This week I chat with the inspiring, talented and speedy Jessica Trengove OLY about all things running, especially marathon running, and so much more. Jess grew up in country South Australia where she thrived in the sporty culture and excelled in several sports, including netball. Ultimately, inspired by the likes of Benita Willis and Usain Bolt, Jess chose running (and aren’t we Aussies happy about that)!
We talk about Jess' break through race in Nagoya, Japan (2012) to qualify for the London Olympics, her PB of 2.25.59 set at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon in 2018 (a hurtling pace of 3.27/km), her two Commonwealth Games Bronze medals and, of course, her Olympic Games experiences in London (2012) and Rio (2016). However, like all professional athletes, there have been a few pot holes in Jess' path to success, such as bone stress injuries requiring adaptive cross training and managing her mind set.
Two of my favourite aspects of our discussion were about how marathon running is a tactical event requiring attention to things like getting a good line to your water bottle and gel, especially in a pack, and hearing about Jess’ weekly training schedule. These days, Jess needs to work her training commitments around motherhood; her gorgeous little boy, Billy, was born in November 2019.
We also talk about fuelling, goal setting, Jess’ physiotherapy career, training tips for all runners listening to this podcast and her company, Rundies, that produces underpants designed specifically for runners and sports people.
Apart from hard work and talent, it is clear that Jess’ passion for running and perseverance have played huge parts in her success as a world class marathoner. Being in the company of Jess is like taking a happy pill; she’s positive and vibrant and made me want to go out for a run!
PEOPLE AND LINKS MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE
Jess Trengove's Instagram handle: @jess_tren
Benita Willis’ Instagram handle: @benitawillis_
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