Down The Track
Athletics Victoria
Subscribe
Talking all things Track and Field, Road Racing, Recreational and Trail Running.
Available episodes
Newest first
Oldest first
Apr 28, 2021
Episode 56: 29 April 2021 Australian Track & Field Championships (Part 2)
Continuing the coverage from the recent Australian Track & Field Championships, Sean and Tim turn their focus to the field and multi events. Brooke Stratton joins DTT for a feature interview and takes us through the Championship leap of 6.84m which secured her spot on the Tokyo team.
Other interviews include Nina Kennedy, Elyssia Kenshole, Nicola McDermott, Ned Weatherly, Damien Birkenhead, Kathryn Mitchell & Rachel Limburg. Rounding out the interviews, Cedric Dubler and Ash Moloney have an entertaining wrap of the men's decathlon over a beer or two.
playlist_add
Apr 28, 2021
Episode 56: 28 April 2021 Australian Track & Field Championships (Part 1)
Down the Track were certainly trackside at the Australian Track & Field Championships, coming home with a number of high profile interviews from some of the nation's best athletes.
Episode 56 Part 1 covers the track events from the 100m through to the 10k walk featuring interviews with Rohan Browning, Jake Penny, Hana Basic, Peter Bol, Tess Kirsopp-Cole, Stewart McSweyn, Jye Edwards, Linden Hall & Rhydian Cowley. Sean and Tim talk in detail about each track event providing analysis of how the races panned out, the key players and the ramifications leading through to the Tokyo Olympics.
Make sure you tune into Down the Track for the most comprehensive wrap of what was a very significant championship event.
playlist_add
Mar 8, 2021
Episode 55: 9 March 2021 featuring Chloe Stevens, Grace Kelly, and Simone Brick
Yesterday on International Women’s Day, Sean and Tim were lucky to be joined on Episode 55 of Down the Track by Chloe Stevens, Grace Kelly, and Simone Brick. The theme for this year was “Choose to Challenge”. We found out what challenges they’ve each faced in athletics, which women have mentored them in the sport, and what advice they would give to women looking at getting into the sport of athletics.
playlist_add
Mar 2, 2021
Episode 54: 3 March 2021 – Victorian Track & Field Championships Wrap Up (Part 2)
In our second instalment of the Victorian Championships review, Mark Stewart, Marty Jackson and Matt Carter join us to talk about their areas of interest - Vertical Jumps, Throws and Sprints.
With each detailing their top 3 performances from each event group, we also review a range of different events and age categories across the two weekends of competition to wrap up an exciting few weeks in Victorian athletics.
playlist_add
Mar 1, 2021
Episode 54: 1 March 2021 – Victorian Track & Field Championships Wrap Up (Part 1)
Two exciting weekends of Track & Field action have just concluded at Lakeside Stadium for the combined Junior and Open Victorian Championships.
Joining Sean and Tim in part one of this two part Championship wrap are experienced coaches Brent Vallance, Peter Benifer, Cathy Woodruff and Gavin Burren to talk on the Walks, Hurdles, Horizontal Jumps and Middle Distance events respectively.
With great depth of knowledge across the events and the talent competing, our coaches list their highlight performances and memorable occasions from the five days of competition.
playlist_add
Feb 17, 2021
Episode 53: 17 February 2021 featuring Hana Basic & Morgan McDonald.
In another big episode of Down the Track, Sean and Tim interview two of the most exciting prospects in Australian athletics - Hana Basic & Morgan McDonald.
A World Junior representative in 2014, Hana Basic has come out of the Covid period in great form over the 100m. In a two part interview we talk to Hana about her recent performances in the Tasmanian gifts before setting the track on fire back in Victoria. In interview no.1 we get to know more about Hana... her life in and away from athletics and her goals and aspirations. Hana also talked about what it would take to break the 11.5 mark for the 100m, which then leads to interview no.2 recorded after her 11.45 performance at High Velocity Club.
A great personality who is now delivering performances that will put her in the eyes of the Olympic selectors, get to know Hana in an entertaining two part interview.
Like many of the US based Australians, Morgan McDonald's performances often go under the radar. With an International career that started in 2013 as a junior at the World Cross Country Championships, Morgan is now carving out a career as a professional athlete in the States. What that means for his running and life in general is delved into as he talks candidly about his performances and the life he is building in terms of the training environment, coaching structure and how to stay occupied in what can at times be a very one dimensional world.
Sean and Tim close the episode wrapping up the latest domestic and international news. Pre lockdown 3 was a busy time in Victorian athletics and results from the Victorian Multi, Mile & 5000m championships are discussed together with the latest Specialist group news. Sean also provides a summary of the recent ACT Championships in Canberra. And heading back to the US, the recent results of Oli Hoare, Morgan MCDonald and Charlie Hunter make for good discussion points.
And in what may amount to a major turning point in the history of Australian Athletics, the appointment of Kate Palmer to head the One Sport initiative closes out an entertaining episode of DTT.
Timeline
0.00:00 to 0:03:10 Intro
0:03:10 to 0:44:42 Hana Basic Interview 1
0:44:43 to 1:27:05 Morgan McDonald
1:27:06 to 1:38:28 Hana Basic interview 2
1:38:29 to 2:14:10 Summary of domestic, interstate and international results together with an update on the National Championships and the appointment of Kate Palmer
playlist_add
Jan 26, 2021
Episode 52: 27 January 2021 – Zatopek Recap
Join Sean and Tim for the most comprehensive post-event coverage of the Zatopek.
With all events on the program discussed in-depth, this is your chance to relive all the action of another great night of Australian athletics.
And as a bonus, the highlights from AV’s High Velocity Club and Country Championships are discussed.
playlist_add
Jan 21, 2021
Episode 51: 22 January 2021 featuring Jake Penny and Ryan Gregson
Down the Track returns for 2021! Joining Sean and Tim is Victorian 100m Champion Jake Penny, and Ryan Gregson, a man who has played a major role in the resurgence of Australian middle distance racing.
In early 2020 Jake Penny delivered a number of performances that indicated his sprint career was on the rise. Moving from the 10.5 to 10.3 range propelled Penny into the National top 10, then a wind assisted 10.17 at the Vic Championships had everyone talking.
So get to know the man behind the times in a revealing interview with Jake that delves into the past, present and the potential future of one of Victoria's leading sprint talents.
