Steve Moneghetti

Steve 'Mona' Moneghetti, AM, is celebrated as one of Australia's most accomplished marathon runners and a prominent figure in physical health consultancy. His illustrious career spans representing Australia at four Olympic Games, four Commonwealth Games, and six World Championships. Steve’s journey into running began unexpectedly; although initially discouraged from joining Little Athletics, he emerged as a standout endurance athlete during high school. He has run an incredible total of 22 marathons and finished in 11th place or higher in 20 of them.

Steve holds a degree in Civil Engineering, a Graduate Diploma in Education, and an honorary doctorate from the University of Ballarat. His athletic achievement are numerous, including winning gold at the 1994 Commonwealth Games Marathon, silver at the 1990 Commonwealth Games Marathon, and bronze at the 1986 Commonwealth Games Marathon. He also secured bronze at the 1998 Commonwealth Games 10km track event and finished fifth in the 10,000 metres at the 1986 Commonwealth Games.

A highlight of his marathon career includes victories at prestigious events such as the 1990 Berlin Marathon and the 1994 Tokyo International Marathon. Steve competed in marathons at the Olympic Games from 1988 to 2000, achieving top-ten finishes three times. Notable, he placed fifth in the marathon at the 1988 Seoul Olympics and finished 10th at the Sydney 2000 Olympics. Steve has also won four consecutive Zatopek 10km track races (1989-1992), setting a world age record in 2009 at the age of forty-six, as well as recently winning the Oceania Masters Athletics 50+ Cross Country title.

Beyond his competitive career, Steve continues to inspire as a motivational speaker, sharing insights from his life on the road. He emphasises the transformative power of running, advocating for its health benefits regardless of age. Steve remains actively involved in Australian athletics, engaging in public appearances, mentorship roles, and leadership in sports education initiatives.

In recognition of his contributions to athletics and mentorship, Steve was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2014. He has also been honoured with an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Ballarat and inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 2021. Steve’s dedication to promoting physical health and personal development is further exemplified by his roles as a consultant with the Ministry of Education and Chair of the Victorian Review into Physical and Sport Education in Schools.

Steve Moneghetti continues to champion the ethos of perseverance and achievement through his own remarkable journey, inspiring generations with his passion for running and dedication to community engagement. He speaks openly and honesty about his career as an Olympian as well as his personal struggles with ageing, to deliver a compelling presentation that captivates the entire audience. He explains how, with the right plan and a robust work ethic, one can accomplish feats beyond their wildest aspirations.