Clare de Salis prepares for Stawell Gift challenge

Date: 4th April 2025

Canberran Clare de Salis is a seasoned competitor who is eager to make her mark once again. With a successful season behind her including wins at the Lancefield Gift and the 70m at Bendigo, Clare reflects on her journey and the anticipation of racing in the iconic event.

“I’ve been training well and have had some good races, so overall have been pleased with the season. I’m grateful for the two wins I’ve had and have used setbacks and bad races as an opportunity to learn,” Clare shared, emphasizing her commitment to growth through both triumphs and challenges.

This year marks Clare’s fifth appearance at the Stawell Gift. Her near victory in 2022, where she finished as a runner-up to Carla Bull, fuels her determination. “Whilst it was disappointing to come so close and fall short of the win in 2022, I gave it my all on the day and was proud of my run in the final. Coming second has left me determined to go one place better,” she recalled.

For Clare, the Stawell Gift holds a unique allure. “I love the atmosphere of Stawell. It’s unique to other races, which keeps me coming back for more. I love the seriousness of it, where you feel the tension of every athlete there vying to make history and win a Stawell sash, but at the same time you’re out there to have fun,” she explained. Winning the Powercor Women’s Gift, to Clare, would be “an incredible achievement” and a dream realized to have her name in the history books.

Training in the ACT, Clare is guided by her coach, Nicole Berridge, who herself achieved third place in the Women’s Gift at Stawell last year. “We have a tight-knit squad, with my training partners including Nicole, Jonathan Kellett, and Amber Pensini, who are regular competitors on the pro running circuit. We work hard but also know how to keep training fun,” she describes, highlighting the supportive environment that fosters success.

Beyond her athletic pursuits, Clare balances her running career with two jobs: working as an Exercise Physiologist in a private clinic and serving as a Health & Fitness Advisor for a government organisation. “I enjoy training for athletics and look forward to seeing what the future holds for me,” she says when asked about her long-term commitment to the sport. “I’m definitely addicted to the thrill of pro running and seeing my hard work come together on race day,” she added.

With Easter approaching, Clare is optimistic about her chances. “I’m coming to Stawell prepared and race-ready, so will give it my best shot on the day. I know regardless of the result it will be an exciting weekend.”

The prospect of competing against notable athletes like Bree Masters and Chloe Mannix-Power excites Clare. “Both Bree and Chloe have achieved incredible feats in our sport, and I am looking forward to competing with them.”

Main photo: Mark Simmonds/Marked Moments

Below: Clare at the Lancefield Gift, Neil Jameson

 

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