"Put On a Hype Song and Go": The Sydney Coastal Run Content Creator Julia McMorrow Swears By
From sunrise runs to a 160km ultra on the horizon, Julia McMorrow shares the Sydney route, coffee stops and running essentials that keep her moving.
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When it comes to running routes, Sydney is spoilt for choice. But few are as hard to beat as a sunrise run along the coastline. For content creator, runner and golfer Julia McMorrow, her local beachfront route is hard to beat.
After running her first marathon just days after losing her father in 2023, Julia has now run multiple races, smashed her PB time and time again, and forged a career out of sharing her passions for sports. Ahead, Julia divulges her favourite Sydney route, post-run coffee order and running essentials, including the adidas Hyperboost.
When you're clocking up serious kilometres, a good running shoe can make all the difference. The adidas Hyperboost is designed to deliver hyper cushioning, hyper energy, and a hyper-light feel to every run, combining performance-focused innovation with a style-forward approach.
So, how did a former school cross-country runner end up taking on 160-kilometre ultras? Read on below to find out.
CP: How did you get into the sport and how long have you been running for?
Julia: I was doing cross country back in school, non-competitively, and then once I finished up high school I met some friends who were into running more competitively. I honestly haven't looked back. I ran my first marathon days after losing my dad back in 2023, and since then running has been a big part of who I am. I've been running for a good five years now.
What do you enjoy most about the sport and running community?
The people. I've met some amazing people through running, at races, parkruns, wherever. And on race day it's so much more than just getting it done. There's a real emotional side to
it. You're out there next to someone pushing through something personal, and you feel that energy. There's something special about that.
You're also a golfer. How is running different to golf (outside of the obvious!)?
I'm loving the journey I'm on with golf. They both keep you outdoors, which I love, but they're so different. Golf for me is social. I love getting out there with friends and having a hit.
Running is the opposite. I'm very much a lace-up-and-go solo person the majority of the time. The hard part is finding time for both whilst working full time. I clearly had to choose the most time-consuming sports. After my Miler at the end of the year, you best believe I'll be picking golf up a whole lot more.
What is your favourite running route in Sydney and why?
My favourite running route has got to be the coastal run, which is pretty much on my doorstep. I've been blessed to have grown up in such a beautiful place and it doesn't get better than catching a sunrise on that route before work. Despite the elevation and stairs, it's a run you've got to do if you're ever coming to Sydney. Clovelly to Bondi and back, or if you want to go longer, run from Coogee.
Do you have a go-to cafe you hit up in Sydney post-run?
I love Cut Lunch Deli; their coffee is goated. Otherwise, The Depot in Bondi is awesome. You can't go wrong with a good flat white with honey after a run.
You just completed the Sydney Marathon. What's the next running goal you're working towards?
That was a big race. I PB'd by over 22 minutes from when I did it back in 2024 and was on track for a sub-3 until I wasn't! Next year perhaps. But my A race is Kosciuszko Ultra (KosciMiler), which is a few months away now in late November. It's 160km. Kind of a big deal, since my longest to date was 100km last year at Kosci as well. We're going back to tackle the big one.
What makes a great running shoe?
In a race, if a shoe makes my legs move faster than they can, then I'm sold. As for an everyday shoe, secure fit, cushion, and stability is what I look out for. And also colour! I love bright colours.
What outfit items do beginner runners need in their wardrobe?
A good pair of headphones, a Garmin, anti-blister socks, and something you feel comfortable in. You always come back to the basics.
Do you run with music/podcasts, or prefer silence?
100 per cent, music. You won't find me running without it.
What are your top three running non-negotiables?
Electrolytes post-run, all the way. I personally swear by Hyro, hydration is imperative. A good pair of runners and fuel. Especially for long runs, I always have my Maple Movement gels on me.
If you could offer advice to runners early on in their journeys, what would it be and why?
Have a goal and work towards it. Whether that's a 5k or an ultra, having something to work towards gives you purpose and something to look forward to. And I always remind myself:
you only regret the runs you don't do. On the days you don't feel like it, put on a hype song and go.
Run Hyper with Hyperboost.
Image Credit: Josh Mullins
