At this time of year, swapping a sweaty gym for the open air sounds like bliss. And with word spreading of the elusive ‘runner's high', heading out for a sunrise trot is the perfect way to squeeze in some pre-work movement and max those endorphins.
Despite Sydney becoming the seventh world major in the Abbott World Marathon Majors series and the rise in the number of Aussies jumping on the running bandwagon, unfortunately for many local women, running alone as the sun hits the horizon is simply out of the question.
With safety a huge concern of many of his close friends, 25-year-old business owner Connor Sahely was determined to start his own community running group in Frankston. Not naturally a runner, he was keen to encourage locals of all genders and abilities to come together and kick off their morning exercise together.
Undoubtedly proud of what Olivers Hill Run Club has become, Connor never saw it leading to the Big Apple, where he just smashed the NYC Marathon with New Balance. This running rookie's adventure of a lifetime along with the 15 other everyday runners from ANZ who have been sent by New Balance to run the New York and London marathons in the past two years, proof that a desire to change and a bit of initiative can take you a long way.
We caught Conor post-marathon to learn a little more about his journey into running, his tips for staying motivated, and how helping others to hit the pavement has changed his life for the better.
Before we dive into all things NYC, can you tell us a bit about yourself and why you got into running?
In short, I’m an active 25-year-old business owner working in the sports recovery and injury management field. From a young age, I've always been up for a physical challenge and anything sports-related. Saying that, running is something I only took up about 12 months ago. This decision was based on a desire to provide Frankston with a positive and safe community outlet.
Why is running special to you and where do you find your motivation?
Aside from being a free form of therapy, running is a simple and accessible way to push myself alongside great people. Four days a week I get to meet my friends at Olivers Hill, share laughs, and listen to stories, all while getting the endorphins going.
When did you first decide you wanted to run the NYC marathon, and why?
Running a world major was never something I had on my cards, mainly because the training seemed unattainable for my lifestyle. However, when New Balance approached me with the opportunity, I researched the race and instantly became obsessed with what an incredible experience it would be.
Before anything was confirmed, I wrote on my calendar the NYC marathon date and manifested every single day by telling my people how badly I wanted it, and playing Frank Sinatra's New York New York every morning on my way to work.
Tell us about Olivers Hill Run Club. What it is, why did you start it and where are you today?
The run club kicks off at 5:15am Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Each run starts at the base of a 600-metre hill, and from there the crew repeats runs up and down at their own pace. More than a way for locals to come and get a sweat on, the club was created to give people a safe environment to exercise in the early mornings.
The topic of sexual assault and violence has unfortunately been the dark reality for many of the great females in my life. Despite being strong, brave, and capable, these women would often express how they don’t feel safe running before sunrise. Because of these shared experiences, I decided to create a secure space that encourages all people—no matter their gender or running ability—to come together and get in their morning movement, as one big supportive crew.
Ok, runner’s high, is it a legit thing?
Without a doubt. I’m not sure anything could ever compare to the runners high I experienced in the NYC marathon. There's simply nothing as awesome as the satisfaction and self-respect you gain after ticking off a great run.
What's your go-to running attire?
My New Balance 1080’s are without a doubt the most durable and reliable pair of shoes I’ve ever owned. I can confidently say these bad boys will be in my possession for many years to come. Without getting too technical, their foam base is amazing on my joints and allows me to have great foot control.
Any pre or post-run rituals? Music? Podcasts? Mates?
If I'm honest, I like to ditch the headphones and stay completely in my thoughts. For me, that’s the beautiful challenge running presents. It’s a chance for me to find rhythm and comfort during something difficult, which has been amazing when I have to handle the external challenges life throws at me. That being said, I'm a firm believer that running is always better with mates. Or in my case, my poor injured girlfriend riding behind me on her bike.
If you could describe the NYC Marathon in 5 words, what would they be?
Life-changing, incredible, and wholeheartedly fulfilling.
Most importantly, how good did it feel to run across that finish line? What was going through your head?
Having never participated in an event like this before, I wasn’t there to run a PB or break a course record, my goal was simply to smile and high-five as many spectators as possible. I sat in a comfortable groove at about a 5:50 pace per km and ran for the entire 4 hours.
Once I hit about 36km, I remember feeling very ready to hit the finish line. At the last 100 metres, I saw my two mates Polly and Mitch screaming from the crowd, so I gave them a big air fist bump and crossed the finish line smiling. It was an unreal moment and a feeling that I hope everyone gets to experience at least once in their lifetime.
For more on Connor’s NYC marathon experience and running journey, check out his race week vlog here. And to keep up to date with all things Connor and Olivers Hill Run Club, chuck them a follow on Instagram here.
Inspired to give a morning run a go? Get prepped to hit the pavement with New Balance and their full running range here. All the kit you need to run your way, taking you from run club to race day.
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Image Credit: New Balance, Tempo Journal.