FAQs

Team FatBird: Operation Kookaburra 2016
Frequently Asked Questions
Version 1.3 (23 Dec 2015)


About the Program:

What is Operation Kookaburra?

Operation Kookaburra is a 12-week marathon training program for runners to compete and complete the Gold Coast Airport Marathon (GCAM). It comprises of two weekday workouts and one weekend long run weekly.  Team FatBird will provide on-land group long run training every fortnightly for 5 weeks.



What is the RUN GOLD COAST package?
The RUN GOLD COAST (RGC) package is a specially put-together basket of travel and accomodation, GCAM race registration, with a  12-week training program and lead-up run that will facilitate the entire preparations and training for Singaporeans participating at GCAM 2016.


I did not register for GCAM 2016.  Can I still join Operation Kookaburra?

Priority registrations will be given to runners who are running the GCAM 2016.
You will be able to join the Ops Kookaburra Training Program by paying a training contribution of $120 if you have not signed up for the RUN GOLD COAST package.



I have just signed up for the RUN GOLD COAST (RGC) package.  How can I attend the Kookaburra training for free?
The first 40 sign-ups for the Run Gold Coast Package (by Tourism Queensland, Scenic Travel, Team FatBird) will get to participate in the Ops Kookaburra training and lead up runs for free.

What is the training program for Operation Kookaburra based on?

The training program is based on Team FatBird's FlightZONES Training System, incorporating heart-rate measurements and progressive paced running, and complemented with aspects of the Official Gold Coast Marathon Training Program. The sessions are conducted by a team of experienced Marathoners and Running Guides. 

Please refer to “Team FatBird’s FlightZONES Benefits Chart” under the Discussions tab in the Sunbird’s Nest for more information, accessible once you have successfully registered for the training program.


What does the Training Program cover?

The Ops Kookaburra Training Program comprises the following:
12-week Team FatBird (www.teamfatbird.com) FlightZONES™ Marathon Training Program:
-  Heart-Rate & Pace Training sessions.
-  Running Guides and Marshals showing the routes 
-  2 weekday runs & fortnightly weekend long run 
-  Experienced Marathoners and Running Guides leading and guiding the runs 
-  Advisory & Information on Running Techniques, Performance, Sports Nutrition 
Trainees meeting the attendance and performance criteria will receive eCertificates/Awards of Completion 
Isotonic drinks / refreshments post-runs



When does Ops Kookaburra training begin, and how many sessions are there?

Training is scheduled from April-June 2016, with the fortnightly weekend long run being on-the-ground training runs.  


Where can the trainees get detailed information on training schedules and access to the coach/training crew?

The Kookaburra’s Nest, a private training area has been set up to inform, update and share all training information. All registered trainees will be invited to join the Kookaburra’s Nest on Facebook.


I have submitted my registration, but have yet to receive any reply. Am I accepted into the training program?

Successful applicants will receive an email confirming their training slot and payment details (if required) within 7 days of their registration.  

Applications which are not successful will be put on waiting list, unless the applicant withdraws the application with a written note to training@teamfatbird.com.



Is it compulsory for me to attend all training sessions? What if I cannot attend some of them?

The training schedule serves as a guide for your training. While it is not compulsory to attend all training sessions, you are encouraged to attend as many training sessions as possible to gain maximum benefits out of Operation Kookaburra. 

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About the weekend runs:


When and where are the weekday/weekend runs held? What time do the runs start?

Please refer to the Training Schedule and “Operation Kookaburra Weekly Training Schedule” under the Discussions tab for more information.


Is there baggage deposit area at the meeting point?

There is baggage deposit area at the meeting point for trainees to store their belongings, however please refrain from storing valuables. Team FatBird will not be responsible for any loss or damaged items.


Are drinks / refreshments provided?

Drinks / refreshments are provided at the meeting point during on-the-ground training runs. There will not be drinks / refreshments stations provided along the running route, therefore bring your own hydration for the duration of the run.


Where do I find the route map for the runs?

There will be a route briefing prior to the start of the run, and there will be Running Guides and marshals showing the route during the run.

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About the race:


Will Team FatBird be pacers at GCAM 2016?

Team FatBird will not be providing pacing for GCAM 2016. There will be official pacers at the GCAM.  Do keep a lookout at the official GCAM website for more information.


Will there be a meetup for the Operation Kookaburra 2016 trainees during the Gold Coast Marathon event?

There are plans for a welcome carbo-loading dinner as well as meet-up points at the GCAM Race Expo, before race and after race.  More details will be released closer to the event date.