Celebrating its 37th year, the Melbourne Marathon held on October 18 is an exciting and motivating event for Melbourne’s running community.
Lace up your runners and get training so you can be a part of an event that entices people to Melbourne from all over Australia. There are distances to suit runners of all fitness levels, with not only full and half marathon events but also 10km, 5.7km and 3km events.
Here at the hotel we are strong advocates of healthy and active lifestyles. In addition to many guests coming into Melbourne for the event, many of our staff are gearing up as well.
We sat down with our Corporate Business Development Manager and resident runner Rebecca Fowlds to find out what she loves about the Melbourne Marathon.
What do you find to be the most rewarding thing about running and running long distances?
RF: Long distance running is more challenging. For me the most rewarding thing is personal motivation, plus I love the challenge. I enjoy participating in various events, meeting new and different kinds of people and also listening to their stories about what makes them run.
Also, I run with my running groups. Currently I am part of Melbourne Marathon ASICS training group, which is always good fun too.
Running a marathon takes a long time, so what do you think about as you run?
RF: It’s dependent on the day – sometimes I think about work, my family from the United Kingdom or the beautiful scenery in Melbourne that I am running through. But sometimes I don’t think about anything as I am just enjoying the run and talking to other runners.
What are your favourite three locations to run from, starting from InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto?
RF: Firstly, I love running along the Yarra River and down St. Kilda Road as the scenery is so beautiful along there. My next pick would be Albert Park; in fact I do it every Saturday with Park Run which is a free weekly 5KM timed event which is held worldwide. Also, following the jogging map available from the concierge at InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto is always great fun too.
Where is the best place for spectators to enjoy the marathon from?
RF: The best place for spectators to enjoy the marathon from is at the top of Albert Park, on Fitzroy Street, and the MCG would be the best location for the finish line.
Where would you celebrate post event and what would the celebration include?
RF: As the race finishes at the MCG, the post event celebration will be at Richmond depending on the time of the day. One of my favourite places to chill after the race is Top Paddock Café and I also like to go to St. Kilda to have a few beers by the seaside view.
It’s more fun to celebrate with runners and the friends and family that keep you motivated and enjoy these moments with.
Coming to Melbourne for the big event? Recover in style at InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto. Try our Weekend Special package which includes overnight accommodation, breakfast buffet for two at Alluvial Restaurant and a late (and well deserved) 4pm checkout.