Ryan Gregson joins DTT to talk all things Zatopek and to reveal a little more about his 2020 experiences and the current state of middle distance running. An evergreen of the Australian and World athletic scene, Ryan has great insight into our sport having experienced the highs and lows for well over a decade.
Sean and Tim finish the episode covering a range of domestic events such as High Velocity, Milers Club, the Bendigo 5k Frenzy and Zatopek lower grades, together with observations and news on the International front.
So have a listen to Episode 51 to keep up to date with all things athletics.
playlist_add
Jan 7, 2021
Episode 50: 3 January 2021 featuring Kyle Murphy and Archie Wallis
Ever wondered about the NCAA experience? In episode 50 of Down the Track, Sean and Tim talk to Kyle Murphy and Archie Wallis about navigating their way into Harvard and Wake Forest Universities respectively, their experiences so far and how the pandemic has impacted their scholastic and athletic ambitions.
As expected each story has its unique aspects and can provide good learnings for Australian athletes and parents about the NCAA system and the pros and cons of considering this as a potential pathway.
Sean and Tim also chat about whats been happening in the world of athletics as we look forward to the potential return of some sort of Covid normal in 2021.
playlist_add
Dec 2, 2020
Episode 49: 3 December 2020 featuring Louise Sauvage, Richard Colman, and Jaryd Clifford
In recognition of the International Day of People with Disability, Down the Track are very pleased to welcome Australian legend Louise Sauvage to the podcast.
Joining Louise as co-interviewers are Richard Colman and Jaryd Clifford. As Australian athletes with their own long list of achievements, Richard and Jaryd talk to Louise about her post-competitive career experiences and where she sees the Para movement heading in terms of opportunities, recognition, and technology. With three well-versed people in this field, listeners will come away with some great insights and anecdotes into the Paralympic world.
Sean and Tim also provide some updates on what's happening in Athletics across the state, country and world. So tune in to Down the Track to keep up to date with our athletics world.
playlist_add
Oct 15, 2020
Episode 48: 16 October 2020 featuring Grace Brown
After a promising athletic career across middle and long-distance events, a series of injuries curtailed Grace Brown's progression. 2015 saw Grace's final performances in the Box Hill colours and she essentially disappeared from the athletic world only to reappear barely two years later as an emerging cyclist on the Australian and European circuits.
Now signed with the Australian Mitchelton Scott professional cycling team, Grace joins Down the Track to take us through her story... the transition away from running, her initial forays into cycling, life of the professional circuit, and what may lie ahead in her cycling career.
With a string of recent performances that have propelled Grace into the spotlight, we talk through her fifth placing in the Individual Time Trial at the World Championships, second place at Liege-Bastonge-Liege and finally her breakthrough European victory at the Brabantse Pijl road race. Despite the upheaval of 2020, it has been a good year for Grace on th…
playlist_add
Oct 4, 2020
Episode 47: 5 October 2020: London Marathon recap and special guest, Jess Rothwell
In a special edition of Down the Track, Sean and Tim analyse all the action from the London Marathon. Although the hype around the Kipchoge/Bekele showdown didn’t eventuate there were still many talking points from a unique event conducted amidst the COVID-19 period.
Jess Rothwell joins us for the second part of the podcast to talk all things nutrition. A world classwalker in her own right, Jess now assists our high performance athletes as part of the Athletics Australia team and speaks of her role and some of the interesting experiences it entails. Jess also dispels some nutritional myths and gives us the low down on life on a dairy farm. So keep up to date with Australian Athletics and tune in to Down the Track.
playlist_add
Sep 17, 2020
Episode 46: 18 September 2020 featuring Kim Mulhall and Bryan Cake.
Newly elected AV Committee member Kim Mulhall joins Sean and Tim for an extensive conversation covering the many aspects of her involvement in athletics. With twenty-one Victorian State titles to her name, together with a string of National tiles in both Senior and Junior ranks, Kim's experience from grassroots athletics through to international competition enables her to speak with authority on so many issues.
As head coach of the Caulfield Grammar athletic program, Kim discusses both the barriers and opportunities that present when working within the school system and broader athletic community, an area of expertise Kim hopes will assist Athletics Victoria to develop sustainable strategies as we emerge from the COVID period.
In a candid discussion of her own athletic career, Kim reveals for the first time the story of her PB Discus performance in the US and the question mark that this throw still has surrounding it.
In the second of our series focusing on the many and varied clu…
playlist_add
Sep 3, 2020
Episode 45: 4 September 2020 featuring Catherine Mendes, Peter Benifer, Ella Hose, Craig Wallace, Alice Baquie and Matt Rizzo.
In Episode 45 we've reached out to a number of people involved across the spectrum of athletics... athletes, a coach, a health professional and sports administrator to gauge the impact of COVID-19 and in particular life under Stage 4 restrictions.
As expected this hasn't been easy for any of us, but the resounding theme through the interviews is one of hope, positivity, and resilience. Whether it's been a change to your ability to access facilities, see your coach & squad or even in one case totally changing the way you do business, the lessons and experiences we'll take away from 2020 will be ongoing and continue to impact our lives and sport for years to come, if not permanently.
Our thanks to Catherine Mendes, Peter Benifer, Ella Hose, Craig Wallace, Alice Baquie and Matt Rizzo for sharing their stories and opening up about the impacts on their personal, professional, and sporting lives. Each story is unique in its own way, but the common message around adjusting to restrictio…
playlist_add
Aug 12, 2020
Episode 44: 13 August 2020 featuring Alexandra Hulley, Ned Weatherly and Dr Alice McNamara
Hammer throwing super couple Alexandra Hulley and Ned Weatherly join Down the Track for a great discussion on what is often a forgotten event in athletics. Tracking through their international and domestic careers, Alex and Ned speak with passion about one of the more technical disciplines, which although may not share the limelight with track events, certainly doesn’t lack the drama, talent and the characters who make for exciting competition when they step into the ring.
And although they have different personalities we get to hear what drives each of them in their quests to make their marks in the sport and how life in general is moving along for them personally and professionally in a changed world.
We also catch up with Dr. Alice McNamara to get a first-hand account of life on the COVID-19 frontline. A practising Sports Medicine Doctor, Alice is also manning testing stations several days a week as part of the concerted effort to bring the virus under control. Her insight int…
playlist_add
Jul 28, 2020
Episode 43: 29 July 2020. "People in Athletics" featuring Stu Macaulay
In Episode 43 Sean and Tim have an in-depth conversation with Stu Macaulay. For over 20 years Stu has been a fixture within the Athletics Victoria community as an Athlete, Coach, Administrator, Team Manager, and State Selector – roles which he has brought passion and commitment to.
