By Aydee Bigaton

Running Dads Oz, an Australian online community for men who support, encourage and motivate each other through running, will make their team debut at this weekend’s Gold Coast Airport Marathon.

The team consists of participants of all ages and abilities from across the country who’ll be racing in either the Gold Coast Airport Marathon, ASICS Half Marathon or Southern Cross University 10km Run.

Team manager Adrian O’Brien said the Gold Coast Airport Marathon was ideal for his team’s debut due to the event’s supportive atmosphere, beautiful location and stunning course which hugs the iconic Broadwater and sparkling surf beaches.

“We have been a group for over a year and I thought the Gold Coast Airport Marathon would be the perfect place to hold our first official Running Dads Oz get-together,” Adrian said.

“It is an event where some of us can run our first marathon and be surrounded and supported by other members of the group and enjoy the electric atmosphere the Gold Coast provides.

“I’m excited about our first official event and organising a team tent in the Race Precinct, but I’m also nervous about running my first marathon.”

Adrian established Running Dads Oz in 2015 after his wife Amanda asked him to join her on a few training runs in preparation for the New York City Marathon. Having led an inactive lifestyle for several years after leaving the army, Adrian was reluctant.

Once he started however, it did not take long for Adrian’s passion for running to ignite. He took the opportunity to encourage other men to express and challenge themselves through the sport.

Adrian is expecting the Gold Coast Airport Marathon to be a great experience for those attending and is excited about running his debut marathon with the support of his family and team mates.

“Our team doesn’t have a running goal except to recruit as many members as we can,” he said.

“We are hoping to have a huge group of people cheering us on over the weekend.”

Adrian encourages running enthusiasts who are yet to participate in a marathon to put their uncertainties aside and go for it.

“Push your boundaries, leave your comfort zone and do something that you will remember for the rest of your life,” Adrian said.

“Accomplish a feat which only a small percentage of people have attempted and you’ll forever be a marathoner!”

Gold Coast Airport Marathon entries close Friday 1 July 2016 (8pm QLD).