Excited but shy, sisters Ivy 6 and Isla 9 sat on their dad’s knees as we chatted about the Cladingboel family’s running achievements. The girls clearly share a special bond with their dad.
Running and events have become a part of life for the girls. Their mum Bec started running in events in 2014 and running is now a highlight for the whole family. When Bec registers for an event there’s often a shorter children’s event that the girls like to be part of.
They’ve ran in more events than they can remember – Castlemaine Run Bird Run, Shepparton Running Festival, Run Melbourne, Victor Harbour Triathlon Series and Echuca Moama Triathlon-Club Duathlon.
One of Isla’s first events was the Johnno’s Run 5km at Run Melbourne in 2017. Bec had already ran the half marathon then ran alongside Isla while she determinedly ran the 5kms.
They had so much fun that the next year Bec secretly signed up hubby, Nick, for Johnno’s Run 2018 so that both girls could participate. Ivy walked and ran with Nick and had a few piggy back rides around the 5km course! Isla ran again with her mum. In 2019 it was a family affair again – Bek and Isla’s 3rd year and Nick and Ivy’s 2nd. This year less piggy back rides were needed!
Nick’s introduction to running started with Johnno’s Run and just last month he went from 5kms to a and 50km trail run event at Bright. He had trained consistently, enjoying day trips to Bright with Bec. He just loved the whole experience. It’s now watch this space as I think Nick plans to continue seeking out even bigger challenges.
The girls also enjoy duathlons and triathlons and this year Isla came third in the under 14 age group Echuca Moama Triathlon Club junior championships. She didn’t want to be misleading and made sure I knew there were only 3 in the competition. She won the title and can be proud of it! Her commitment and integrity is impressive – after all she is only 9.
Ivy and Isla’s mum Bec has exceptional athletic talent. Last year she represented Australia in an Olympic distance triathlon on the Goldcoast. Bec’s journey is a story for later in the A – Z Running Sisters series.
Isla and Ivy have quiet natures. Isla loves to swim (it’s her strength) and both enjoy reading books. They have fantastic role models – with parents who set goals, work hard and share a love of the outdoors and a healthy life.