In a broad-ranging conversation, Stu details his background both in a sporting and professional context, plus his motivation for doing what he does. As a man who has impacted the lives of many others, we also hear from Western Athletics members Claire Hodgart, Nardine Bainbridge, Phil Dunstone, and Adrian Jeffkins on their experiences with Stu and the influence he's had on each of them personally and the club that they all call home.
So to fill in the blanks about a person who has contributed so much to our sport, have a listen to the first episode in our "People in Athletics" series and get to know Stu Macaulay.
playlist_add
Jul 14, 2020
Episode 42: 14 July 2020 featuring Peter Bol and Stu Macaulay
Episode 42 kicks off with Olympian Peter Bol chatting to Sean and Tim about his life in and out of sport. From his move to Australia in the early 2000s through to his rise in the domestic and international athletics scene, Peter gets to tell his story. And as a skilled storyteller, we hear him weaving the characters he’s met and experiences he’s had into a wonderful tale about a young man finding his place in the world.
In a new segment, Stu Macaulay from Western Athletics discusses all about his club and what has made the mob from the west one of the most successful and highly functioning athletic clubs in the country. With 20 years of experience at the club, Stu talks about the characters who have shaped Western Athletics on and off the track and where he sees the club headed into the future.
Sean then provides an update on some international news including another athlete suspension and perhaps the most famous 185m run ever.
So tune in to Down the Track for more up to date ne…
playlist_add
Jun 25, 2020
Episode 41: 25 June 2020 featuring Luke Mathews
Sean and Tim are joined by Luke Mathews for Episode 41 of Down the Track. Having just turned 25, Luke has already endured the highs and lows of athletics with his performances speaking for themselves, but on the flip side the 'down' times influencing the athlete we see today.
In a candid interview, Luke discusses his current training environment, the key influences in his career, and the impact the delay to the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games has had on his competitive plans.
Luke also goes into detail about a number of his key performances to date, including his classic showdown with David Rudisha over 800m at Lakeside Stadium in 2015, his 2017 World Championship campaign, the 2018 Commonwealth Games 800m and finally the 2019 Australian 1500m final - one of the most anticipated races in recent athletics history.
Sean and Tim also discuss the most recent drugs in sport-related controversies surrounding Doha World Champions Christian Coleman and Salwa Eid Naser, and chat about the recen…
playlist_add
Jun 17, 2020
Episode 40: 18 June, Athletics Victoria’s return to competition plans
In a special episode of DTT we welcome Athletics Victoria CEO Glenn Turnor to give an update on where we are with the planning for a return to competition.
With a lot of speculation circulating, particularly given the return of NRL and AFL, Glenn details the discussions and negotiations the sport of athletics has been involved in at both the state and national level.
So if you want the real story behind the return to play planning for athletics listen in to Episode 40 of Down the Track.
playlist_add
Jun 2, 2020
Episode 39: 3 June, 2020 featuring Bridie O’Donnell (Part 2)
In the second of our two-part podcast with Bridie O’Donnell, we discuss a number of key themes centred around women in sport.
The first of these is the current imbalance in sport in terms of governance roles and the opportunities provided for women in elite sport. Bridie talks about how the Office for Women in Sport and Recreation is working with the sporting community to effect structural change across associations and clubs. With a broad background in elite sport, Bridie’s views and experiences as a female within professional sport provides an understanding of the specific issues elite women face.
The portrayal of women in sport is also discussed and touches on how the press and major broadcasters approach coverage and promotion of both teams and individuals. How this impacts what we see or read, and also the financial opportunities that may or may not stem from the decisions made by broadcasters or sports associations provides some thought-provoking discussion.
Finally, Bri…
playlist_add
May 27, 2020
Episode 39: 28 May, 2020 featuring Bridie O’Donnell (Part 1)
Trying to encapsulate Bridie O’Donnell’s life and achievements in one paragraph is no simple task. A stand out scholar, medical practitioner, elite sportswoman across multiple disciplines, and leading sports administrator are the headline phrases, but the stories behind each provide a rich tale of intertwined themes and experiences.
In part one of this two part podcast, Sean and Tim talk to Bridie about her formative years and the motivations that drove her into the world of elite sports… and ultimately a leading role in sports administration in Victoria as the Director of the Office for Women in Sport and Recreation.
A self-confessed ‘try-hard’, Bridie’s sporting achievements underly a driven character not afraid to break through barriers, challenge the norms, and carve a path that has led to a fundamental change in the management of sporting associations and clubs in this state.
We hope you enjoy part one, which provides the perfect platform for part two where some…
playlist_add
May 21, 2020
3to1 – Steve Hooker
As an athlete who at one time held every major championship title, Olympic and World Champion Pole Vaulter Steve Hooker joins 3to1 to delve into what he believes to be his three greatest performances.
Providing a wonderful insight into what’s required to produce a clearance, or series of clearances that matter, Steve takes us behind the scenes for each performance. And with these performances all unique in their own way, the mental and physical aspects before, during and after each competition help tell the story of why Steve Hooker is considered one of the greatest individual athletes Australia has ever produced.
Joining Steve is Mark Stewart, Steve’s first Pole Vault coach. The bond between these two, built on mutual trust and respect, helps guide the conversation with Mark’s commentary and insight into each performance presenting a different angle to that of the athlete.
playlist_add
May 15, 2020
Episode 38: 15 May, 2020 featuring Kelly Hetherington & Tom O’Shaughnessy
Sean and Tim are joined by two separate guests for Episode 38 of Down the Track, former Australian 800m champion Kelly Hetherington and Oceania Athletics’ Competition Manager Tom O’Shaughnessy
During a career that culminated in selection for the 2013 World Championships in Moscow, Kelly has certainly experienced more than her fair share of disappointment and heartache. But always shining through with an optimistic and can do attitude, Kelly’s athletics career should, and will, be defined more by her successes than the hurdles that have been a constant part of her story.
From her beginnings in Queensland through to her current career and competition situation, Kelly opens up about the highs and lows of sport and life and the ever present characters in her life that have helped shape the person we see.
