Craig Bulmer

Interview with Craig Bulmer from October 2023

By Bianca Ratje

What inspired you to become an athletics coach and how has your personal journey in the sport shaped your coaching style and philosophy?

Craig has been fortunate to run the 6 major world marathons so the next step was to then use his corporate skills of training and development into a sport that I loved - running

What brings you the most enjoyment or satisfaction out of athletics coaching?

Craig loves seeing improvement - no matter what the level of runner. Craig has seen vast improvement in adults and kids and that makes him a happy coach.

A few years ago Craig had a young girl who was stressed about running her school carnival. They worked on technique and built her confidence. Recently Craig saw her and she was over the moon because instead of running last she ran 3rd last.

“I know that seems strange as a story but when you can affect a person's self confidence in such a positive way it’s pretty cool”.

Who and where are you coaching?

Craig is based in the Sutherland Shire.

Craig coaches adults primarily however as an Athletics Australia Coach he gets to coach the Sporting Schools Program in primary schools too.

In your experience what makes a great track and field athlete? What are some common traits you have observed in your athletes?

Craig thinks consistency is key to becoming a good athlete. “You have to love what you do, be prepared to listen and trust your coach”.

Craig has observed athletes that have a bit of hunger, and train that little bit harder, and they perform just that little bit better. They are willing to dig deep when the going is a bit tough.

What have your greatest successes been as a coach?

Craig’s greatest successes have been getting athletes to improve their marathon times. Almost every time he has an athlete work with him and the program he writes for them, they have PB’d or they finish so close to their goal time.

Do you work with any other coaches or have a support network?

Whilst Craig does not coach with an Athletics Club he is involved with Southside Masters, and is current the Event Director at Dolls Point parkrun

What do you hope is next for your coaching journey?

Craig is looking to set up a run group for kids that are not national runners and may never be. He wants to have a group that allows kids to enjoy running without the crazy pressure that many are putting kids through.

“I believe we can improve people's other sports through running. I want kids to run for life”.

Are you taking on new athletes?

Craig is happy to chat to new athletes. He is based in the Sutherland Shire and train at Sylvania Athletics Track NSW.

Jump onto Craig’s website www.southsiderunning.com.au or email him at info@southsiderunning.com.au