🏃Quick Snapshot
- Who it’s for: Experienced endurance athletes (generally 20+)
- Focus: Track (1500m–5000m), road racing (5km–marathon), cross country
- Competition level: District and national competition
- Training style: Structured, high-volume, performance-focused
- Typical commitment: 6+ runs per week
- Progression from: Junior Endurance Squad or Senior Endurance Squad
🧠 About the Group
This is CAAC’s highest-level women’s endurance group, where training and attitude go hand in hand.
Led by coach Kara McKenzie-Tait, the squad follows structured, periodised training designed to bring athletes to peak performance for their key races. Within the group, athletes target a wide range of goals, from competitive track racing over 1500m through to sub-elite marathon performances.
Athletes compete regularly at district and national level across track, road, and cross country, representing the club at a consistently high standard throughout the year.
🏃 What Training Looks Like
Training is varied, purposeful, and consistent.
Athletes in this group typically follow a structured weekly programme built around:
- Interval sessions (track and road)
- Tempo and threshold runs
- Long runs
- Strength and conditioning work
- Race-specific preparation throughout the season
Sessions are designed as part of a wider plan, with training adapted across the year to reflect racing goals and competition phases.
Training takes place across a mix of environments, including track, road loops, and cross country terrain, ensuring athletes are prepared for all types of competition.
📈 Progression & Pathway
Athletes typically move into the Performance Endurance Squad after building a strong training base in the Junior Endurance Squad, or after progressing beyond the pace and structure of the Senior Endurance Squad.
From here, the focus shifts towards maximising individual potential, with athletes progressing to compete at higher levels across district and national competition. The group supports a wide range of ambitions, from personal bests to championship performance.
🧑🤝🧑 Culture & Atmosphere
While training is focused and demanding, the group has a strong and supportive culture.
Athletes train alongside others with similar commitment and goals, creating an environment that encourages consistency and progression. There’s a shared understanding of the work required — but also an appreciation for the social side of the sport.
Whether it’s supporting each other on race day or heading for a post-event meal or drink, the group balances performance with camaraderie.
🔗 Interested in Joining?
If you’re interested in joining CAAC:
👉 Visit our How to Join page
👉 Explore our other Training Groups to find the right fit.