With recent structural changes to qualification systems, Oceania Athletics now find themselves in a position where southern Australia is acutely interested in their competiti…
playlist_add
May 6, 2020
Episode 37: 6 May, 2020 featuring Mark Arbib
For Episode 37 Sean and Tim are joined by the President of Athletics Australia, Mark Arbib.
After a political career as a NSW Senator, that included time as the Federal Minister for Sport, Mark has had extensive experience with a number of major sports. These include Rugby Union, Rugby League, and Football, and he also sits on the Australian Olympic Committee.
In some broad-ranging discussions we delve into the world of Mark Arbib including his vast experience in Australia’s sporting landscape and the motivations behind his move into the senior leadership position for Athletics in this country.
Mark also details what’s been happening at Athletics Australia during the pandemic and how their operational model has adapted to the new working conditions we all face.
With Bathurst 2021 now a major focus for AA, we discuss how preparations are tracking and if the current situation may impact the planning and delivery of the World Cross Country Championship.
So if you want to get…
playlist_add
Apr 26, 2020
Episode 36: 27 April, 2020 featuring Kane Cornes
AFL legend and media personality Kane Cornes joins Sean and Tim for the latest episode of Down the Track.
After an illustrious 300 game AFL career with Port Adelaide that included the 2004 Premiership, two All Australian selections, and four club best and fairest awards, Kane has now transitioned into the media with numerous roles in television, radio and print media.
His post-football career, however, has seen him develop a passion for running and athletics which has seen him run a 2:35 marathon in Melbourne and become an advocate for our sport in the media.
Kane provides great insight on how the Covid19 has impacted major sport across Australia and what it may mean heading into the future for these sports. On a personal front, the isolation measures have led to Kane having to adjust his work environment and adapt to life at home, which included him running a marathon around his tennis court to raise money for charity!
In international news, the British athletic community is…
playlist_add
Apr 20, 2020
Episode 35: 20 April, 2020 featuring Steve Moneghetti
Since the last episode in early March, the world as we know it has certainly changed a little. So after a short hiatus, Down the Track is back and what an episode it is. Sean and Tim are joined by Australian running legend Steve Moneghetti to discuss the impact and ramifications of Covid19 – particularly in terms of the sport of athletics.
By mid-March, it was obvious that the situation was getting serious and the cascading number of event cancellations started to hit home to the athletics and running fraternity. Sean talks about the cancellation of the Australian Championships while Steve talks about his experience with one of Victoria’s largest running events, the Run for the Kids.
And it's not just events in the firing line, training for everyone has now been upended as squads are no longer allowed, social distancing is the thing and the ability to travel to training venues curtailed. So adapting to a new routine is important and Steve talks of his personal experience of a…
playlist_add
Mar 3, 2020
Episode 34: 4 March, 2020 featuring Mia Gross
With weekend one of the Victorian Track & Field Championships completed, there’s plenty to talk about in Episode 34 of Down the Track.
Fresh off her Under 20 400m win in the Vic Champs, and a recent 100m PB of 11.70, Mia Gross joins Sean and Tim to discuss her performance and review other standout performances from the first weekend. We get to hear from Dalton Di Medio, Emma Werner and Jake Penny who all took home Victorian State titles, a first for Dalton and Emma.
The breaking news last Friday was Eleanor Patterson breaking the Australian High Jump record at the Capital Classic in Wellington, with a clearance of 1.99m. After reaching 1.96m as a 17 year old, Eleanor’s foray back into top level jumping that has involved a number of critical changes behind the scenes, sees the 23 year old now in a position to challenge the best in the world.
Already dubbed ‘Geelong’s finest’ by Sean, Mia then tells us her story that includes some amusing tales from the self confessed…
playlist_add
Feb 25, 2020
Episode 33: 26 February, 2020 featuring Jack Hale
The summer of athletics keeps rolling on with local, interstate and a number of events across the ditch in New Zealand providing plenty of options for competitors at all levels.
Joining Sean and Tim in the studio is one of Australia’s leading sprinters, and a man who really doesn’t need an introduction – Jack Hale.
Jack adds his insights into the Track Classics and his recent experience at the Sir Graham Douglas International Meet in Auckland. Once again we go through some of the highlight performances from Canberra and Sydney including our High Jump girls and the Deng V Bol show continuing on its merry way.
We also get to know a little bit more about Jack Hale, going behind the media spin and trying to find out the drivers that keep him going in what can be a very tough sporting environment. Jack’s desire for an individual team spot at the highest level, and the pursuit of faster times shine through as key motivators, so too the strong support base and camaraderie am…
playlist_add
Feb 11, 2020
Episode 32: 11 February, 2020 featuring Jemima Montag
War Memorial Drive in Adelaide played host the Australian 20km Walks Championship, doubling as the Olympic Selection trial. Our special guest for Episode 32 is Jemima Montag, who secured her ticket to the Olympics with a great performance on Sunday.
This episode kicks off with a review of the Melbourne Track Classic with Sean listing his top three performances on the track (and a couple of honourable mentions) while Tim looks at what was happening in the field.
Our special guest relives the action from Adelaide and what it felt like to not only win her first Open Australian Championship but to also get the auto qualifier for the Olympics. We also cover off Dane Bird-Smith’s win and the options open to Rhydian Cowley.
In what should be a ‘must listen’ segment for all aspiring athletes, Jemima then tells her story of life, sport and the issues faced by athletes of this generation. With body image and eating disorders quite prevalent in endurance sports, Jemima reveals…
playlist_add
Jan 28, 2020
Episode 31: 29 January, 2020 featuring Marty Jackson
Sean and Tim are joined by Para athlete extraordinaire Marty Jackson for Episode 31. Marty has made a big impact in athletics over his five year involvement in the sport and with a Commonwealth Games silver and World Para Championship bronze medal already in his collection, Marty talks about his life and plans leading through to the next World Championships in 2021. .
The Geelong Region once again hosted the very successful Steigen Victorian Country Championships over the Australia Day long weekend. Some of the highlight performances are discussed including Kath Mitchell’s return to competition and the very strong performances in the throws events in particular.
Box Hill hosted another record breaking Victorian Milers Club while the Rare Air Club had a split competition between Melbourne University and Casey Fields. A lively conversation about pacers at Milers Club ensues… definitely some frustration expressed by our track side experts.
Eleanor Patterson signall…
playlist_add
Jan 14, 2020
Episode 30: 15 January, 2020
After an end of year break, Sean and Tim are back to discuss, assess and dissect the major themes of athletics across the state, nation and world.
