Following on from our interview with Aaron we spoke with Claudia, a lawyer from Sydney's Northern Beaches, who is looking to break the 3:30:00 mark in this years Sydney Marathon. 

Running since she was a kid, Claudia has moved from the UK countryside and finds herself tackling (potentially) the next major marathon through the bustling streets of Sydney. Be sure to get around Claudia in the lead up to the race! 

Firstly, introduce yourself; who you are, what you do and who you run with/for?

Hi I am Claudia Matthews, I am a lawyer from Avalon in Sydney’s Northern Beaches. I primarily run solo, but have started running with Furies occasionally. 

How long have you been running and how/when did you get your start? 

I have been running since a little kid. I grew up in the UK in the countryside which is where I  learnt to run with my dad and sister. My Dad would take my sister and I on runs through the woods in the South Downs National Park.  

What is your goal for the 2024 Sydney Marathon? 

To run it in our around 3 hrs 30 mins. I ran last year and did it very inconsistently in pace (as my watch died…) so this year aiming for a bit more consistency.

What has been your favourite running route/s during your training for the Sydney Marathon (Strava links would be awesome if you don’t mind)? 

I love running around Narabeen lagoon it’s a nice big flat loop!

When I am not traingin for marathon and I run trails my fave is Cape Solander to Cronulla, the track is so varied, there is a part where it feels like you are running across the moon the rock formation is so cool!

What shoes have you used throughout your training and what are you going to be racing in on the day? 

I have been training in hokka cliftons (I was injured at the start of my training and these have been great recovery shoes). On race day I will be running in New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite V4, these feel a lots faster than the Clifton’s so I love the switch.

What would be your dream location to run a Marathon? 

Somewhere in the South Downs, of the UK where I grew up during the bluebell flowers season. The flowers look like a carpet of blue would a stunning backdrop!! However, would be very hilly (yucky!)

Any words of wisdom for anyone considering having a crack at a marathon? 

I really believe anyone can do it, you just have to back yourself, recognise it will be tough, and enjoy the putting the work in. You always feel so good after you push through a challenge