“I started running to lose weight, after I had my children. I had three boys under 3, lived in a rural area, and was working in dairy farming. I found it difficult to get any exercise with all three kids in tow, so I got a treadmill and walked/ran on that to help lose the baby weight. A year into my running journey I had surgery for elective abdominal repair post baby. I then ran on the treadmill for another year before I felt comfortable to run outside. I was so afraid that people would think I had no business doing it.
After that year I signed up for and completed my first 10km road event. Then I had the bug! I’ve trained many kilometres and run several half marathons.
I started working for Frontrunner New Plymouth, and along with my good friend, we created the ‘Feel Good Run Crew’. It was our intention to create a totally inclusive and supportive run club, where everyone feels welcome. I worked at the store for 5 years. I loved my time at Frontrunner New Plymouth and the opportunity it gave me to create an environment that never judges, but encourages every person in their chosen sport.
I’ve run in many local events and believe in supporting the local events so they are able to continue. I gained confidence on trails, picking up trail running and hiking, including completing Taranaki Around the Mountain Circuit over two days, and have completed six Mount Taranaki Summits. Most recently I ticked off my goal of hiking the Routeburn Track in a day.
As a consequence of carrying three babies and extensive abdominal surgery, I don’t always find the running journey smooth. For the past 18 months I’ve struggled with various injuries. Lately, I’ve been doing more hiking/fast packing because I find that a good pace for my body, and I love being up our beautiful Mt Taranaki.
When Carly gave me the opportunity to share my story again, I wanted to share the side of my journey that I don’t talk about much and that people can’t see. Post carrying babies and surgery, my body and mind were in a place of broken confidence. Running (along with a great counselor) helped me to heal my body and mind, gain strength, and then take me to a place where I was doing things I never dreamed of.
I will always advocate for running – for the mental and physical benefits, and the self confidence it brings. I will cheer for every underdog – every mum who runs despite the battles with pelvic floor issues, every person who’s won a battle against their physical or mental struggles to get out there. I’m so grateful for running, for the community it’s given me, and the absolute pure love of the sport.”
Sarah @sarahleebrittain
(Taranaki)
Photo taken on the Routeburn Track
–
Portraits of Runners + their stories
@RunnersNZ
