Toronto Waterfront Marathon: Coach Rob talks shop

Q: We saw your name on the start list for the Toronto Waterfront Marathon this upcoming weekend. We know you’ve been focusing a lot more on cycling recently; how do you think the ol’ cycling legs will hold up over the marathon distance?

A: Well, we’ll find out soon! I have actually dropped down to the ½ marathon distance. I simply haven’t had the ability to put in the volume necessary to run a decent marathon. That has nothing to do with cycling, it’s because I’ve had a bit of a bum hip for a while. That injury is what got me into cycling in the 1st place! As for cycling legs, we’ll see how they respond, but I definitely know that the aerobic and mental fitness is on point from cycling. Let’s hope the legs come around as well. 

Q: You set your best ever marathon time on this course back in 2013 (2:13:29); any expectations or goals for this race? 

A: Oh geez, at this point really I just want to get one a startline healthy and get to the finish line smiling. I’m hoping to use this event as a launching point to a more serious approach to run training again. I miss being fast. 

Q: For those new to racing the marathon on this course, any tips on how to best tackle the distance over this terrain? 

A: Even Steven all damn day. The 2nd half of the course is harder…that’s why I’m doing the half. Just kidding. But anyways, yeah the 1st ½ is rather straightforward and flat, so run even and save your legs for the rolling hills out at the beaches. From 25-35 km is where your race will be made or broken, make sure you get there with running in your legs.

Q: Toronto is a great city that you must know well after visiting over the years: any recommendations on the best pre-race running routes, go-to cafes, or post marathon beer spots?

A: I’d say to hit the waterfront for pre-run. It’s flat and rather nice down there. A big chunk of the course is on the waterfront so it can be good for visualization as well. I’m not too familiar with the culinary scene, but I do know that it is robust and there are a tonne of good options, so I’d suggest to check out some local independent spots. As for beer- after a marathon anywhere that serves beer is a good choice!

Q: We have a big group of M2M athletes racing this weekend across the ½ and full marathon. Any fun activities planned for the group?

A: We’ll certainly roll a pre-race shake-out on Saturday morning from the royal York. Thinking 9:30am for that, and then let’s grab a coffee after that! Post race…TBD

Q: Finally, we heard you’re going to be racing an Ironman soon. Which Ironman is that? We know your run and bike is great but how’s the swim coming along?!

A: Heck yeah! Much like the Toronto Waterfront I’m doing the half option. Gonna do Indian Wells on Dec 3rd. Yeah, the run and bike will be good, I hope. As for the swim- well let’s just say there is work to be done and I’m trying my best to do it! I’m gonna try to set a ½ ironman record for most people passed over the bike and run, because I reckon I’ll have some work to do after I drag my cold, wet carcass out of the water. 

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Good luck this weekend: We’ll all be cheering! 

Thank you!