Nick Clarke gets to work before sunrise and starts preparing the centre for members and guests for the busy day ahead. There’s no job too big or too small for the popular Gym and Group Exercise Instructor, and he does everything with pride and enthusiasm. Nick truly puts the “super” into Sports Super Centre.
He’s also one of the centre’s longest serving staff members, having been involved since the construction of the site, which was developed by his father, former Gold Coast Mayor and 1956 Melbourne Olympics Torch Bearer, Ron Clarke. Nick fondly remembers helping lay the 400m running track, and the buzz surrounding the first time trials to be held here, in which 2000 Olympics Torch Bearer Cathy Freeman competed.
Nick’s favourite part of the job is helping members and making them feel welcome. You’ll usually find him on hand on the gym floor, or in the group exercise studios teaching one of his favourite pastimes, Pilates. His other great love is running. He’s been a member of the Southport Running Club since 2002, and regularly takes part in half marathons and every fun run he can.
Originally from Melbourne, Nick moved to the UK from 1983 before coming to settle in Runaway Bay in 1995. While he misses Melbourne, he admits the climate, environment and lifestyle here is hard to beat. He still keeps an eye on his favourite AFL club Essendon, and has adopted the Gold Coast Suns as his number 2 team.
