Brendan Chases A Personal Best At UniSport Nationals Distance Running
Published Thu 03 Jul 2025
Brendan is one of four student-athletes representing the University of Adelaide at this year’s UniSport Distance Running event taking place within the Gold Coast Marathon from July 5-6 as he tackles the half-marathon (21km)
Brendan will compete in the half-marathon, alongside fellow students Bobby Cao who will be running a full marathon (42km), Harry McGregor running 10km, and Benjamin Whiting, who will also run a full marathon (42km). Together, they’ll represent the University of Adelaide.
For Brendan, a fifth-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery student, the opportunity to race on a national stage is both exciting and meaningful.
“It gives you a sense of pride representing the University and not just racing for myself.”
Brendan’s running journey only began late 2023.
“The end of 2023, soccer season finished and I was sitting around doing nothing and the weather was really nice so I decided to go for a run,” he said. “From there, I started getting more into it and it has grown into competing in long distance.”
Since then, he’s committed to a structured training plan, running four times a week and incorporating weight training and conditioning. Brendan says it can be busy, whilst also juggling study and a social life, but sticking with a routine holds him in good stead come race day.
“I try to get all my training done first thing in the morning which gives me time the rest of the day to focus on my uni work and catch up with friends.”
Originally from Melbourne, Brendan said sport helped him settle into university life when he first moved to Adelaide. Having played for the Adelaide University Soccer, Hockey & Tennis clubs, Brendan found an avenue to make new friends before university started. He says it has also been a chance to branch out, make new friends, and be fit and healthy in the process.
Brendan is aiming to finally break the 1 hour 35 minute barrier for the Half-Marathon—a mark he’s just missed before.
“The closest I’ve been was 1:35:26, so I’m hoping I can best it this time around.”
His proudest moment so far? Running the Melbourne Marathon and finishing at the iconic MCG.
“I wasn’t expecting to run it too. Being able to finish that race on the MCG was pretty cool.”
After Nationals, Brendan plans to race in the Sydney and Melbourne marathons later this year, chasing new personal bests.
We wish Brendan, Richard, and Benjamin all the best this weekend. Stay up-to-date on all news and results here or follow us on our socials below.
