It has resulted in many pairs of shoes and countless blisters, but he sees it as an addiction he would like more young people to embrace.

The Commonwealth Games gold medallist would prefer to see more youngsters pounding the pavement than spending time in front of computer games.

"I just love the atmosphere and the adrenaline you get by challenging yourself," Moneghetti said.

"You can challenge someone on an Xbox inside with all the technology we've got now, but it's all virtual.

"It's not real and it's a machine. What I like about running is the machine is us and our bodies and you get to test your own mettle and your own body.

"It is a unique experience."

The 56-year-old will compete in the Port Macquarie Running Festival this weekend, but he admitted his focus has shifted towards fun and enjoyment.

"If I was in the best shape of my life, I'd win this race by five minutes so I'd be out the front by myself," he said.

"But this way I get to interact a lot more, I get to enjoy the experience in far different components and that's something I really relish.

"It's nice to not just come as a spectator but be an active participant.

"I ran before I was any good and I'm running now when I'm not any good any more but love what I do."

Moneghetti represented Australia and won a bronze medal in the marathon at the 1997 world championships in Athens which backed up his gold-medal performance in Victoria three years earlier.

He also claimed silver at the 1990 Commonwealth Games in Auckland.

"The adrenaline and the buzz you get out of finishing a run is like nothing you will get out of technology," he said.

"It is just such a fantastic experience; I love that endorphin release and that's the reason I'm still running.

"For kids to experience that … it becomes an addiction for life and it's a healthy addiction so why wouldn't you want to get out and do it."

While the competitive juices continued to flow, Moneghetti was focused more on giving back to the sport that had presented him with so much.

"There is only one person that's going to win; the rest are doing it for other reasons and I love that personal challenge," he said.

"It's an area I'm not going to run all that often so I'll take in the environment but I'll also take in the company.

"You make some friendships along the way and that makes for a much more positive experience."

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