Although by definition the decade hasn’t technically ended, we do have a look at some major themes in athletics from 2010 through to 2019. Plenty of positives and negatives to throw around and we’re not just talking drugs in sport!
After 15 years the Zatopek returned to Hagenauer Reserve in Box Hill, and what a meet it was! Stewart McSweyn stole the show with an Australian 10,000m record but there was so much else that made this a meet that will be talked about for years to come.
Two meets in two states on one day may have ruffled some feathers, but there’s no doubt the Steigen Spectacular in Geelong and Albie Thomas Australian Mile Championship in Bankstown NSW both delivered excellent products. Sean and Tim discuss the meets and what they contribute to the Australian athletics landscape.
Meanwhile Athletics Victoria…
playlist_add
Nov 8, 2019
Episode 29: 8 November, 2019
Lots to talk about once again as Sean & Tim digest all the action in the world of athletics.
Weekend 2 of the All Schools Championships once again provided some challenging conditions as the heavens opened up of the Saturday competition. Nonetheless the cream rose to the top and some great performances in trying conditions were recorded.
Day one of the World Para Athletics in Dubai provided Australia and Victoria with a big reason to celebrate as Jaryd Clifford took gold and claimed a new world record in the 1500m. Michael Roeger snared a silver in the 1500m to kick off a championship that holds plenty of promise for Team Australia.
A number of AV Specialist Groups have kicked off their seasons so we report in on the action from the Rare Air Club and Milers Club meets. Lisa Verstraten was trackside at Milers Club to grab interviews with Marlie Campton, Alex Rowe, Lucinda Rourke and Sam McEntee. The Race Walking Club also started their summer program at Middle Park with a range of…
playlist_add
Oct 23, 2019
Episode 28: 24 October, 2019 featuring Linden Hall
Dual Australian record holder Linden Hall joins Sean and Tim for another big episode of Down the Track.
October 9th is now officially Peter Norman day, and a big collection of dignitaries, athletics royalty and Peter’s family gathered at Lakeside Stadium for the unveiling of his statue which stands proudly outside Gate 1. DTT caught up with Peter’s daughter Janita and we discuss the legacy of the man and change in attitudes over time that now see him as a figure globally honoured and respected.
It was with sadness that our sport recently lost John Higham. A multiple Australian champion, Commonwealth Games medallist and active administrator at local, state and national level, John was a large figure in the sport of athletics and will be greatly missed.
Recently returned from her campaign that culminated in the World Championship 1500m in Doha, Linden Hall chats about her season and provides great insight into the ups and downs of life on the athletic circuit.
After a busy…
playlist_add
Oct 9, 2019
Episode 27: 10 October, 2019
Sean returns from his trip to Doha and joins Tim for a general conversation on what proved to be an interesting World Championships on a number of fronts. With an insider's view of the many facets of Doha 2019, Sean provides some great insight on the championships.
In other results Max Ueda and Bec Beagley took wins in the Victorian Trail Running Championships at Lysterfield Lake and they both speak to DTT about the event and what they are up to. Meanwhile Kenenisa Bekele narrowly missed the World Marathon best time on the roads of Berlin. And in a surprise result DTT’s very own Nick Earl took the scalp of a 2:07 marathon runner on his way to victory in the Brussels Half Marathon.
DTT are pleased to welcome Revvies Energy Strips on board as a sponsor and we reveal the great deal they have for listeners.
During the World Championships the Alberto Salazar bombshell dropped. Sean and Tim have a frank discussion on what it means and how various key players may be impacted.
Also d…
playlist_add
Sep 23, 2019
Episode 26: 23 September 2019
The dulcet tones of Hamish Beaumont are welcomed into the Down the Track studio once again to talk all things athletics.
Episode 26 leads off with a summary of the three Australian Championships conducted on Sunday 15th September - the Marathon in Sydney, the Road Racing in Adelaide and Mountain Running in Brisbane. Some great performances once again from our Victorian contingent with Lisa Weightman (Road) and Simone Brick (Mountains) being crowned Australian Champions.
XCR’19 came to an exciting conclusion with Rd.10 at the Tan Track. St Stephens Harriers maintained their year long consistency to take out the Men’s Premier Division, while we had to wait until the final runners crossed the line in the Women’s race to award the Collingwood Harriers their first Premier Division team title. We also cover the huge battle in Men’s Division 2 between APS United and the Bendigo Region.
With the INEOS Sub 2 challenge not far away, Kenya’s Geoffrey Kamworor grabbed his moment…
playlist_add
Sep 15, 2019
Episode 25: 16 September featuring Rhydian Cowley
We're back for another big Episode of Down the Track, with special guest Rhydian Cowley. In this episode we go through the World Champs team announcement, results from the Burnley Half Marathon, plus other local and international results and hot topics. We've also got special guest interviews from Rebecca Beagley, Kiah Fry, Liam Adams, Ryan Geard and Sharon Firisua.
The world of athletics never stops!
playlist_add
Aug 29, 2019
Episode 24: 30 August, 2019
With so much Australian activity on the European circuit, Sean and Tim review the late August results from places as diverse as Cork in Ireland through to Schifflange in Luxembourg. The clock is ticking towards the Doha cut off so which Australians are booking their spots on the World Championship team?
Kembla Grange played host to the 2019 Australian Cross Country Championships, so for the most complete review of all the Junior and Senior action listen in to Tim & Sean’s first hand insights to a great day of racing. Once again the DTT voice recorder was working overtime to bring a range of interviews from some event winners and notable Victorian performers.
With the world’s fastest man (allegedly) missing three tests, the Hot Topics kick off with Christian Coleman before Ato Bolden coming into the less than salubrious spotlight. David Rudisha survived a rather nasty road accident on his way home to Kilgoris in Kenya and we discuss where his athletics career may be headed. Tim…
playlist_add
Aug 15, 2019
Episode 23: 16 August, 2019 featuring Maxine Paholek
Tim and Sean are back for another riveting episode of Down the Track. The in-studio guest is Maxine Paholek, back in Australia on break from Boise State University where as a Freshman she established herself as a key member of the Bronco’s NCAA Cross Country and Track squads.
Maxine provides great insight into her experience so far in the NCAA system, and adapting to life in general as a US College student. With some great performances over the cross country season then recording a substantial PB in her specialist track event the 3000m Steeple, Maxine talks us through how she approached each season and the usual highs and lows along the way.
