When you’re sitting at your desk waiting for 5pm to tick over, it’s only natural for thoughts of white sandy beaches and tropical sunshine to come creeping in.
So when pro runner Heidi See was given the opportunity to leave the Sydney winter behind and enjoy a weekend escape on the Sunshine Coast, she jumped at the chance.
The Sydney local recently visited the region with her husband Jeff See to unwind in the sun and take part in the 7 Sunshine Coast Marathon, the pair enjoying all the region has to offer from their base at Mantra Mooloolaba Beach.
To make the most of their weekend Heidi and Jeff took to the skies with Paradise Seaplanes, taking in a bird’s eye view of the stunning coastline.
The plane, which is the only Wilga 80 seaplane in the southern hemisphere, takes off from Maroochy River. And for those feeling adventurous, you can even choose to fly with the doors off.
With their bearings set the pair then paid a visit to Wildlife HQ, located at the iconic Big Pineapple, before taking in the relaxed dining scene with lunches at Cotton Tree’s The Boat Shed and Ricks Garage in Palmwoods.
While on the Coast Heidi continued her training for the half-marathon at the University of the Sunshine Coast’s Sports Precinct, otherwise known as her “happy place”.
She also took the opportunity to mix it up, and paired her regular routine with early morning sessions on the sand.
“Who needs a break from the winter training grind with a trip up to Queensland?” she said.
But what she didn’t count on was how the Coast’s relaxed lifestyle would affect her finishing time.
Posting to Instagram post-marathon Heidi said she “got a little too caught up in the Visit Sunshine Coast atmosphere”. But luckily it worked in her favour.
“I ran more than four minutes quicker than I planned today,” she said of her half-marathon effort.
“It’s hard not to get rolling with such an amazing vibe.”
They may have only visited for a weekend, but the Sunshine Coast left a lasting impression on Heidi and Jeff.
“Can this be my current mood forever please?,” Heidi captioned a picture of her lazing on Mooloolaba beach.
“Less than 12 hours later Jeff is back at the office and I'm back in the gym, but we will surely be dreaming about our sunny getaway for a while.”
About Heidi See
Heidi See is a professional middle-distance runner, whose accolades include competing in the World Championships where she represented Australia. Running aside, the talented creative founded her website heidandseek.com where she shares information on fashion, food and fitness. She also runs her own business, Boho Kitty, a luxe accessories line.
