Bondi Beauty Contributor Morgan Yuen has run 48 half marathons, and says running has changed every aspect of her life.
It all began when I was a 13-year-old girl struggling with my weight, and I laced up my first pair of running shoes.
Starting with a modest 600m run at a slow pace of 8:30 min/km, little did I know that this simple act would set the course for a transformative decade.
Initially, running was a chore. The burning lungs and aching muscles were enough to deter anyone. But as weeks turned into months, a shift occurred.
The once-dreaded activity began to feel less arduous. The initial goal of weight loss soon took a backseat to a newfound passion for the sport.
My first City2Surf in 2014 when I was 13 years old was a defining moment. The electric atmosphere, camaraderie, and sheer joy of running alongside thousands of people ignited a spark within me.
While I finished in a slow time of 3 hours and 2 minutes, the experience left an indelible mark. Determined to improve, I started running in 2015 for health and fitness.
Over the years, I’ve relentlessly pushed my limits, conquering 48 half-marathons with a personal best of 1 hour and 33 minutes since I started running 10 years ago.
My fastest City2Surf time, (10 years after my first race) of 1 hour and 3 minutes in 2023, reflects this journey of continuous growth.
Photo of Morgan Yuen in the City 2 Surf 2023
My eating habits have evolved alongside my running. While I still enjoy occasional treats, I’ve gradually shifted towards a more balanced diet with an emphasis on vegetables, lean protein, and reduced excessive carbohydrate intake.
This dietary adjustment has noticeably improved my performance on the runs. While my weight hasn’t drastically changed, I’ve lost that “baby fat,” a testament to years of consistent effort.
My family, especially my father – a four-time Boston Marathon qualifier – has been incredibly supportive throughout my running journey. Training with The Run Squad, a recreational running group coached by my high school coach, Warren Williams, has been invaluable.
He invited me to join after I finished the HSC, so I started in December 2019. At the time the group was only four months old, but I have not been with them for five years.
The camaraderie and shared passion within the group, and later with the UTS Run Club as well as the UTS Personal Growth Society have provided incredible motivation.
One of my most memorable moments was my first attempt at a full marathon (42.2km) during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2021. Each lap was 3.8km so I did 11 laps which totally 41, and then did an extra 400 metres to hit the full marathon distance of 42.2km.
My dad paced me, and finishing in 3 hours 39 minutes was an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. After every race, regardless of the outcome, I indulge in a well-deserved reward – a bit of junk food, a super cheesy margharita pizza and about 300ml of coke, and a long nap!
Pic caption: My dad paced me during my first unofficial marathon attempt in July 2021.
However, the past three years have been a rollercoaster. I’ve sustained four injuries, primarily due to overtraining, extreme weekly mileage increases, neglecting rest, and most importantly, the absence of strength training.
These setbacks have taught me valuable lessons about the importance of a balanced approach to training. I’ve now incorporated strength training twice a week into my routine, focusing on upper and lower body. This has significantly improved my running form, reduced the risk of injury, and enhanced my overall performance.
In 2025, I’m taking the next big step: the Gold Coast Marathon on 6 July will be my first official marathon attempt. I aim to break 3 hours 30 minutes with a combination of wise training and a more mindful approach to nutrition. This milestone marks a decade of running, a journey that began with a simple decision to get fit.
It’s a testament to the power of perseverance, the joy of setting goals, and the transformative nature of running.
Having just completed my second degree Bachelor of Music and Sound Design ( my first was a bachelor of Classical Music at the Australian Institute of Music) I now have more time to dedicate to my training and career.
I’m excited to focus on building my endurance and strength, and I’m confident that with consistent effort and a positive mindset, I can achieve my marathon goals.
The Impact of Running
Running has not only improved my physical health but has also had a profound impact on my mental well-being.
It’s my go-to stress reliever, a way to clear my head and find solace. The discipline and focus required for training have also translated into other areas of my life, making me more efficient and resilient.
One of the most rewarding aspects of running is the sense of community. I’ve met countless inspiring individuals, both fellow runners and volunteers, who have pushed me to be better. The support and encouragement I’ve received have been invaluable.
The Future of Running
Beyond the Gold Coast Marathon on 6th July 2025, I aspire to continue pushing my limits and exploring new challenges. Whether it’s tackling sub-90 minutes for half marathons or qualifying for the Boston Marathon this year, I’m eager to see where this journey takes me.
Running has become an integral part of who I am. It’s more than just a sport; it’s a lifestyle. As I continue to lace up my shoes, I’m grateful for the opportunity to inspire others to embrace the transformative power of running.
