Brichacek bounds to Games debut

Laura Haddock

23 July 2014: Middle distance runner and University of Canberra alumna Emily Brichacek is on her mark to compete in the next Commonwealth Games, saying the hard work has finally paid off for her debut in the competition.

"Being selected in the team was a really special moment," Brichacek, 23, said. "I've been competing in athletics since I was 13 years old, so to think that all the hard work I have put in over the past 11 years has taken me to the other side of the world so I can represent my country is quite surreal."

Emily Brichacek in action (front). Photo: Inside Athletics

After taking out the 5,000m title at the Australian Athletics Championship earlier this year, Brichacek is now on demanding schedule ahead of the Games.   

"These events require a fair bit of endurance work as well as strength and speed for the finishing kick. Each week I spend around 25 hours training, and another 5-10 hours doing recovery, including ice baths, physiotherapy and massage."

Brichacek, who studied a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, said the support offered to athletes at the University of Canberra was a key factor in her decision to study at the University.

"I chose to study at the University of Canberra because the staff were extremely understanding when it came to my running commitments. Travelling for competitions often means that much of the course work needs to be completed online and I'm able to do that," she said.

A member of the University of Canberra's John Landy Talent Squad, Brichacek has found encouragement and advice of the squad and its leader, professor fellow Dick Telford (who has coached multiple Olympic and Commonwealth Games medalists) invaluable in the lead-up to the games.

"I attribute a lot of my success this year to the training I was able to complete with the John Landy Talent Squad and having people to run with pushed me in every session. Dick Telford was able to give both my long-time coach Ted Mclean and I invaluable advice in preparation for the Commonwealth Games," she said.

Other Commonwealth Games competitors from the University of Canberra include: Duke Didier in judo (alumnus), sprinter Melissa Breen (athlete in residence), weightlifter Kylie Lindbeck  (student), cyclist Gracie Elvin (student), hurdler Lauren Wells (alumna), Hockeyroos player Edwina Bone (alumna) rugby 7s player Tom Cusack (student) and athletics para athlete Richard Nicholson (alumnus).

The 20th Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland run from 23 July – 3 August 2014.