Changing Perspective with Kellie Emmerson
It’s an activity often met with disbelief, but for ultra-runner Kellie Emmerson, distances like 100kms have become her way to chill out. But how does someone, who completed her first fun run only seven years ago, find herself at the front of the field, winning events, and clinching the Australian long distance trail running title?
Kellie’s tally sheet reads like this – 50km Victorian Trail Champion 2012 – 2014,
Australian Trail Champion 2014, Australian long distance Trail Champion 2015, 1st Surf Coast Century 2014-2015, as well as setting new course record (2014), 1st Buffalo Stampede 42km (2016).
We caught up with Kellie to check in on how her training has been going, where it all began, and what she’s looking forward to this year.
Q) You haven’t been running competitively for that long, but you’re the current Australian long distance champ….Were you a recreational runner before you started entering events?
I was a recreational runner for a short time before I jumped to ultras. I played netball and basketball at school, but was never really interested in Cross Country. I was an avid gym goer throughout Uni, and then started to do a few fun runs. They soon turned to half and full marathons, then OXFAM trail walker. After conquering 100km, my perspective changed forever. I loved the beauty of the trails and the challenge of the distance, and even more importantly, the community.
Q) What made you choose long distance and ultras as your main focus? And what’s your favourite distance?
Ultra distance racing came pretty naturally to me. That sounds kind of weird, but I am a ridiculously busy person, and I guess ultra distance running was a way for me to chill out for a while – my form of meditation. My favourite distance to race is probably 50km. But I tend to fair well at the longer stuff so like to give that a go occasionally. I don’t often do 50km training runs – my long run would tend to be around the 30km mark.
Q) It must take incredible mental strength and stamina to firstly run these distances let alone win events. What’s your secret?
Personally I think I was born with some weird gene that made me perfect for this sport! My Dad is very mentally strong and I think I take after him in many respects – determination is key. My game plan is generally to just run my own race, try not to worry about anyone else, and never give up.
Q) Are you very strict and disciplined with training, or do you approach it more how you’re feeling on the day?
I don’t have a coach and I don’t stick to a strict training plan, though I put in probably 12-14 hours training each week – this includes running, strength training, hiking and yoga.
I work full time, coach a running group 3 times per week, teach body pump twice a week, help to run a small business and am studying my Masters. I have a good idea of what needs to be done, but need to take each day as it comes depending on a range of factors including how tired I am, how sore I am, and whether I have people to train with.
Q) Everybody has a limit – have there been any points where you’ve thought you just can’t go on? How do you push on when the going gets tough?
I don’t really know how to quit. That language doesn’t really exist in my vocabulary. Sure, you have tough times out there, but you just need to remind yourself to keep putting one foot in front of the other- relentless forward motion. Once you’ve felt the feeling of crossing a finish line and achieving something huge like that, it becomes addictive and you want to feel it again.
Q) Have you had funny reactions to your running of 100kms?
Always, it is a constant discussion point for non-runners or work colleagues. The usual response is “but why would you run when you could drive there?!”
Q) What would be your all-time favourite running memory? (If you can pick one)
There are so many! My first win at SCC was amazing. My second and race record was even better. But my favourite memory would have to be at The North Face 100 in 2013. It was my first solo 100km race, and I had trained regularly with my buddy Luke. He had a great run on the day, and disappeared within the first few kilometres ahead of me. I didn’t see him again…..until 500m from the finish line! We were so excited to see each other after such a hard slog. We finished the race together and it was just the perfect ending.
Q) You recently claimed the win at the Buffalo Stampede, and you’re about to take on the You’ll have some time between then and defending your title at the Surf Coast Century in September, and later in the year will be the World Championships in Portugal. How do you pace yourself and how’s your training been going?
I didn’t take a break after Buffalo- it was more of a training run/lead up to UTA100. I wouldn’t say I have started training for the Century just yet, though the base is there.
UTA on the 14th May, then I will have a rest, and then start base building for Surf Coast Century and the World Champs.
Q) Will you hit the Surf Coast trails before the big event?
For sure! I love the trails down there- I spent my childhood holidays on the Surf Coast so I kind of feel like it is my home turf. I’m so excited to be coming back to defend my title –
it is one of my favourite races, bringing together my love of the beach and the bush. Running the Surf Coast Century over the past two years I’ve learned a lot about myself and my training, and can’t wait to bring some more knowledge back this year. I love how inclusive this race is, offering opportunities for everyone with a wide range of distances on offer. Get through with a team or go for it solo! The Surf Coast Century is also perfect for those considering their first 100km event- very well supported and never far from your crew.
Thanks for your time Kellie and happy running!
By Ali Deane