Bob Fickel's 40th Canberra Marathon Run: A Canberra Times Update

Omar Yusuf

4 min read

Post on Apr 25, 2025

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Bob Fickel's Marathon History: A Canberra Icon

Bob Fickel is more than just a participant; he's a Canberra Marathon legend. His 39 previous runs are a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and unwavering love for the sport. He first laced up his running shoes for the Canberra Marathon in 1984, immediately becoming a fixture in the Canberra running community. Over the decades, he's faced numerous challenges, from unexpected weather to niggling injuries, yet he's always returned, year after year.

• Year of first participation: 1984
• Best finishing time: 2 hours, 58 minutes (achieved in 1992)
• Significant obstacles overcome: In 1998, a severe hamstring injury threatened to end his streak, but through rigorous physiotherapy and determination, he completed the race.
• Community involvement and fundraising: Bob has consistently used his participation in the Canberra Marathon to raise funds for local charities, raising thousands of dollars for various causes over the years. His commitment extends beyond personal achievement, making him a true icon of the Canberra running community.

Preparing for the 40th: Training and Challenges

Preparing for his 40th Canberra Marathon is no small feat. Bob's current training regime is rigorous, reflecting his commitment to this monumental challenge. He maintains a demanding weekly schedule, balancing long runs with intensive interval training. His dedication is inspirational.

• Weekly running schedule: Around 60km, incorporating speed work, hill training, and long distance runs.
• Specific training techniques: Interval training, hill repeats, and long slow distance runs are all part of his comprehensive approach.
• Physical challenges overcome: This year, a persistent knee niggle threatened to derail his training, but he has overcome this with the help of a physiotherapist and careful management of his training load.
• Support network: Bob credits his family, friends, and a dedicated running coach for providing unwavering support and motivation throughout his preparation.

The Canberra Marathon Route and Expectations

The Canberra Marathon route is renowned for its picturesque scenery and challenging hills. This year's race will take runners on a journey past iconic landmarks such as Lake Burley Griffin, Parliament House, and the Australian War Memorial. The expected weather forecast for race day is mild with sunny intervals. Despite the challenges, Bob is remarkably optimistic about his 40th run. While he’s not fixated on a specific time, his main goal is simply to complete the race – a goal in itself.

• Brief description of the Canberra Marathon route: The course winds its way around Lake Burley Griffin, showcasing Canberra’s stunning scenery.
• Expected weather forecast for race day: Mild temperatures with clear skies are anticipated.
• Fickel's personal goals for the race: To complete his 40th marathon, celebrating his enduring passion for the sport and the Canberra Marathon.
• Comments from Fickel on his chances this year: "This is less about the time and more about the journey. It's a celebration of 40 years of running the Canberra Marathon."

The Wider Canberra Marathon Event

The Canberra Marathon is more than just a race; it's a vibrant community event. This year, organizers anticipate over 10,000 participants, showcasing the enduring popularity of the event. The event draws runners of all ages and abilities. Beyond the marathon itself, there are numerous community events, adding to the lively atmosphere.

• Estimated number of participants: Over 10,000 runners are expected to participate this year.
• Notable participants besides Bob Fickel: Several elite runners and fundraising groups will also participate.
• Community events surrounding the marathon: A pre-race expo, post-race celebrations, and various family-friendly activities create a fun atmosphere for all.
• Overall atmosphere and excitement surrounding the event: The Canberra Marathon is a highly anticipated event, fostering a sense of community and shared achievement.

Conclusion

Bob Fickel's 40th Canberra Marathon represents an incredible feat of endurance and dedication to the sport. His journey highlights the spirit of the Canberra running community and the enduring appeal of the Canberra Marathon. This year's race promises to be a memorable one, and we'll be sure to bring you further updates on his progress and the race itself.

Call to Action: Follow the Canberra Times for more updates on Bob Fickel's 40th Canberra Marathon run and all the excitement surrounding this year's event! Keep up with all the news on the Canberra Marathon. #CanberraMarathon #BobFickel #CanberraRunning