Geelong Running Festival

Marathon Coaching 2026

PhD-level sport science coaching for busy athletes who want a calm, confident build to race day.

Train and Race with confidence.

Run the Geelong Running Festival marathon on an AIMS-certified course, along traffic-free streets that sweep past Kardinia Park, Corio Bay and the Eastern Beach foreshore, starting and finishing at Steampacket Gardens. I’ll guide you from where you are now to a smart, durable performance—without upending your life.

Why work with me?

  • PhD (Sport Science): evidence-based coaching grounded in endurance physiology, training load and communication science.

  • Applied, not theoretical: TrainingPeaks Level 2 Coach • AusTriathlon Development Coach • 7× Ironman finisher.

  • Human first: we use data (RPE, HR trends, session feedback) and coach the person, not just the file.

What you get

  • Weekly TrainingPeaks plan tailored around your work, family and recovery—updated every week.

  • 1× weekly check-in (video or message) + quick questions anytime.

  • Long-run structure & fuelling from week one (carb plan, gels, hydration).

  • Strength overlay (15–20 minutes, twice weekly) to build durability and reduce niggles.

  • Race plan & recon: pacing targets, nutrition, logistics and a simple, calm race-week playbook.

Who this suits

First-timers through to PB hunters (sub-4 → sub-3) who want clarity, accountability and a plan that flexes with real life.

Places + Timeline

Limited to 8 athletes to protect quality.

Build length: typically 12–20 weeks; we’ll size it to your base and goal.

Investment

From $85/week - minimum 4-week commitment. Founding rate available for the first three runners.

Apply today.
Tell me your goal time, current weekly km and longest run.

Testimonials

“I reduced my Ironman 70.3 PB by 50 minutes in less than 12 months with Leighton, and he coached me to my first Ironman finish”

Andrew Hyde

“Exceptional, personalised service. Leighton provides great insights and really knows what endurance training is all about. I reduced my Ironman 70.3 time by 40 minutes.”

Scott Hunter

“3rd place in the 50 to 59 age group at the Coolangatta Gold Surf Life Saving Championships. What more do you need to say.”

Wes Greene