If you have spent any time on the trails, chances are you have crossed paths with today's featured mum. She is one of the friendliest, most familiar faces in our trail running community. Someone who is passionate about the sport and is just an awesome person to be around. You also may have heard her over on the Dirt Church Radio podcast talking all things trail.
How long have you been running for?
I first had the joy of trail running when I was a teenager, and got back into it properly about 13 years ago.
What got you into trail running?
I have always loved the outdoors and adventuring/exploring. It became a fun way to experience new places and made me want to keep going further and seeing new things.
What has trail running done for you?
Ahh gosh, that is a big question, it's become my job for the past decade coaching runners. I am on the commentary team at lots of neat events. It's given me a way to explore my body and mind and to push both of their limits but also to fill them with joy, adventure and friendship too. It's helped me see some of the most beautiful sights. It's been a catalyst for some of the best and strongest friendships. It's given me a layer of self belief and resilience that I didn't know I had beforehand.
How many kids do you have?
One beautiful boy and two entertaining teenage step daughters.
Biggest highlight in trail running so far?
I actually can't even answer it. There are so many highlights for different reasons.
What's next on your radar in the trail running space?
I am off to Australia this weekend to MC Ultra Trail Kosciuszko and then on to Whakatu/Nelson to MC at The Spectacle.
Favourite place to run?
Everywhere! There are too many beautiful places to name just one.
What is your best piece of advice to share with mums hitting the trails?
To remember what the real value of running is, and to avoid getting caught up in negative self talk because of pace/speed. Enjoy those moments for you and engage in our sport in a fun and healthy way. Running can be very black and white, but the thing I love about trail running is that usually people ask you if you had fun or saw that beautiful thing rather than just ask you what time it took you to do it. So remember to have fun and soak up the scenery.