The Hidden Handbrake

Home | news | The Hidden Handbrake


By Alex Hartmann

Have you ever given something everything you had and expected something amazing to happen, only to unknowingly sabotage yourself and your success? That was essentially my 2019 season in a nutshell.

Actually, if I look back on it and be brutally honest with myself, that’s been every season since the 2016 Rio Olympics.

I had it in my mind that the 2016 Rio Olympic Games would change my life. I’d finally get a couple sponsors, make a little money and would be able to help provide for my family and those around me. I truly believed I was unstoppable.

None of that happened.

Instead, after being run out in the heats of the 200m, I sat by myself on the side of the pool in the village and cried for the first time in years. I had failed. I’d let myself down and I’d let everyone around me down. The unstoppable me had been crushed, completely.

TO READ MORE OF THIS ARTICLE FROM ALEX, SUBSCRIBE TO RUNNERS TRIBE HERE

Official Australian Athletics Cross Country Championships Ballarat 2026 merchandise banner — apparel and caps on sale now.
Promotional banner advertising official Cross Country Championships merchandise on sale now, showing a hoodie, jersey, cap and beanie with cross country logos.

The Golden 5km Entries Open

Run on the official Australian Cross Country Championships course, prior to the action kicking off later in the day. Open to all ages and abilities!
Find Out More

Major Partners

Keep up to date with the latest news

Join the community

We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land upon which we run, jump, throw, walk and roll. We pay our respects to Elders past and present and acknowledge the significant contribution that First Nations people have and continue to make to athletics in Australia.
Australian Athletics is proudly supported by the Australian Sports Commission.
Copyright © 2026 Australian Athletics. All Rights Reserved.
Join the Community