This was published 7 years ago
Richard Davies: Things I learnt about Sydney running the City2Surf
By Richard Davies
Runners participate in the Sun Herald City2Surf, finishing at Bondi Beach after running the 14km course from the CBD.Credit: James Alcock
Richard Davies, from Avenues, New Zealand, will be running his 12th consecutive City2Surf in August.
The part time teacher and avocado grower talks to Traveller about the things he has learnt about Sydney running the City2Surf.
How much of Sydney do you get to see/experience during the run?
Eleven City2Surfs and counting: Richard Davies.
The run is fantastic as you get to see almost all of the city. You can see Rose Bay Harbour from Heart Break Hill, and then an amazing view along the top looking out toward the coast – it's great.
What is your favourite part on the run?
Looking back toward the Harbour and seeing the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. It certainly puts the run in perspective and gives you a sense of the space.
Thousands run down William Street during the City2Surf.Credit: Cole Bennetts
Why did you first decide to take part in the City2Surf?
My father died 12 years ago and so some of my old family friends in Sydney suggested I go and do the City2Surf. I enjoyed it so much, that it's now an annual thing now and means I'm able to catch up with the family friends as well.
Do you take time to explore the city before or after doing the City2Surf?
I usually look to spend around four days in Sydney. I always check out the web first to see what's on and look to book to go and see some shows or exhibitions. Otherwise, I do really enjoy just wandering around the rocks and grabbing a coffee.
What have you learnt about Sydney running in the City2Surf?
I have learnt that no matter how often you come to Sydney, there's always something you haven't seen or done. This visit, I'm really hoping to do the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb.
What most surprised you about Sydney?
Sydney is a big city, and in a big city nothing surprises you and nothing is weird! It's all about taking on life going on around you.
What have you learnt about Australians in the many years you have been running the City2Surf?
Australians are just like us Kiwis, there are all really friendly, outgoing people just like us. We're only separated by the Tasman so I think we have a lot in common.
Have you completed marathons or fun runs anywhere else in the world?
I've completed the Marathons in London (twice), New York, Paris, and the Rotorua Marathon in New Zealand three times. I've also completed the Round Rarotonga Road Race, climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, plus many other half-marathons and 10km races around the world.
The City2Surf compares very favourably – it is 14km so long enough to challenge, but also doable for anyone. The organisation is amazing - from the entertainment along the way, the buses back to Bondi Junction to the medals. The weather seems to be a perfect 20 degrees almost always. Most large marathons attract around 45,000, but the City2Surf's numbers are well into the 80,000s. It creates an amazing atmosphere.
This your 12th consecutive time running the City2Surf, why do you love running it so much?
I love running the City2Surf because of the atmosphere around the city of Sydney. It's a short-haul trip from New Zealand, and I always encourage friends to come over as well. It's a great talking point socially, the expo is also great beforehand and of course I'll be lining up to get medal number 12 this year!
For more information on how to register or to find out more about the 2016 event, visit www.city2surf.com.au
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