RUNNING SCIENCE
MEET THE TEAM
CEO
Jonathan Fletcher
Fletch is the owner of Running Science but doesn’t like being called the boss. He’s a collaborative leader, striving to make the business a better place for his team. Using his intellect and creativity, he’s built a business that’s best-in-class. He loves reading, meditating, and listening to and making music and gets a kick out of challenging the status quo.
Sports podiatrist
Phil de Mestre
Phil’s been running our clinic since doors opened and consulting as a qualified clinician since 2007, including at the highly-regarded North Sydney Sports Medicine Centre. He’s worked with some of the country’s best sports physicians. Personal interests include running, golf and rugby and he’s a competitive distance runner, with a marathon PB of 2:47 and 1:16 half-marathon.
Lead physiotherapist
Diarmaid Donohoe
Diarmaid earned his Masters in London. He’s experienced in elite sports, including Premier League academy football and treating injured soldiers for the UK Ministry of Defence. A certified strength and conditioning specialist, Diarmaid is passionate about health and fitness and participates in CrossFit, running, swimming and Gaelic football.
Physiotherapist
Byron Michalandos
With a Doctor of Physiotherapy from Macquarie University, Byron treats both elite and recreational athletes using the latest research and tech for accurate diagnosis and treatment. He combines hands-on techniques with customised xercise therapy. Out of work, Byron is a football fanatic, playing regularly and supporting the mighty Arsenal.
Store manager
Tamra Santucci
National open water swimmer turned triathlete, Tamra is passionate about all things sport, movement and helping you to take charge of your health in a way that feels good. She has a degree in sports management, a Cert III & IV in fitness and is ready to welcome you in store with a warm, friendly smile.
Shoe fitter
Sam Lydon
An avid soccer player and middle-distance athlete, Sam is currently training for a triathlon. He works with runners, walkers and other athletes to make their fitness and sporting journeys more productive, fun and injury-free by matching a shoe to the person rather than the other way round.
Athletics coach & shoe fitter
Chris Jefferis
In his younger days, Chris was a state/territory champion in the 400m (ACT, NSW relays) and 800m (ACT). Chris is also an academic with a PhD in Economics (Political Economy) from the University of Sydney and has published books and articles in his field as well as historical research on the culture of athletics training in Australia in the 1950s and 1960s.
Shoe fitter
Jonathan Meaker
National middle distance runner and shoe enthusiast, Jono loves helping people find their perfect shoe. He believes that everyone, from professionals to casual joggers, should be able to enjoy running with the confidence that they’re wearing the right shoes for them. He’s grateful to contribute to Sydney’s amazing running community.
Running coach
Nigel Brown
Nige is a certified running coach and avid runner, with multiple road races and ultramarathons under his belt. As a former Brit, his favourite part of living in Sydney is the great weather and even better beer. His cheerful personality will help you get the most out of your training sessions – even at six in the morning.
Running coach
Sarah Barbaro
Sarah has been running recreationally for over 10 years. Having competed in various 10km and 5km races, along with several half marathons, she’s now training for the Sydney Marathon. In addition to being a certified running coach, Sarah works full time and is a busy mum to two girls. Sarah enjoys reading, ocean swimming and just being outdoors in nature.
Commercial & operations director
John McDonagh
John, an avid long distance runner and certified running coach, integrates his running knowledge and business and legal background into his role as a consultant at Running Science, helping to propel the team toward strategic growth and success. He’s also dedicated to supporting and guiding runners, walkers and athletes in their fitness journeys, enhancing their productivity and enjoyment.
Shoe fitter & social media manager
Amelie Wood
A sports fanatic, short-distance runner and ex-state swimmer, Amelie is passionate about helping everyday people who just want to enjoy a walk or run pain-free and happy. As a student studying the human body, she understands how much a shoe can impact the way we function in everyday life.