“My reason for running has changed over the years. I started running to do something for myself. I had 3 children under 2 years old and things were very busy at home. When my twins turned two I decided it was time to do something for myself. New Plymouth Joggers & Walkers were advertising their training clinics for the local ½ marathon… it took me a while but I got brave enough and went along on my own. Best decision I ever made! I met people that day who have become life-long friends.
Numerous half marathons and even a couple of marathons later, running became my way of relaxing a busy mind that refuses to switch off; constant worry, way too much overthinking. When I run all that stops. I follow along with whichever group I am with, happy to listen to conversations, not necessarily needing to be a part of them.
I only used to run on the road, but the pressure that I was putting on myself to constantly improve my half marathon times started to take the fun out of my runs. Then a friend suggested I enter an off-road event about 3 years ago. Now it has become about enjoying the experience, there is no pressure, I know it’s going to be hard, but I just love it. We live in such a beautiful country and I’m grateful that I can get out there and enjoy it.
My reason then changed again. Those 3 young children are now independent young men and I need the companionship that group running brings. And I need to do something for me again. A three event trail series and a marathon are on the plans this year. Then the Tarawera 50km event in February next year. I’m not sure why entering a 50km run was a good idea, but they say if something scares you and excites you at the same time, you should probably do it!”
Vanessa @webbervanessa
(New Plymouth)
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Portraits of Runners + their stories
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