jan to Sat 13 Feb 2021 (6-weeks)

 

Jump-into-Summer ’20 – Week 1

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Ready… steady… Jump-into-Summer ’20! 

Our Jump-into-Summer ’20 challenge is go. Seven weeks of  fresh air, fitness and all-round fun. Ensuring you feel fit and fabulous for summer.

How does it work?
  • Weekly run, cycle, strength training – progressing each week (Week 1 focuses on benchmark testing)
  • Attend as many sessions in the week – the more, the better! 
  • Each session attracts points (see below)
  • You will be issued with a ‘Score Card’ so that you can tally your points each week
  • 1 x Wellbeing challenge will be issued each week
  • 4 x Wildcard challenges will be issued
  • 3 x Super-session challenges will be issued
  • The more you do – the more points you will attract
  • Prizes will be awarded at end of challenge
Week 1
  • Exercise Challenge – attend as many group training sessions as possible from our weekly timetable below:
  • Wellbeing Challenge – Enjoy a cup of coffee/tea/kombucha on your own, in peace (20mins)
  • Wildcard Challenge – Share 1 random fact about yourself to team (within your private FB groups – Race-FIT, Tri-FIT, Walk-to-Run)
  • Super-Session Challenge – Weeks 2, 4 & 6
  • Consistency Challenge – aim to attend 3+ sessions per week (that’s how you create a habit!)
Point Scoring
  • Run/Walk/Cycle – 5 points
  • Strength Bootcamp – 10 points
  • Wildcard Challenge – 10 points
  • Super-Session Challenge – 20 points
  • Wellbeing Challenge – 20 points
  • Consistency Challenge – 10 points
  • Yoga Session – 10 points
Prizes
  • Most Improved
  • Most Attended Sessions
  • Special Coaches Award
  • Overall 2020 Winner
  • Save-the-date for prizing-giving/end of challenge BBQ – Sat 28 Nov 2020

 

To win, you have to stay in the game!  

~Jump-into-Summer – Week 2
~Jump-into-Summer – Week 3

 

 

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.

  

 

Highway-19 Virtual Challenge

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We’re super-excited to launch our newest virtual challenge:

HIGHWAY-19

In response to COVID-19, we decided to create a virtual challenge that would keep our community fit, motivated, happy and healthy during this uncertain period.

 

About HIGHWAY-19

Starting Weds 1 April 2020, join us as we run, walk, cycle, swim, hop, skip and jump our way around Australia*. Our goal is to circumnavigate the full distance around Australia on HIGHWAY-19 – a whopping distance of 14,500km.

(*Following government guidelines in response to COVID-19.)

Each week we will set a target goal – i.e. travel from Sydney to Brisbane (920km). We will all jump in with the aim of completing the target distance – doing whatever activity we prefer. At the end of each week, we will submit our weekly mileage to our ‘Virtual Challenge Navigator‘, who will plot the distance covered on our virtual map.

Our challenge is to circumnavigate Australia within 2-months – April and May 2020. Some weeks will be shorter and easier, other weeks will be longer and harder.  But one thing is for sure – our BEXI community loves a challenge!

 

Bonus Kilometers

Bonus km’s will be awarded as follows:

  • Completing virtual home workouts – 30mins = 5km | 45mins = 10km | 60mins = 15km
  • Swim distances will be multiplied by 10 (i.e. 1km swim = 10km)
  • Junior distances will be multiplied on a tiered scaling – 5-10yrs x 4 | 11-15yrs x 3 | 16-20yrs x 2
  • Distances will be doubled for those who ‘lead’ a session (i.e. mark a trail run; plan a solo run session; plan an indoor training session; etc.)
  • Wildcard challenges will randomly be issued throughout the challenge – these will attract vast bonus km’s
  • Spot prizes will be allocated along the way

 

What is the cost?

FREE! GRATIS! GRATUITE!

We want to support our BEXI community, their family and friends.

What happens at the finish?

