EP286: Big Cat Energy with Corinne & The Bendigo Frenzy
In episode 286 of the Better With Running podcast, coaches Chris Armstrong and Zacca Newman kick things off by reviewing their latest training blocks while reflecting on the explosive growth of the Bendigo running scene. Chris detailed a week of 73km, highlighted by a 25km long run in testing 80% humidity that left him "pretty cooked". He also shared a lesson in patience from his 10 x 400m track session; after feeling "tense" and struggling for rhythm in the first six reps, he consciously relaxed for the final four, finding that "all of a sudden, the pace came". Zacca, meanwhile, banked 91km for the week, featuring a 21km long run and a demanding "BT" fartlek session.
The episode takes a celebratory turn with the return of Corinne, a standout Run2PB athlete who has become a symbol of "Big Cat Energy" following a year of massive breakthroughs. With a 16-minute half-marathon PB and a blistering 48:54 10km at Ballarat under her belt, Corinne fresh off a return to racing, discusses her journey through injury management, emphasizing the importance of staying consistent and not getting "greedy" with training—a sentiment Chris echoed when describing his shift from "burying himself" in sessions to prioritizing long-term health.
As the "unofficial ambassador" for the Verve running store, Corinne joined the coaches for an essential "shoe chat," offering her perspective on the latest gear and the technical shifts in running footwear. The conversation also touched on her recent 10km run in Bendigo, where the local event saw record-breaking participation with over 3,000 runners. Chris shared his own experience from the weekend, where he acted as a "waiter service" pacer for fellow runner Mel, jokingly describing his role of grabbing drinks from the tables as not exactly "a la carte dining" but a rewarding way to support an athlete and friend.
The episode concludes with an in-depth preview of the Bendigo 5km Frenzy, which Chris describes as "fast, fun, and a little bit chaotic". With Elise and Andy on the mic commentating and races for all abilities it set to be a great night of racing.
Enter the Bendigo Frenzy:
https://www.athleticsbendigo.org.au/events/5k-frenzy-2026/
Partner Offer: By using the code Run2pb20 through the end of March, supporters of the podcast can grab 20% off their next kit upgrade. Go to www.oatrunning.com.au