Gold Coast Marathon Webinar - The Final Kick

Learn from leading Southern Cross University experts at this online event.

Join us for an exclusive online panel presented by Southern Cross University and the Gold Coast Marathon, where leading experts unpack the final elements of race readiness. From evidence‑based performance strategies and injury prevention to recovery, pacing, and mindset, this session is your practical guide to feeling prepared, confident, and ready to perform on race day at this year’s Gold Coast Marathon.

Date: Wednesday 3 June 2026

Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM AEST

Attendees will have the chance to ask questions and hear from speakers, including:

• Courtney Atkinson- Olympian, former professional triathlete, and co-host of the ‘In The Beginning’ podcast

• Bimbi Gray- Registered Osteopath and Southern Cross University Course Coordinator for Osteopathy

• Dr Chrissy Freer- Nutritionist, health author and Southern Cross University Clinical Trial Research Fellow

• Dr Chris Stevens- Southern Cross University Chair of Human Sciences and Rehabilitation

Speakers:

Courtney Atkinson, Olympian, Former Professional Triathlete and co-host of the ‘In The Beginning’ podcast

Courtney Atkinson is an Olympian and former professional triathlete who represented Australia at multiple Olympic Games. In recent years, he has returned to his childhood roots of running, with a strong focus on road and trail events, while building a career in media, content creation and endurance event delivery. He works with brands like Red Bull and co-hosts In The Beginning podcast, which explores performance, mindset and the evolving culture of endurance sport.

Bimbi Gray, Registered Osteopath, Teaching Scholar, and Course Coordinator for Osteopathy, Southern Cross University

Bimbi Gray is a proud Southern Cross University alumni, Registered Osteopath, Teaching Scholar, and the Course Coordinator for Osteopathy at Southern Cross University, currently completing a PhD by Publication. As an Early Career Researcher, her work focuses on the systematic integration of evidence-based practice and knowledge translation within clinical education. Outside of academia, Bimbi participates in trail and endurance running, having completed several ultramarathons both in Australia and internationally. She draws strength from the pacing analogy; applying the same discipline, steady endurance, and strategic focus required on the trails to the rigors of academic research and program leadership.

Dr Chrissy Freer, Clinical Trial Research Fellow, Southern Cross University

Dr Freer is a researcher, nutritionist and health author with over 20 years’ experience in the nutrition and health industry. Her work focuses on muscle health and how diet and exercise support body composition and long-term health. She’s passionate about practical strategies for healthy ageing and is a former keen marathon runner (before her knees had other ideas!).

Dr Chris Stevens, Chair of Human Sciences and Rehabilitation, Southern Cross University

Dr Chris Stevens is an Associate Professor of Sport and Exercise Science and the Chair of Human Sciences in the Faculty of Health at Southern Cross University. He is an Accredited Sports Scientist with Exercise and Sports Science Australia and the International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance Associate Editor. He has published over 50 peer-reviewed research articles, predominantly focused on improving endurance performance in hot conditions through the use of cooling strategies, heat acclimation training, and nutritional supplements. He has worked closely with elite race-walking athletes in their preparation for major championships, supporting them in implementing performance-enhancing strategies to give them an edge in their competition.

All are welcome to register, whether you are chasing your personal best or want to take the opportunity to gain valuable tips from leading exercise and sports science experts.