In international news the Australian performances in Europe continue with Ninove (Belgium) and Bern (Switzerland) playing hos to a number of Australians including Ryan & Genevieve Gregson, Michelle Jenneke, James Hansen and Nick Hough. Heidi See popped out a 4:33 mile in the USA, while Georgia Winkcup continued her strong progression in the ste…
playlist_add
Aug 1, 2019
Episode 22: 1 August, 2019 featuring Hamish Beaumont
After successfully navigating the highways and byways of continental Europe, a tanned but not so fit Sean Whipp re-joins the Down the Track team for Episode 22. Joining Sean and Tim in the DTT hot seat is Hamish Beaumont – a man who needs no introduction.
The episode kicks off with Sean enlightening us on his European tour as an athlete manager, culminating in Catriona Bisset’s record breaking 800m performance at the London Diamond League. Sean also reflects on the World University Games in Naples before moving on to an in depth analysis of the Australian performances in London.
XCR’19 moved to balmy Ballarat in the depths of winter, where unseasonal conditions provided a great opportunity for runners to post fast 15km & 6km times around the Lake Wendouree circuit. DTT caught up with race winners Kiah Fry and Andrew Buchanan to discuss their runs.
And as we move to the latter stages of XCR’19, Hamish delivers an honest assessment of the various Premiership and releg…
playlist_add
Jul 18, 2019
Episode 21: 19 July, 2019
The World University Games dominates Episode 21 with Nick Wall joining Tim to discuss the competition, the results and what it means to Australian athletics.
Finishing third on the medal table with a record tally of 10 medals, the games were certainly viewed as a successful one for Team Australia. Thanks to Rob Cumbrae-Stewart from Athletics Australia, we have several great interviews lined up, including many of our medallists who provide insight into their games’ experiences.
Stewart McSweyn propelled himself to second on the Australian All-Time list for 1500m with a great run to finish eighth at the Monaco Diamond League. Nicola McDermott also performed well by placing third in the High Jump in a meet that produced 10 national records, 5 world leads, 4 meet records and a World Record.
The Lakeside:10 once again produced the highest quality field for an Australian 10km road race. With 14 sub 30min performances and over half the field going under 40mins, our local 10k finishing…
playlist_add
Jul 10, 2019
Episode 20: 11 July, 2019 with Lisa Verstraten and Matt Mahon
The recent Oceania Track & Field Championships in Townsville are the central theme for Episode 20 of DTT.
With Sean Whipp enduring the European heatwave on a diet of pasta and chianti, Tim is joined in studio by Lisa Verstraten as co-host. And in the guest’s chair we are very pleased to have Oceania Athletics Council member Matt Mahon to provide the inside word on the Championships from the organiser’s perspective.
The episode kicks off with the announcement of the very strong Victorian open teams taking part in the Australian Half Marathon Championship on the Sunshine Coast and the Australian Cross Country Championships in Wollongong – both competitions taking place in August.
Discussion turns to the Oceania Championships with Matt providing some great insight into the organisation, the event and the bearing these Championships now have on athletics in Australia and across the region.
The first part of our results wrap focusses on the Sprints/Hurdles, Jumps a…
playlist_add
Jun 21, 2019
Episode 19: 21 June, 2019 – With special guest, Jaryd Clifford
Down the Track - Episode 19
Jaryd Clifford joins Sean & Tim for Episode 19 of Down the Track. Jaryd opens up about his career in athletics, the important influences in his career and future plans.
Ben Buckingham produced a big result in Europe, so Sean provides an overview of this and other performances from across the world.
A number of hot topics provide Sean with plenty to talk about. The Caster Semenya case is back in the courts and the saga that is the Russian athletics drug scandal just continues to provide great fodder for DTT! Former Victorian middle distance runner, James Whelan, has transitioned nicely to pro cycling and has just signed for Education First -Drapac team in Europe. And in a very good news story, Sean & Tim discuss the historically high number of Australian women who have broken 16min for 5000m.
All the action from the All Schools and XCR races at Bundoora is discussed with interviews from Abbey Caldwell, Luca Di Conza, Ellie Pashley and Harry Su…
playlist_add
Jun 7, 2019
Episode 18: 7 June, 2019 – With special guest, Nana Adoma Owusu-Afriyie
For Episode 18 Sean and Tim are joined by one of Australia’s leading sprinters, Nana Adoma Owusu-Afriyie. Nana is not long back from the World Relays in Yokohama and a blistering performance over 200m at the Osaka World Challenge meet.
Nana discusses her career to date, plans for the short to medium term and touches on the long lasting coaching relationship with Tony Marsh.
Also in the episode Sean provides and update on what’s been happening across the globe in athletics while on the domestic front the XCR season is now well underway.
With not one but two hot topics to discuss, Sean and Tim delve into why it is so hard for elite Australian athletes to stay in the sport, or stay aligned to our country and some very questionable selection practices recently beg the question are the Australian selectors still up for the job?
Feature interviews include Craig Mottram about his involvement in developing young athletes and life post competition in general, plus we cau…
playlist_add
May 10, 2019
Episode 17: 10 May, 2019
Some great Australian results overseas at the Payton Jordan and DOHA Diamond League meets in recent weeks. Ellie Pashley nailed the 10000m World Championships qualifying time in the US Meet, while Jordan Gusman gained automatic selection in the 5000m at the same meet, if he chooses to take it.
Brooke Stratton reclaimed some good form with a close third place in the Long Jump at Doha, leading up until the 5th attempt while Ryan Gregson posted a World Championships qualifier in the 1500m.
In local news we wrap up the results from the Great Train Race, Nail Can Hill Run in Albury, Wings for Life Melbourne World Run and cover the VRWC Walks event at Albert Park. The Sydney:10 proved once again to be the showcase event for Athletics NSW, with Ben St Lawrence and Emily Brichacek recording strong wins over the 10km Homebush course. Tim also comments on a new concept event from South Australia, the Flinders Twilight Cross Country.
XCR’19 kicked off in fine, if rather damp, for…
playlist_add
May 3, 2019
Episode 16: 3 May, 2019
The London Marathon proved a happy hunting ground for Eliud Kipchoge and Brigid Kosgei, but the Australian contingent were not to be outdone. Sean and Tim discuss how the Victorians fared in London and well as providing an overview of the event itself and some interesting side conversations on biological passports and the next iteration of Nike’s racing shoe.
