It has been an eventful period lately, bridging my own athletic pursuits with some exciting developments on the professional front. From navigating challenging race conditions to seeing long-term research projects published, here is a quick update on what I’ve been up to.
Racing at the Australian Super Sprint Championships
I recently spent a really enjoyable weekend racing at the Australian Super Sprint Championships in Lake Macquarie. The field was highly competitive, and the conditions on the day were definitely challenging, but navigating those unpredictable elements is exactly what makes racing interesting.
I was fortunate to come away with a silver medal in my age group. Beyond the result, getting out there and competing serves as a practical reminder of how crucial consistent training, proper recovery, and a strict attention to the fundamentals really are. These aren't just concepts; they are the exact same principles I focus on when working with my clients, whether they are preparing for a specific event or simply looking to build foundational strength and confidence through everyday exercise. I’m very grateful for the experience and the incredibly supportive triathlon community that surrounds these events.
"Can Walk Can Run" Featured in AUSactive
On the research and coaching side, I was pleased to see some important work featured in this month’s AUSactive newsletter.
The feature highlights a paper I co-authored, recently published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health. The research, titled “The Development of Can Walk Can Run: A Walking and Running Program for People Living With and Beyond Cancer,” explores the creation of an exercise program specifically designed to support individuals navigating cancer.
Making physical activity accessible and safely structured for those who need it most is a core part of my practice, and it is rewarding to see this evidence-based program recognized by AUSactive. (You might even spot a familiar photo of me rowing if you scroll through the newsletter!).
Whether I am out on the course putting my own training to the test or contributing to research that makes exercise more accessible for vulnerable populations, the underlying philosophy remains the same: movement, grounded in solid fundamentals, is essential.
Catherine Ashley
