DR CLAIRE Goodman 42, affectionately known as Dr Claire, is a busy person who gets things done.
A country girl at heart, Claire grew up in Bairnsdale.
She has fond memories of the time her family planted a paddock of gherkins when she was in Year 12, to help fund her way through uni.
She headed off to uni in the 90s to study medicine.
Spending the summer picking gherkins made her appreciate the opportunity she was given.
As a rural GP obstetrician and a triathlete with two young kids, Claire crams in around four-and-a-half hours of exercise each week.
She’s well supported by her husband, Matt, who values a healthy lifestyle.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, another important part of her week was Thursday night trivia.
Dr Claire joined the Echuca Moama Tri Club in 2014.
This took courage, but she soon realised she shouldn’t have been afraid, as the group was so supportive.
She recalls her first Splash n Dash event, in which she left first and finished last.
At the end of the season she proudly won the “most improved” award.
An exciting time in her life was her appearance on TV show The Chase in 2016.
She auditioned when her son Ed was five weeks old, then dedicated several weeks to studying trivia.
She memorised list after list, learning US presidents and states, Star Wars plots, soundtracks and much more.
Her preparation paid off and she was the star of the team, playing for $34,000 in the final Chase against the Beast.
It was a brief moment of fame, but sadly, no cash was won.
Dr Claire has put a lot of effort into running over the past five years and ran her first marathon at 40, achieving sub four hours.
She has several proud running moments, but the one that tops them all was on All Saints Day at her daughter’s School Mass.
A video screening caused a teary moment when five-year-old Audrey likened her mum to St Brigid, explaining that she helps people who are sick and raises money for people who need it by doing “big races”.
Running is a time when Claire plans her future runs, and let’s everything else out of her head.
Competitive by nature, planning a personal best or finishing ahead of a colleague is always a high priority.
Dr Claire has a vibrant personality and loves to stand out in a crowd.
She takes pride in her running “costumes” whether it is distinctive long socks or bright head scarves.
Dr Claire is continuing to train as if all events are still on while “locked down” to remain motivated.
It’s going well so far and in her words is “keeping her sane... just.”
Most importantly, Dr Claire feels fitter in her 40s than ever before.
Well done Dr Claire – you’re an inspiration, great role model and keep us all smiling.
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