OUR PEOPLE
OUR JOURNEY
In the 2024 year the most Canterbury registered athletes in the last 16 years achieved top 50 NZ rankings in the marathon distance. in All-time performances, we congratulate Cam Avery who has moved into 8th place, and Caden Sheilds into 21st place. The previous best Canterbury Marathoner was current BRMT trustee, Don Greig, now in 23rd place.
From the early days of long distance running in Canterbury, Bill Richards has inspired those who followed him to achieve outstanding results over the half and full marathon distances. It is his legacy that we are nurturing through financial and expert coaching support. Our goal is help develop potential so that they can fulfil their goals, whether on the world stage or at a national level.
This charitable fund held within Athletics Canterbury is devoted to improving the standard of longer distance running, especially marathon running, in our region.
OUR ATHLETES
Canterbury is blessed with superb athletes in many sports. Running has always been a part of this province and whether it is the vast windswept plains or the challenging Port Hills, the motivation to excel seems to be in Cantabrian DNA, creating fast, powerful runners with outstanding endurance.
our stories
Whether its the vibrant club scene or the expanding popularity of Parkrun, groups of dedicated runners can be seen around Christchurch and the trails beyond it. A past rich with extraordinary athletes who dominated the world still inspire those who seek to compete impressively on the international stage. Their own stories of struggle and indomitable courage to excel are worthy of sharing and learning from, hopefully to inspire the next group of top performers.
Canterbury runners with real potential in longer distance running are invited to join us to achieve their goals.
CAMERON AVERY, Vienna Marathon • 5th, 2:10:53 (8th NZ all-time)
Such a turbulent, emotional buildup was climaxed fittingly on the streets of Vienna; a rollercoaster of a race, and, ultimately, the best finish of my career.
While obviously gutting not to hit the Olympic Standard, I knew for that I’d need a perfect storm. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the day; but I’m proud to have clawed my way through the field, eventually finishing within 11 seconds of 2nd place, and tangling with some of the world’s best marathoners. The Olympic dream may go back on hold for awhile, but that’s ok. We have time.
Thank you to everyone who offered support before, during, and after the event—especially my family, training partners, coach, and medical team (who somehow got me to the start line in serviceable shape). You guys are why I do this, and I love you all.
Danke, Vienna.
📷 @vienna_city_marathon @jeniasymonds
CHRISTOPHER DRYDEN, Auckland Half Marathon
Quick trip up to the City of Sails for the @aucklandmarathon half marathon today run with a training mindset and zero taper. The goal was a solid effort with some big km already in the legs, and it turns out I’m in the best shape I’ve ever been and finish with so much left in the tank! Came away with the win, which is one I’ve had my eye on for a while!
Can’t wait to rip into a fast marathon in December. Massive thank you to all the volunteers and supporters out on course the energy was unreal from start to finish
Grateful for my small team who’ve supported me along the journey 🙏
Canterbury runners with real potential in longer distance running are invited to join us to achieve their goals.
THE POWER TO BELIEVE
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THE COURAGE TO ACT
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THE POWER TO BELIEVE . THE COURAGE TO ACT .
So much to learn. Lessons to motivate. Tales to avoid. Wisdom to live by. Helping in some way to enable success is often its own reward. Would you like to share your success story?
Canterbury runners with real potential in longer distance running are invited to join us to achieve their goals. Contact us.