From Physics to the Finish Line – Victoria Chases 800m Glory at UniSport Nationals Athletics
Published Wed 16 Apr 2025
University of Adelaide student-athlete Victoria Cholsh is focused on one goal this April - and that's winning gold in the 800m at UniSport Nationals Athletics, held on the Gold Coast from 22–24 April 2025.
Now in her fourth year of a Bachelor of Science (High Performance Computational Physics) (Honours), Victoria is a standout both on the track and in studies. With plans to graduate in mid-2026, she balances the intensity of elite sport with the demands of a rigorous academic program - and she’s doing so with precision and consistency.
A long-time competitor in middle-distance events, Victoria's journey into athletics began in primary school, where she discovered a passion for sprinting and competition. That early enthusiasm grew into a serious commitment during high school after competing in interschool carnivals and watching more experienced runners dominate the field. Determined to match their level, Victoria began training with a club and hasn’t looked back. "I really wanted to be like the girls who trained hard and ran fast,” she recalled. “So I asked my mum to help me find a coach - and that’s where it all started.”
Training is also supported by her involvement in the Adelaide University Athletics Club, where she has been a member for the past 3 years. Being part of an Adelaide University Sport club, she says, has deepened her connection to the university experience. “It’s a great way to get involved and meet new people in the sport community at university, who are all so supportive – I definitely wish I’d become a member earlier.” she shared.
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Over the past eight years, she’s competed at both state and national levels, steadily building a name for herself in the 800m and 1500m. Victoria has built an impressive resume at UniNationals, including a gold medal in the 800m at the 2023 UniNationals and a 1500m title in 2024. But this year, she’s putting all her energy into the 800m, aiming to take away a second title.
“I’ve always loved the 800,” she said. “It’s fast, it’s tough, and it really pushes you to find that perfect balance between speed and endurance.”
Choosing to focus solely on one event this year is a strategic decision. By narrowing her sights on the 800m, Victoria is giving herself the best possible chance to peak at the right moment. Her training schedule reflects this precision: four weekly running sessions, strength and conditioning in the gym, long jogs, and now, a tapering period to ensure she hits her stride come race day.
Representing the University of Adelaide at UniNationals is something Victoria values and she has competed in the event for the past two years. She says the opportunity to wear the University of Adelaide logo on a national stage means a lot. “I take great pride in representing a university that has had so many inspiring athletes,” she said.
Balancing academics, athletics, and a personal life is no easy task, but Victoria has developed a solid routine over the years. She sticks to a structured schedule where training comes first, and study and class times are slotted in around that. It’s a strategy that’s helped her stay on top of everything without compromising on performance.
Among her proudest sporting achievements is last year’s win at the UniNationals in a dramatic sprint finish. But even with that victory under her belt, it’s the 800m that holds her heart – and this year, her full focus.
Looking ahead, this UniNationals Athletics event marks the end of her 2024/25 season. After a short break, she’ll then head into a block of winter training as she works toward her long-term goal - earning a spot on the Australian national team. “There’s a lot more training and experience I need to get there,” she said. “But events like UniNationals are a perfect stepping stone.”
Whether or not she ends up on the world stage, one thing is certain: Victoria's passion for running isn’t going anywhere. “I want to be doing this sport for a long time,” she said. “Even if I’m not racing competitively, I still want to be running.”
Victoria is one of two student-athletes representing the University of Adelaide at this year’s UniSport Nationals Athletics event on the Gold Coast. We wish both Victoria Cholsh and Caitlin Slobedman all the very best in their events as they take on some of the nation’s top university athletes. Stay tuned for updates as the competition unfolds.
If you'd like to learn more about the Adelaide University Athletics Club, you can visit their website here