Should we achieve our goal, all participants will receive a finishers medal or apparel*. (This will incur a small charge.)

How to register?

Small acts, when multiplied by many people, can transform the world.

>> Week 1: Sydney to Brisbane (917km)

Coastal Classic – 5 Sept 2020

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Listed as one of Australia’s ‘must-do’ trail runs – the Coastal Classic is a 30km trail run through the Royal National Park (south of Sydney). 

As the world’s second oldest national park (after Yellowstone in USA), the Coastal Classic is a trail run along the coast track from Otford to Bundeena. Offering 30km of trails, beaches, sand and rainforest – this race has a bit of everything, with amazing views to top it off!

The event takes place on Sat 5th September 2020 – with entries opening on Weds 8th April 2020 (9am). The event sells out shortly after opening, so be sure to be online when registration opens.

About our  program

Our 14-week training program kicks off on 6 June 2020. It is aimed at supporting athletes who are looking to attempt a trail running challenge (30km).

Each week we focus on three targeted group training runs – strength, speed and endurance. In addition, the program also includes a strength & mobility session that focuses on functional conditioning to increase muscle strength, mobility, power and endurance.

Our Saturday endurance runs take place on various local trail courses – starting at 30mins and building to 180mins.

 

By far the most valuable part of our program is training with a group of like-minded runners, who are committed, motivated and will push you to scale greater heights.

 

Training starts on Sat 6 June 2020 and is open 12 x participants.

* Program subject to change

What are the pre-requisites?
  • Runners who are consistently running 5-10km
  • Runners looking to attempt their first trail run or already participate in some trail running
  • Runners who are in good health and injury-free
What Gear do I need?

Having the right gear to take on a remote trail run is very important in order to ensure you can enjoy your run, stay safe and get the most out of training.  The most important pieces of kit you need to get started are your trail shoes and a good hydration pack.  Our coaches will guide you in terms of which gear your need and where to purchase it.

What is included in the program?

Figure Eight Pools

  • 14-week online training program
  • 4-weekly group coached training sessions (see above)
  • Race nutrition and recovery – (in collaboration with Mad on Nutrition)
  • Mental skills and strategies
  • Race strategy, tactics and guidance
  • Analysis and feedback on training data
  • Race day logistics
  • Motivational support
  • Access to private online forum
  • Membership of a supportive, like-minded Community
  • FREE BEXI Buff
What is excluded?
About our Coaches

Our qualified coaches bring a vast level of experience in the sport of endurance running, trail running and strength & conditioning. Between them, they have completed ultra-trail marathons, ultra-marathons, marathons, triathlons, adventure races and much more.

Your Investment
  • $60 p/week across 14-weeks – (6 June 2020 – 5 Sept 2020)
  • Unlimited weekly group training sessions (see above)
  • Program open to 14 x participants*
  • (*Program subject to numbers)

SMH Half-Marathon – Sun 17 May 2020

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Join us for a beautiful Sunday morning run as we take part in one of Australia’s largest running events – the SMH Half Marathon on Sun 17 May 2020. Bring a friend and take in the sights of Sydney – incl. Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Royal Botanic Gardens and much more.

The event is inclusive for everyone! Bring your buddy and enter the relay distance – 11km for 1st runner and 10km for 2nd runner. By inviting a friend to train with you, not only will you have someone to motivate you – you’ll also have someone to push you harder, hold you accountable and… importantly, have a laugh throughout your 12-week journey.

About our Program

Our 12-week training program starts on Sat 29 Feb 2020 and focuses on supporting those who are training for the relay or the half-marathon events.  We train together as a team – as this offers greater team camaraderie and higher levels of motivation. Our comprehensive training program is structured around face-to-face coached sessions – ensuring you are supported every step of the way and progress injury free.

Run training consists of 3 x weekly group training sessions, which take place on the Northern Beaches. Our long runs rotate among various locations – which keeps things fresh and interesting.

