Matt Crehan – Ultra Consistent!

Over the last 6 years or so, one of the most consistent runners on the Australian trail scene has been Matt Crehan. He has a habit of winning, having crossed the line at the pointy end of the field in most of the big races across the country. Not only is he super reliable, but he is crushing events over every distance, from 10km to 100 miles. We had a quick chat with Matt to learn a bit about him, and some of his answers make great reading for anyone looking to improve their trail running ability.

What got you into trail running?

Primarily it was just a love of being outdoors. I had grown up doing a fair amount of hiking, but found trail running as a good way to see more of the landscape, while still moving at a pace where you can take in the surroundings.  

How do you keep motivated?

Motivation has a habit of shifting forms. Sometimes it can come from targeting an event, and wanting to get the best out of myself on a particular day. Other times it’s just about finding a groove with the training. It’s a great feeling to be able to be fit enough to get out and do epic shit when the opportunity arises.   

What has been your biggest achievement in the sport?

Representing Australia in both the Skyrunning and Mountain & Trail Running World Championships. Representing your country is always an honour, and adds some extra motivation to the race, knowing you are racing for the team, not just yourself. I have been part of the Skyrunning team in 2022, and the WMTRC in ’22, ’23 and ’25. Each of them a different, yet incredibly rewarding experience. 

What has been your favourite race?

Lavaredo Ultra Trail – a 120 km race in the Dolomite Mountains of Northern Italy. Stunning location, really well put on event, and the communities in Cortina and other surrounding mountain towns really get out and embrace it. I’ve been lucky enough to get out there three times, and I’m sure I’ll be back there again soon.  

Is there an event you’ve always wanted to do but haven’t?

Tor des Géants would have to be up there. It’s a 330 km traverse of the Aosta Valley in the Italian Alps. Although I’m not sure that I’d treat it as a race, more of a multi day adventure. 

What is your favourite training session?

Big mountain days are always the most fun, although for good ‘bang for your buck’, it’s hard to go past short hard hill repeats. They are hard, but that is the point. 

What is your favourite piece of running gear?

La Sportiva Prodigio Pro. Great over so much different terrain, and just so much fun to run in! 

What advice do you have for newcomers to the sport?

Be patient, and have fun with it. It’s very much a lifestyle sport, and can be tempting to jump into everything all at once. The longer distances take a while to build up to, especially if you want to enjoy them, and have longevity in the sport.  

What events are you targeting in 2026?

I haven’t completely ironed out my season for 2026, but I will likely start with something at Buffalo Stampede, then UTA 100km, and then potentially UTMB. It is a race that I thought I might be done with, but with some selective amnesia kicking in, it’s beginning to draw me back. On top of that, I’m sure there will be few other races that I’ll pepper in here and there.  

Outside of running, what other training do you incorporate?

The majority of my training comes from hitting the trails, but I do add in a few other bits and pieces. I still do a little bit of swimming, although not as much as I used to. I try to be consistent with strength work in the gym, and get out on the gravel bike when I can find the time.