Michele Allison: From Boston Marathons to Kona Triumphs

Michele Allison, a seasoned runner and triathlete, continues to excel in her athletic pursuits, recently clinching victory in the 70-74 age division at the Kona Ironman held in October. Since beginning her running journey in 1981, she has participated in numerous prestigious events, including the Boston and New York marathons, showcasing her commitment and passion for endurance sports.

Residing in Karori, Wellington, Allison admits that the city’s cooler climate does not suit her preference for warmth. Nonetheless, she appreciates Wellington’s unique offerings. “It would be perfect if it was situated about 20 degrees further up the globe,” she quips.

Running Routes and Training Insights

Allison’s favorite training route is the Mākara circuit, a challenging 33-kilometer course that features hills, countryside, and stunning views. While she does not run it as frequently now, she recalls many enjoyable training days with friends in preparation for marathons. For swimming, she recommends a race to the lighthouse in the harbour, which covers approximately 2.4 kilometers. “I love swimming on the foreshore at Lake Taupō,” she adds, relishing the clear water and warmer temperatures compared to Wellington’s harbour.

After a rigorous training session, Allison and her fellow athletes often indulge in cheese scones at Rex Tremendous, a cafe near the zoo. “I would be happy to skip the track and head straight to the café,” she remarks, emphasizing the importance of refueling after exercise.

Allison also enjoys sharing Wellington’s scenic views with visitors, often taking them up Wrights Hill to appreciate the landscape and historic gun emplacements.

Adapting to Wellington’s Conditions

When it comes to running in Wellington, Allison advises athletes to consider the wind when choosing their routes. “There are lots of routes in the Western hills for that pesky Norwester,” she explains, highlighting the need for strategic planning. For those who prefer off-road running, she notes that Wellington offers an extensive network of tracks suitable for hours of exploration without repetition.

On days designated for rest, Allison stays active by gardening, repairing training gear, and biking around the bays with her grandchildren. She shares her approach to training, which she calls the “window training method.” This flexible routine allows her to assess the weather each morning and decide whether to run outside or opt for indoor cycling or swimming sessions.

Allison’s eating habits have also evolved. She prefers preparing her own meals over dining out, often whipping up nutritious dishes like protein pikelets or scrambled eggs with bacon from home-grown sources.

As an experienced athlete, Allison remains candid about her training philosophy. She incorporates a mix of tempo and faster sessions into her weekly routine, ensuring her workouts remain straightforward and enjoyable.

Reflecting on her competitive spirit, Allison acknowledges the emotions she experiences upon crossing the finish line. “How glad I am that it’s over,” she states, noting the mix of joy and disappointment that can accompany personal bests.

Advocating for Better Cycling Infrastructure

With a deep commitment to her community, Allison has strong opinions on local cycling infrastructure. If given the opportunity to lead as mayor for a week, she would advocate for improvements to the cycling lanes around the bays. “The cycle lane should be for kids and recreation,” she asserts, expressing concern over safety for families cycling in the area.

Allison believes the current design lacks sufficient space for training cyclists, suggesting a narrower lane for recreational cyclists and a dedicated lane for more serious riders. “Wellington is not exactly a cycle-friendly town,” she concludes, emphasizing the need for thoughtful infrastructure that accommodates both casual and competitive cyclists.

Through her athletic achievements and community engagement, Michele Allison continues to inspire not only fellow athletes but also the broader Wellington community. Her story is a testament to the enduring spirit of those who pursue their passions, regardless of age or circumstance.