Catriona Bisset was the star performer at the Australian University T&F Championships, dipping under the 2min 800m barrier for the first time. Sean outlines what’s ahead for Catriona and the impact her rise to prominence has had on her life. Other results are discussed, including Georgia Griffith and Georgia Hansen’s 1-2 in the Women’s 1500m
As expected the Stawell Gift provided plenty of excitement and a review of the results talks about the great wins by Alexia Loizou and Dhruv Rodrigues Chico in the gifts.
Tim took a trip to Darwin for the Arafura Games and gives an overview of the event that includes int…
playlist_add
Apr 17, 2019
Episode 15: Stawell Gift Preview
Down the Track - Episode 15
The Easter long weekend means just one thing for athletics fans across the country – the time honoured tradition and action of the Stawell Gift.
The regional city of Stawell once again plays host to the drama, intrigue and pure athleticism of the pinnacle event in the professional running circuit and with all roads leading to Stawell, DTT gets down amongst the action.
Tim is joined by Arron Downes to provide a glimpse into the world of pro running, explaining such terms as Backmarkers, Frontmarkers, Restricted races and Open Gifts before going through the major events on offer one by one.
Whether you’re into the pro scene or not, with names like Wells, Coates, Despard and Romanin joined by Rodrigues Chico, Lugo and Carter and Forsyth there is certain to be plenty of interest throughout the weekend.
DTT also interviews VAL CEO (and 2010 Stawell Gift winner) Tom Burbidge for his insight into the week ahead and what may be in store for…
playlist_add
Apr 15, 2019
Episode 14: 2019 Australian Track & Field Championships Recap.
Another massive Episode of DTT as Sean and Tim dissect the action from the 2019 Australian Track & Field Championships.
With 23 interviews across the majority of events DTT listeners will get to hear how the Championships played out from the perspective of the athletes themselves. Raw emotions come to the fore – the elation of winning, handling defeat and the moment it sinks in you’re a Australian Champion.
DTT also delves into some of the more controversial moments of the Championship including the last minute call to scrap the semi finals in the Men’s 800m – confusion reigned and hopefully some lessons learned.
Interviewed athletes include:
* Maddie Coates
* Steve Solomon
* Celeste Mucci
* Ellen Pettitt
* Henry Smith
* Chris Mitrevski
* Matt Ramsden
* Luke Mathews
* Madeleine Murray
* Peter Bol
* Joseph Deng
* Georgia Griffiths
* Catriona Bissett
* Marty Jackson
* Kirstie Newcombe
* Daniel Milone
* Cassidy Bradshaw
* Fraser Symons…
playlist_add
Apr 12, 2019
Episode 13: World Cross Country Championship Edition
In what was heralded as a ground breaking move for the discipline, the 2019 IAAF World Cross Country Championships were staged in the grounds of a museum in the Danish town of Aarhus.
With mud, water, sand and a horde of Vikings this was billed as a new era for the historic Cross Country Championship which had seen declining interest, particularly in Europe in recent years.
DTT’s roving reporter Lisa Verstraten was on hand in Aarhus to provide a number of pre and post races interviews with Team Australia, capturing the nerves, anticipation, excitement and elation of the event.
DTT also gives the inside scoop on the initial planning phase for the next World Cross Country – Bathurst 2021. So listen in for what’s planned for the next major championship to come to Australia.
Time Line
00:00 to 01:00 Intro
01:01 to 15:34 World Cross Country overview and Junior Women’s Race
15:35 to 28:40 Junior Men’s Race
28:41 to 45:25…
playlist_add
Mar 30, 2019
Episode 12: 30 March, 2019.
So much track action across Australia which Sean and Tim dissect in their usual manner
Locally we had the High Velocity Club and Victorian Milers Club meets which presented our local athletes with a perfect opportunity to tune up for the National Championships.
Mia Gross scored a 100/200 double at HVC with Matthew Rizzo having a close win over Cameron De Bruin in the Men’s 100m. Running in heat 3 Cameron Searle, ran 21.83 for the fastest time 200m time and Liam Procaccino took out a very competitive Men’s 400m
Jess Gulli-Nance continued her march towards Nationals with an impressive run of 54.08 in the Women’s 400m, while over the hurdles Lateisha Willis and Marli Wilkinson took victory in the 100m and 400m events respectively.
In the Men’s hurdles Luke Major and Conor Fry once again went head to head in the 400m with Major taking the win with a 52.21 and State Champion Ben Khongbut ran 14.63 for the 110m hurdles.
In the field Celeste Mucci took out the Long Jump and Ell…
playlist_add
Mar 14, 2019
Episode 11: 15 March, 2019
A great start to weekend two of the 2019 Coles Victorian Open and Junior Track & Field Championships, with Swede Perseus Karlstrom recording an Australian All Comers record of 18:32.56 in the 5000m Walk, breaking the Swedish 3000m and 5000m records at the same time. It was great to hear from Perseus about his training and racing plans and the importance of his visits to Australia.
Rhydian Cowley scored his 7th Victorian title in the Walk joining Chris Erickson, who finished second, with seven wins. Jemima Montag was also impressive taking her second successive Walk title and she talks to Down the Track about her international plans coming up.
We had steeplechase victories for Reilly Shaw and Charlotte Wilson and hear from them about their races.
Para athletes Marty Jackson, Maria Strong, Richard Colman and Sam Rizzo took time to speak to Down the Track and it was great to get insight into their training and racing plans.
In the field we hear from Shot Putter Matthew Cowie and…
playlist_add
Mar 6, 2019
Episode 10: 7 March, 2019
Down the Track - Episode 10
A big weekend of action took place at Lakeside Stadium for week 1 of the Coles Victorian Open and Junior Track and Field Championships.
In the Open field events, Kim Mulhall claimed her 12th Victorian Discus title and in an impressive display produced her best ever Championship winning throw. Nick Dyson had a strong back end to his Discus competition to leapfrog the opposition and claim his first Open Championship win.
Ellen Pettitt and Alwyn Jones were the standouts in the Triple Jump competition, with Ellen beatuing perhaps the strongest domestic field yet assembled in Australia to take home title number three in this discipline. For Alwyn it was the 8th time he’d won the Victorian Championship, still one win shy of his nine Australian Championship wins.
