Joel’s relationship with running is deeply personal. After a previous disappointing race Joel was determined to make his next challenge count. He joined the coaching group and focused his training on the 2023 Kerikeri Half Marathon. Training for marathons and half marathons means a series of gruelling and intensive lactate threshold and long-distance training runs. However, from the moment he took the race lead his determination never wavered. Despite the race's uphill battles - both literal and mental, he held onto the lead, pushing through the discomfort with the simple promise that "it won’t hurt when it’s over." Joel crossed the finish line not only with a personal best but also as the unexpected winner. The victory wasn’t just a testament to his physical abilities and hours of training but also to his mental toughness and the unwavering belief that hard work pays off. Joel’s story is one of persistence, of listening to his gut, and of pushing beyond the limits to achieve something truly special.
Joel Bickers, a runner who proves that true success is about being better than you were yesterday.