“It’s been an epic journey so far… pain, sweat, and agony but great views, great support, and amazing people, with plenty of banter.
I ran during my youth but always for the sole purpose of getting fit for the rugby season. That changed when I hung up my boots. I got myself into an unfit state so decided to start running again. A lot of the motivation and pressure actually came from my sister, who quickly became an ultra-runner not long after she first started. She signed me up and ran with me for my first trail event at Xterra Rotorua.
I still remember my first run two years ago, when I decided to get into it, I barely managed 800 metres before I had to stop. But each week I managed to somehow build on it and now find myself happy to push out half marathons. And I’m currently training for my first ultra.
Trail running is my preference and as sadistic as it sounds, I really enjoy the challenge and reward of a decent climb. My aim is not so much event heavy, but to get myself fit enough to explore New Zealand’s great trails, along with challenging myself to new limits.
What I’ve also enjoyed about running is the different stories and abilities we all have and the milestones we are all aiming for. I enjoy following people on Strava and inherently becoming competitive, but also love seeing others progress and achieve personal bests.”
Matt @waterworth12
(Napier)
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Portraits of Runners + their stories
@RunnersNZ
