From Schaumburg to Sydney: Neal Patel on his Sydney Marathon Experience

Neal Patel - Sydney Marathon 2025

Neal Patel - CARA Training Spotlight

Neal Patel started his running journey in order to get healthier and has been with CARA Training at the Schaumburg site for the last three years. After beginning as a run/walker, he recently completed the Sydney Marathon. Neal gives advice on getting started in running, his most memorable experiences and what it is like to run on the iconic Sydney Harbor Bridge.

Q: Tell us about your running journey! How did you start running?

A: My running journey started after seeing my health struggles. I was so overweight, which caused concerns within my family. I made a firm decision to get healthy by exercising and eating healthier foods. In the beginning of my journey, I was doing a run/walk combination 4 to 5 days per week. After a few months of training, I was able to run without walking, which provided confidence that was much needed.

Schaumburg Training Site

Q: How long have you been involved with CARA Training programs?

A: 3 years.

Q: What is your favorite part about training with a CARA Group?

A: Learning valuable tips from experienced runners.

Q: What does running mean to you?

A: Running is my outlet from daily life struggles.

Q: Describe your most memorable training or racing experience

A: Running my first Chicago Marathon. I got to experience all the hype in person which was overwhelming, and seeing my wife on course cheering me on made my heart melt.

Q: What advice would you offer to a new runner or someone who wants to start running?

A: Join a local running club for weekly runs.

Q: Anyone you would like to thank or give kudos to that has helped you on your running journey?

A: I would like to thank my wife for being my biggest supporter. She is always encouraging me to get better as a runner and chase my goal of completing all the major marathons. I would also like to give kudos to the Schaumburg CARA runners to help me get better each year and allowing me to train with them.

Q: What is it like traveling so far for a race like Sydney?

A: Destination races are rather expensive! In addition to race registration fees, you’ll potentially be paying for airfare, accommodation, a rental car and food before and after the race. Furthermore, if you are visiting somewhere for the first time, you’ll likely want to splurge to see some of the popular sights and attractions. I have learned to keep the costs down by booking accommodations far in advance and thinking creatively about where we stay (which is sometimes a bit off the beaten path!). To keep costs down, we also bring our own snacks and often go to a local grocery store for other fueling needs.

Q: Take us through your race experience?

A: MY TOP FIVE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE SYDNEY MARATHON

• Running over (and then back under) the Sydney Harbor Bridge is an unforgettable experience

• The finish in front of the Opera House is one of the best finish lines in the world

• The 2025 finisher’s medal is one of the best marathon finish medals I have

• The event village after the race has an incredible view over the harbor, bridge and Opera House

• The city had a great atmosphere all weekend, and a lot of brilliant support on the course

Q: Where would you rank the Sydney Marathon with your other race experiences?

A: I would consider the Sydney marathon race as my favorite so far. I had doubts regarding overall finish time since the course was hilly, and I had not trained for hills at all. My performance and effort was very impressive.