MATT LANCASHIRE Ray White Collective QLD
Ray White Collective selling principal Matt Lancashire recently ran a gruelling marathon in the icy cold temperatures of Alaska.
What was involved in running a marathon in Alaska?
Running a marathon in Alaska was a challenge due to many unknown factors. The extreme cold(-5 ° C) and icy terrain were difficult to prepare for, as I had never run in such conditions before. Buying the right gear was essential. Training was the most important part, but arriving a few days early helped familiarise us with the terrain. Despite all the preparation, it was tough because it was something completely new.
How did you get into it?
My friend Lachlan Stuart, who has completed extreme endurance challenges before, told me about his plan to run 58 marathons in 58 days across all 50 US states and Australia. When I asked where he would start, he said Alaska on January 22. Without hesitation, I booked my flight.
Lachlan has now finished all 58 marathons and he raised more than $ 100,000 for Brisbane-based Mental Awareness Foundation. Ray White Collective and Ray White Queensland were proud sponsors.
What did your training block look like?
The training block was intense and lasted 14 weeks. I ran between 40 and 100km per week, balancing short, fast runs; interval training, and long runs. I also incorporated pilates and functional strength training to build overall endurance.
Recovery was just as important- massages, stretching, saunas, and ice baths helped manage fatigue and prevent injuries.
How did the race go?
It was one of the hardest things I’ ve ever done. The terrain was unexpectedly difficult as I had only trained on roads. The freezing temperature was manageable, but the 30km / h winds made it feel even colder. We faced ice, snow, wind, and rain, making conditions brutal. At the 16km mark, I rolled my ankle severely, forcing me to change my running style and complete the remaining 26km on my heel. This led to hip flexor and knee pain, but despite the setbacks, finishing the marathon was an incredibly rewarding experience.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to run a marathon?
Preparation is everything. Many people try to go from little to no running to a marathon, which can be very difficult. If you’ re a beginner, I recommend following a 20-week training plan, while more experienced runners can prepare in 12-14 weeks. Nutrition and hydration are crucial- calorie intake should increase, and hydration must be consistent. Running a marathon is tough, but crossing the finish line is an incredible feeling that makes all the effort worthwhile.
JOSH HARRIS RWC Noosa and Sunshine Coast QLD
RWC Noosa and Sunshine Coast agent Josh Harris had a last-minute call up to participate in New Zealand’ s
Kathmandu Coast to Coast race this year, filling in for a team in the kayak portion of the race, giving him just 30 days to get race ready. But it’ s not his first time competing in the multisport event.
What is involved in the Coast to Coast?
The multisport event involves a two-day, 243km bike, run, and kayak race from Kumara Beach on the South Island to New Brighton Beach in
Christchurch on the South Island.
You can compete in the Coast to Coast as an individual or as a team. This year was the first time I’ ve done it as a team as I’ ve always completed it individually.
How did you get into it?
I was introduced to the sport back in 2009 where I crewed for a mate and just loved it! I had a background in Ironmans and I competed in my first individual Coast to Coast race in 2011, as well as completing individual races in 2014 and 2015, and winning the tandem race with a mate, Dave Slater, in 2020. I hadn’ t planned on competing this year, but I was about to start training for the 2026 Coast to Coast.
What does your training look like?
Training is around 20 hours a week and will get up towards 30 hours throughout the year. I work through the day and then look to train late in the afternoon and evenings.
How did you do in the competitions?
Throughout my racing days I have won multiple different races through Ironman and multisport. My biggest claim to fame is beating All Blacks rugby great Richie McCaw and Rob Nichol to win the Coast to Coast tandem race in 2020. Nowadays, I just love doing it and trying to push myself as hard as I can.
Any tips for people who might want to try it out?
Anyone wanting to get involved or start in the sport, the best way is to get involved is via crewing or supporting and you just fall in love with the sport. It’ s a great sport where the fastest and the slowest all race together and we all support each other.
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