In focus: Anthony Minichiello, NRL star and City2Surf 2017 Ambassador

Exclusively for Herald subscribers, we took ten minutes with former Sydney Roosters star and City2Surf 2017 Ambassador, Anthony Minichiello, to talk about the upcoming fun run and his training tips.

This year, we’ll be offering subscribers free massages post run to help recharge tired legs. Plus, if you’re planning to visit this year’s CITYFIT Expo to collect your City2Surf race bib, do stop by the Subscriber Recharge Hub and enjoy a free coffee and wifi on us! Click here for more information.

This is your first ever City2Surf run. What made you participate this year?

Anthony Minichiello: I have always loved the event. It creates a really good atmosphere and has been on my bucket list for a long time, but I haven’t had a chance to participate due to my footy schedule. Earlier this year I put a circle around the 13th of August to make sure I would be in Sydney and could get involved.

Are your friends and family running with you?

AM: Yes, my wife Terri and daughter Azura are doing it with me. We’ve got a group of friends together as well, so it’s going to be a lot of fun.

What makes City2Surf so special and how do you think you’ll go?

AM: City2Surf has a huge community feel about it, which I love. You’ve got all different categories as well – elite runners, people who want to run under 70 minutes, those who dress up, families, kids etc – so it caters for everyone. Add in a fun, carnival atmosphere from Hyde Park all the way to Bondi Beach and it’s a no brainer, everyone has a good time.

Is running part of your routine?

AM: Yes and no. I did a lot of running over the course of my career, so in retirement I predominantly stick to the gym. Running is a big part of my MiniFit programs though, so in the school holidays my running load increases as I train the kids.

What’s your best training tip for the run?

AM: Put in the work to create an aerobic base, but stick to your limits. Don’t try to exhaust yourself, it’s important to have fun and enjoy the day.

Have you given yourself a target finish time?

AM: Not yet. Because I’m participating with my three year old daughter, we’ll have the pram with us. I’ll most likely do a bit of running and a bit of walking – I’ll be with a group so ideally we’ll all be together from start to finish.

What are your plans after finishing the run?

AM: We’ll probably get our group together for some lunch and soak in the atmosphere. There is also an official function afterwards at Bondi which I’ll be attending – I am looking forward to mingling with all of the participants and sharing our experiences on the day.

Read our coverage of Anthony’s City2Surf story here.

There’s still time to participate and be part of the world’s largest fun run. Click here if you’d like to register for City2Surf 2017.