RD Run Coach Team Gears Up for the Queenstown Half Marathon – 15 November

On Saturday 15 November, up to fourteen dedicated RD Run Coach athletes will swap Australian roads for the spectacular trails of New Zealand, taking on the Queenstown Half Marathon. Months of consistent training, early mornings, and long runs have brought this crew to the start line ready to soak up the views—and the challenge.

Congratulations to Ann, Benita, Benita, Tessa, Emma, Emma, Jane, Rita, Laura, Sarah, Natalie, Carolyn, Celesti, and myself for the commitment it’s taken to reach this point. Preparing for a destination race is never just about kilometres on the watch or segments on Strava. It’s about carving time from busy lives, balancing work, family and training, and staying motivated when the alarm rings - particularly when run starts at 5:45am. Each of you has shown grit and patience—two qualities that matter just as much as fitness on race day.

Queenstown’s course is famous for its alpine scenery: sparkling Lake Wakatipu, crisp mountain air, and a mix of sealed road and packed trails. It’s not just a run; it’s an experience. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply taking in every vista, remember to look up and enjoy the moment.

As coach, I’m proud of how far everyone has come. The hard work is done. Now it’s about trusting your training, pacing smartly, and celebrating each step. Good luck team—may the cool NZ air lift your stride, the cheering crowds fuel your finish, and the post-race stories be as memorable as the miles themselves. Queenstown awaits, and you’ve earned every breathtaking kilometre.