The Student Chronicles

*EXCLUSIVE*

Carrie Wallis and Clarke Bull to run the Sydney Marathon!

The Sydney Marathon is one of the most prestigious marathon events in the world, only just being announced as the seventh Abbott World Marathon Major last year. It’s expected to bring in 35,000 participants, including many elite athletes from all over the world. But two stand out participants for 2025 will be our very own Principal, Carrie Wallis and IT staff member, Clarke Bull! 

This week, I sat down to ask Ms Wallis about why she is participating in this event.  "I first remember going for my first ever run around the block after my oldest son was born. I used to swim a lot, and then I started running just to get out of the house when he was a baby. He’s 22 now. So, I’ve been running ever since" she told me.

The small act of just trying to get out of the house eventually turned into something more as she developed a strong love for running, eventually influencing her to compete in two marathons in 2011 and 2013. Since then, she has been itching to compete in another one. 

With its rising popularity and beautiful landmarks, the Sydney Marathon naturally became her next target. “I think it’s a pretty spectacular city. And the thought of being able to run across the Harbour Bridge and then finish at the Opera House is pretty iconic.”

So how does Ms. Wallis keep up? Easy, a goal driven mindset. “I’ve been trying to increase my pace, so I’d like to run around 3 hours 30 which would mean that I’m running 5-minute k’s.” 

Despite her apprehension around running alongside professional athletes, to her, running is more than just a physical activity, it’s something that gets your endorphins going and gives you clarity of thought. More prominently however, running helps to improve your mental strength and ability to persevere through challenging times. 

Ms Wallis and Clarke will run the Sydney Marathon on Sunday the 31st of August! Here is a flyover of the course they will run:

You can show your support by sending them a Teams message or email and don't forget to tune in to watch the free live broadcast of the race on 7mate or 7plusSport.

We wish Ms Wallis and Clarke all the best for a successful Marathon and we look forward to interviewing both Ms Wallis and Clarke after the event for the next edition of The Student Chronicles.

Destiny Williams

The Student Chronicles

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