In this Check-In 3 episode of the Delirious WEST 2026 series, I catch up with the wonderfully tough and straight-talking Sym Mercer – who is deep in the messy middle of training… with a not-so-cooperative hip.

Since we last spoke, Sym’s training took an unexpected turn after a big block led to a hospital visit, scans, bursitis, and a cyst that might be masking a stress fracture. Not ideal – especially with 13 weeks to the start line (less now!). But if there’s one thing Sym brings in spades, it’s attitude.

We talk about adjusting training on the fly – swapping running for gym, swimming, riding, paddling, and carefully reintroducing runs without blowing things up. There’s also a big focus on mindset: staying in motion when rest messes with your head, trusting the long game, and accepting that sometimes the goal is simply to get to the start line in one piece.

Sym also shares a behind-the-scenes look at planning the epic drive to WA, crew logistics, border biosecurity dramas (goodbye tomatoes and avocados 😅), FIFO work life, heat training in the Barkly, and why 13 weeks sounds manageable… but 92 days sounds terrifying.

This is a real, raw check-in about adapting, not quitting – and showing up even when the plan gets ripped up.

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You’ll hear: • What happens when a big training block backfires • Training around injury without losing momentum • Why doing nothing can be harder than training • Creative ways to maintain aerobic fitness when running is limited • Heat training advantages (even when you hate the cold) • Crew planning, road trips, and WA border food confiscations • The power of attitude when things don’t go to plan

One thing’s clear – Sym is getting to the start line. How she gets there? That’s the story we’re watching unfold.

Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387

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