Running a marathon is no easy feat. It's not just a test of physical fitness, it takes a huge amount of mental endurance. With roughly 1.1 million people running a marathon in the world each year, less than 1% of the population can boast that that they've completed the 41.2km distance. There's an increasing number of marathon races on offer, with people travelling across the world to complete races. Sydney Marathon has just joined Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago and New York as an Abbott World Marathon Major.

New Balance offered two lucky winners from the Runlimited community an all-expenses covered trip to NYC Marathon. Our winners, Anthony and Isla spent the weekend, and raced the marathon, as part of the New Balance team.

We caught up with Anthony Roache, to chat about his experience, running background and what's next for him.

Can you introduce yourself in one line?

I’m interested in doing things I think I can’t do.

When and why did you start running?

I started running during the first lockdown. At the time, I was heavily into jiu-jitsu, but the dojo kept opening and closing. I needed something consistent—something that would always be there for me when I needed it. That something turned out to be running.

How did you find the training for the NYC marathon? What did you enjoy the most, and what did you find hardest?

I think this was the most effort I’ve ever put into a training block. It’s amazing to feel your fitness improve and see your body change over time—it’s a clear sign that I’m on the right track, and I really enjoyed that. The hardest part of training is balancing it with family life, but thankfully, I have an incredible support system.

What’s your pre race routine?

I’m naturally quiet and reserved in person, but that seems to intensify even more before a race. I retreat into myself, talking myself into race mode and locking in for game time. It’s always me against me.

What kit did you train and race in?

I did most of my runs in the New Balance 1080s and used the Adidas Boston 12s for my speed sessions. On race day, I wore the New Balance Supercomp Elites, and I was really impressed with them. It was my first time ever racing in a carbon-plated shoe, and it didn’t disappoint.

You had a special weekend in NYC with the New Balance team - can you tell us a bit more about the experience.

It felt surreal until my feet touched the start line. I was so grateful for the experience, but much of it felt like an out-of-body moment—with all the photoshoots, content creation, and it being my first time in New York. Truly, it’s the stuff dreams are made of.

You achieved an incredible time, can you share a bit about how you felt during and after the race?

As tough as the course was, I enjoyed every minute of it. I was lucky enough to meet Leon along the way—he carried me through part of the race. On the final stretch, I found myself pacing with a random guy named Jay. We pushed each other to the finish, and he helped me so much. We hugged it out at the end—what a moment.

What’s your favourite New Balance shoe and why?

The 1080s are a solid choice. They’re the perfect daily trainer—not specifically built for speed, but they make it easy to pick up the pace when you need to. They’re well-constructed, and honestly, I can’t think of anything bad to say about them.

What’s your next goal?

2:45 at London if god allows it.

Photography: Adrian Varzaru