One of the Gold Coast’s most treasured and respected musicians Casey Barnes will put down his guitar and strap on a pair of joggers when he attempts his debut Gold Coast Airport Marathon this July.

The critically acclaimed musician and former Australian Idol finalist admits the Gold Coast Airport Marathon has always intrigued him and he is confident he can conquer the physical and mental barriers set by the 42.195 kilometre challenge.

“The Gold Coast Airport Marathon is something that I’ve always wanted to do,” Casey said.

“I wanted a goal that would drive me both physically and mentally as well as push me outside of my comfort zone.

“To do that in my hometown along the beach front and surrounded by some of the best scenery in Australia is really exciting.”

Casey is currently squeezing his marathon training program in-between touring and promoting two new singles ‘Valentine’ and ‘Flesh & Bone’ as well as his latest EP set for release this June.

“It’s been pretty challenging fitting in the training around my hectic schedule of touring which can be very unpredictable with opportunities to perform around Australia coming in at the last minute,” Casey said.

“I’ve learnt to fit in running whenever I can. Lately I’ve been lucky to fit in two to three runs per week including a long run, around the 21 kilometre mark, on weekends.”

The 35-year-old’s passion for running came through an unfortunate incident playing Australian rules football in which he required an ankle reconstruction.

“I had a substantial ankle injury a couple of years ago which set me back and disallowed me from playing football ever again,” Casey said.

“The injury led me to running which was part of my rehabilitation process.

“Running has become a chance for me to get into my own head space and listen to music which has assisted me to increase my distance over time.”

Since committing to the event, Casey has been flooded with support from friends and family including a handful of local Gold Coast runners who’ve been happy to share marathon training tips.

“My wife and two daughters have been extremely supportive and understanding of my training and the importance of going for a run to zone out from everyday stress,” Casey said.

“I also often cross paths with other running friends such as former rugby league legend and current triathlete Mat Rogers who often sends me messages of support and advice.”

Casey’s new single ‘Flesh & Bone’ is now available on iTunes.

For more information about Casey Barnes please visit caseybarnes.com.au.

The Gold Coast Airport Marathon will be held on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 July in one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world in Queensland, Australia.

It is set to attract more than 30,000 participants of all ages and abilities across a number of events including the Gold Coast Airport Marathon, Wheelchair Marathon, ASICS Half Marathon, Wheelchair 15km, Southern Cross University 10km Run, Suncorp Bank 5.7km Challenge and Junior Dash 4km & 2km races.

For more information or to enter visit www.goldcoastmarathon.com.au.