In the Javelin Breanna Large claimed her 2nd title and edged closer to her target distance of 45 metres, while Calum Dean has worked his way through a shoulder injury to also take Javelin title no.…
playlist_add
Feb 26, 2019
Episode 9: 27 February, 2019
The Sydney Track Classic headlined the national athletics action over the weekend and Sean analyses the meet and provides his view on the performances. Georgia Griffith discusses her race in the 800m while we talk through some of the key events including Jordan Gusman and Melissa Duncan winning the Aus 5000m Champs. The Men’s 3000m Steeple was a highlight event with Matthew Clarke and Ben Buckingham placing 2nd and 3rd in breakthrough performances. In the sprints Jack Hale had another win, while Celeste Mucci stamped herself as a hurdling force with an impressive display over the 100m.
In a wrap of the High Velocity Club action we hear from Rachel Limburg, Ellen Pettit, Ayo Ore, Anotony James, Lateisha Willis, Michael Hansford, Kiara Reddingius, Lawson Power, Ashleigh Palmer and Morgan Mitchell about their respective events.
The Victorian Mile Championship saw wins to Natalie Rule and Matt Ramsden and we hear from both. Catriona Bissett stepped up for her first mile and des…
playlist_add
Feb 13, 2019
Episode 8: 13 February, 2019.
With the athletics action hotting up across Australia, Sean reviews the ACT Championships that featured many prominent Victorian athletes including long jumpers Brooke Stratton and Darcy Roper. Roper’s training partners Henry Smith and Chris Mitrevsky also jumped well, with Smith leading the competition with a PB of 8:06m until Roper’s final jump of 8.20m. In the sprints Nana Owusu-Afriye ran an eye popping 200m and Jack Hale maintained his consistency and took out the win.
Tim caught up with Harry Summers to reflect of his World Cross Country selection and discuss his aspirations for the event.
The Box Hill Classic didn’t disappoint with a magic night of running across the 200m, 800m & 3000m distances. Harry Summers lead 5 men under the 8min mark for the 3000m while Morgan Mitchell had a great stoush with Georgia Griffiths to win the 800m in 2:03.93, her first sun 2:04 performance.
The sprints saw Anastasia Purcell and Tom Willems take victories on a night where PB’s came c…
playlist_add
Feb 1, 2019
Episode 7: 1 February, 2019.
In Episode 7 Sean & Tim re-live the action from the World Cross Country Selection in Canberra. We interview the winners Brett Robinson and Charlotte Purdue from the UK, together with first Australian female Melissa Duncan. Jack Rayner and Jack Bruce also take time to chat to Down the Track while Australian distance running legend Liam Adams reflects on his race and also talks up what could be a resurgence in Australian men’s marathon running.
Jackson Sharp and Sarah Schiffman talk to us about their good wins in the U20 trials and Abbey Caldwell discusses just how important it was to snare fourth position.
Sean provides an overview of the Hunter and Canberra Track Classic results, including the 600m events at Hunter where the men were gunning for the Australia record. The VAL Gifts moved to Wangaratta and Maribyrnong over the long weekend and Tim reviews the performances.
For AV’s regional clubs the Australia Day long weekend is the chance to get together at the Victorian C…
playlist_add
Jan 24, 2019
Episode 6: 25 January, 2019 - Extended Interviews
Down the Track - Episode 6 Extended Interviews
The Down the Track team have been busy chatting to a variety of people, so have put together extended versions of our interviews with:
* Jordan Gusman
* Abbey de la Motte
* Peter Bol
* Katrina Anderson
* Matthew Scott
* Abbey Caldwell
* George Hedley
* Simone Brick
* Tim Erickson
playlist_add
Jan 24, 2019
Episode 6: 25 January, 2019
In Episode 6 Sean & Tim preview the World Cross Country Selection trial taking place in Canberra over the long weekend. With two automatic qualifying spots on the line, the fields are looking strong across the Open and Junior categories as the trip to Denmark in March beckons.
With lots of competition underway already in 2019, a full rundown of results from the Milers Club and High Velocity Club competitions are discussed including interviews Abbey de la Motte, Matthew Scott, Katrina Anderson, Abbey Caldwell, Jordan Gusman, Peter Bol and Stefan Music.
The VAL season is well underway and selected results are provided for the Rye, Frankston and St Albans Gift.
Bendigo hosted the Victorian Multi Event Championships and once again our Decathletes and Heptathletes were out in numbers across the two day competition.
Dion Finocchiaro and Nick Earl tasted sweet success at the Cadbury’s Marathon and Half Marathon in Hobart , while the most prestigious trail race in Victoria saw Ash Wats…
playlist_add
Jan 10, 2019
Episode 5: 11 January, 2019
In this episode, Tim Crosbie and Sean Whipp chat about Fukuoka Marathon, Steigen, what’s coming up and plenty more!
Don’t forget to subscribe and keep up to date across everything Athletics Victoria:
www.facebook.com/athsvic/
instagram.com/athleticsvictoria
twitter.com/athsvic
www.youtube.com/user/athsvictv
playlist_add
Dec 17, 2018
Episode 4: 18 December, 2018
In this episode jam-packed with interviews, Tim and Sean dissect a huge night of track and field at Zatopek:10.
playlist_add
Dec 12, 2018
Episode 3: 12 December, 2018
Check-in with Tim Crosbie and Sean Whipp, as they talk all things athletics!
Don't forget to subscribe and keep up to date across everything Athletics Victoria:
www.facebook.com/athsvic/
instagram.com/athleticsvictoria
twitter.com/athsvic
www.youtube.com/user/athsvictv
playlist_add
Nov 28, 2018
Episode 2: 29 November, 2018
This week Tim Crosbie and Sean Whipp talk about the Victorian 5,000m and Track Relay Championship Reviews and plenty more!
Don't forget to subscribe and keep up to date across everything Athletics Victoria:
www.facebook.com/athsvic/
instagram.com/athleticsvictoria
twitter.com/athsvic
www.youtube.com/user/athsvictv
playlist_add
Nov 14, 2018
Episode 1: 15 November, 2018
In this episode, Tim Crosbie and Sean Whipp chat All Schools recap, the Victorian Milers Club and what's coming up!
Don't forget to subscribe and keep up to date across everything Athletics Victoria:
www.facebook.com/athsvic/
instagram.com/athleticsvictoria
twitter.com/athsvic
www.youtube.com/user/athsvictv
playlist_add