Wow what an amazing weekend! I’ve been sitting at my computer, editing the endless stacks of photos on my camera from the Villa & Hut Sandy Point Half and just about to embark on a huge blogpost about the event. Then I received from Lynda, the winner of the “Why You Love to Run?” Contest from Stafford & Rowse, this amazing note in my inbox. I just had to share it with you, because it reminds me, that as much as running is a personal challenge, it is also very much about community. We would like to thank everyone who helped make this the most spectacular fun run in Melbourne!
This is from Lynda:
Wow, what a fantastic run yesterday. We were all so lucky with nice warm weather, a great course and fabulous organisers and sponsors who work so hard behind the scene to make days like yesterday run so smoothly. Having been fortunate to be selected as the winner of the “what running means to me” competition I would like to thank Villa and Hut, Stanford and Rowse and the team at Start to Finish for all their hard work and generosity. I would also like to thank all other entrants, who so beautifully expressed the many positive benefits of running on our physical and mental health. Being new to the world of running I have been so lucky to meet people who encourage you to achieve your goals, regardless of your level of fitness or running experience.
Six months ago I wouldn’t have run to catch as bus, now I’d rather run everywhere. I love the feeling of my fitness improving and the strength in my legs as I move up hills and along the banks of the Yarra. I can remember running up a hill one night looking at my shadow on a wall and thinking who is this person, look at that powerful stride, go girl go. Running transforms you both physically and mentally to be a healthier person. Running clears the mind; it gets you outdoors into our many wonderful parks and gardens and it’s great to run in a group or solo. All you need is the correct shoes, a good sports bra and some music to get those legs pumping. Not much of an outlay to get started, but the benefits are priceless.
Today I am still so delighted and still super excited to be lucky enough to have won the competition. The next step for me is to start thinking about how to train for the Kokoda track. Having talked to my super fit neighbour who has completed the walk, and who kind enough to inform me it is pretty gruelling both mentally and physically. I have to admit I had a little moment of panic, but then decided to reframe it as another goal to set for myself. Now, I look forward to the challenge of sinking in thick mud while trying to climb up tracks that are so steep that right now I can’t begin to imagine. I’m looking forward to training with the team at Stanford and Rowse who I met yesterday and both guys seem like a lot of fun. I’ll keep you posted on with my progress over the next few months of training and the big trip. Run happy, Lynda
