The three frequent the Newy parkrun and spend at least one afternoon a week training together.

Clare said she and her daughters ran for fun.

"We love to motivate and push each other," Mrs Nash said.

"And if it's raining, I don't give them an option.

"Too bad; your skin is waterproof, I say."

The trio was inspired to take up running after watching their brother and uncle Ryan Heffernan compete in Ironman events along the Central Coast.

Emily, 16, joined Adamstown New Lambton Little Athletics when she was 11 and Mia, 12, followed in her sister's footsteps at nine.

Both have achieved results at state and national school cross-country carnivals.

Meanwhile, Mrs Nash has entered the Newcastle Herald's 10-kilometre Hill to Harbour race for the past three years.

This month the trio will put their skills to the test when they enter the Lake Macquarie Running Festival for the third year.

Emily, who usually takes on the 4km kids' scamper alongside Mia, will enter the 10.5km fun run for the first time.

Mrs Nash will also enter the 10.5km event, hoping to improve on last year's second-place finish in her age group.

■ The Lake Macquarie Running Festival is on Sunday, August 31. Go to lakehalf.com for more information.