This Rookie Runner Smashed The NYC Marathon, Here Are His Tips For Getting Started

At this time of year, swapping fresh air for a sweaty gym, sounds oh so blissful. And with word spreading on the benefits of ‘runner's high', heading out for a sunrise run seems like the perfect way to squeeze in some pre-work movement. 

Although this sounds great in theory, truth be told that many women feel unsafe running in the dark due to circling stories and previous experiences. 

Not naturally a runner, 25-year-old business owner Connor Sahely used this fear withheld by many of his close friends as motivation to start a safe community in Frankston focused on encouraging locals of all genders to come together and tick off their morning excersise together. 

Despite his pride in the collective that Olivers Hill Run Club has become, Connor never saw it leading him to the Big Apple, to run the NYC Marathon with New Balance. This running rookie and his recent adventure of a lifetime,  proof that a desire for change and a bit of initiative can take you a long way. 

We were lucky enough to catch Conor for a post-marathon catch-up, to learn a little more about his journey with running, his tips for staying motivated and how helping others to hit the pavement has changed his everyday 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 have always been up for a physical challenge and anything sports related. In saying this, running is something I only added in to my routine 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 source your motivation? 

Running is such a simple and accessible way to push yourself alongside great people. Four days a week I get to meet my friends at Olivers Hill, share laughs, and listen to stories all whilst getting the endorphins going. The best part is it is a form of free therapy and I never end a run on a low or with any regrets. 

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 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 5:15 am and runs Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. 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. Trust me when I say it’s a solid 45-minute workout. 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 dark early mornings. The topic of sexual assault and violence is one that unfortunately has been the dark realities for many of the great females in my life. Despite being so strong, brave, and capable, these women would often express how they don’t feel safe running before sunrise due to past experiences. Because of this, I decided to create a club that would instigate a secure environment that encouraged all people, no matter their gender, 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 simply is nothing as awesome as the satisfaction and self-respect you gain after ticking off a great run.

What is your go-to running attire? (highlight the shoe) 

My New Balance 1080’s are without a doubt the most durable and reliable pair of shoes I’ve ever owned and I can confidently say I think 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? Friends? 

If I am 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 it comes to how I handle the external challenges life throws at me. I am a firm believer however 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 these 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 it the entire 4 hours. Once I hit about 36km, I remember feeling very ready to hit the finish line, I think the crazy crowd had started to feel normal, and all I wanted was to get to the end. At the last 100 metres, I saw my two mates Polly and Mitch screaming from the crowd, I got to give them a big 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 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.