* BONUS! When you sign up for our SMH Half-Marathon program, you are invited to join our Strength-FIT training for the duration of the training program.
Who is this program for?
  • You want to experience the atmosphere and take part in the relay
  • You want to try a half-marathon for the first time
  • You want to improve your previous half-marathon
  • You want to train with friends and have fun getting fit
What is included?
  • 12-week online training program (with Training Peaks)
  • 35-plus x coached sessions
  • Access to weekly Strength-FIT training*
  • Mental skills and strategies
  • Race nutrition and recovery
  • Motivational support
  • Access to private online forum
  • Membership of a supportive, like-minded Community
  • Glass of bubbles at the finish!
What is excluded?
Program Prerequisites

We are committed to supporting and encouraging all who participate in our programs, whilst keeping the health and safety of our members a priority. Please view our program prerequisites for a guideline of our baseline requirements, or speak to Debbie Solms about your journey.

About our Coaches

Our qualified coaches bring a vast level of experience in the sport of endurance running and strength & conditioning. Between them, they have completed ultra-marathons, marathons, half-marathons, trail marathons and much more.

Your Investment Options
  • Gold Membership – $55/week across 12-weeks (29 Feb to 17 May 2020)
  • Access to all the above coached sessions
  • Program based on 12 x participants (subject to numbers)

 

SMH Half-Marathon 2019

 

Tri the Gong – Sun 19 April 2020

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The perfect event for those looking to attempt their first triathlon. The Wollongong Triathlon offers races for all ages and abilities — and it is only a 2hr-drive from Sydney (perfect for a day trip).

Very much a festival of fun and fitness  – this event encourages everyone to have a go (incl. spouse and kids). Take part in the excitement, exhilaration and sense of accomplishment that comes with participating in the beautiful sport of triathlon. It is so much fun!

Choose from the Sprint & Standard distances; and get the kids to join the Miniman Aquathon, Try-a-Tri or Super-Sprint. There is something for everyone!

 About our Program

Our 7-week program kicks off on Sat 29 Feb 2020 and focuses on training for the Sprint & Standard-distance events:

  • Sprint – 750m swim | 20km bike | 5km run – for those who are new to triathlon, or who like the cheeky, short ‘n’ sharp distance
  • Standard – 1.5km swim | 40km bike | 10km run – for those who have already done a Sprint and would like to progress to the next level

We train together as a team – as this offers greater team camaraderie (our BEXI strength) and higher levels of motivation. Our comprehensive training program is structured around face-to-face coached sessions – ensuring you are supported every step of the way and progress injury free.

Who is this program for?

  • You want an exciting new challenge
  • You want to challenge yourself to a longer distance
  • You want to get stronger, faster and more confident
  • You want to train with an awesome supportive team

What is included?

  • 7-week online training program (using Training Peaks)
  • 30-plus x coached sessions
  • Simulation training session
  • Mental skills and strategies
  • Race nutrition and recovery
  • Motivational support
  • Access to private online forum
  • Membership of a supportive, like-minded Community

The above program is provisional and subject to change.

What is excluded?

  • Sunday ocean swim training – we encourage you to join our swim partners, Shelly Swim Club, who will support your open water swimming
  • Race entry fee
  • BEXI Tri-Suit (optional) – orders must be placed by Fri 6 March 2020

Program Prerequisites

We are committed to supporting and encouraging all who participate in our programs, whilst keeping the health and safety of our members a priority. Please view our program prerequisites for a guideline of our baseline requirements, or speak to Debbie Solms about your journey.

About our Coaches

Our coaches are qualified across the sport of triathlon – swim, bike and run. Each coach has substantial experience in competing in triathlons (from Sprint to Ironman distances) – as well as participating at the ITU Age-Group World Championships.

Your Investment

  • Platinum Membership – $60p/week across 7-weeks (29 Feb to 19 Apr 2020)
  • Access to all the above coached sessions
  • Program based on 12 x participants (subject to numbers)