My running journey began on a September morning way back in 2006. I was almost 46 and had never run more than 100m in my life. A friend invited me to join her on that morning to meet with some crazy lady who thought she could teach a group of non runners how to run. I was not overly optimistic but was willing to give it a go. Although very nervous, at the prospect, (I had no idea what I should wear and everyone else would be better than me because this was actually the second week, I had missed the first week) I did turn up and met with a very enthusiastic Colleen Gunn. Wow, run I did. Run a block, walk a block, for about 20 minutes. That was the beginning. With the support, encouragement and coaching skills of Colleen I soon realised that I could achieve any running goal I wished. I know that I will never be a as fast as most runners, but I also know that I will cross the finish line.
Now, I have to say that I am definitely NOT a natural runner. I consider myself a bit of a plodder and anyone that has run with me will know that to be true. They can always hear me, for two reasons, either because I talk a lot or because of my heavy footfall. I have rather dodgy feet and have suffered with the worst blisters imaginable over the years. Coach Colleen and my Podiatrist are working with me to alleviate that.
Perhaps one of the reasons I have really stuck at running is because of the Go Getta Girls Inc. I am proud to be from the original group and was part of the brainstorming session to come up with a name for our unique group of women runners (women/girls getting out there and having a go). The support and the sense of camaraderie within the club is a powerful tool, and if you let it, will allow you to achieve your goals too. Even ones you thought were beyond your reach. I am continually inspired by the efforts and achievements of other women within the group.
It is one of the reasons that I have taken on the role of President for the year 2010. I am passionate in my belief that all women can benefit so much from our club. Not only with running, but in their personal lives as well. When goals are accomplished (and those goals may be as simple as running non stop for 2 blocks or 5km’s or 10km’s) the sense of achievement is empowering which flows into our everyday lives. GGG’s with a little perseverance and consistency, become fitter, healthier and happier. I also enjoy the social side of the Go Getta Girls Inc. supporting events such as Relay for Life, Rotary Fun Run and other community events. Perhaps though, my favourite social activity of the club is breakfast after long runs on a Saturday morning. The food, tea and coffee are great, but the company is even better with lots of laughter and the opportunity to discuss our mornings run.
My personal goal for the coming year is to complete my first Marathon at the Gold Coast in July. I am nervous and excited at the prospect, but am confident that by following my training program (thanks again Colleen) I will finish. I have over the past 2 years completed 3 half marathons. The first of those Colleen so kindly ran with me the whole way and my wonderful hubby and daughter were there to cheer me on as well. I hope each and every one of our members achieve their individual goals this year, and no matter how big or small those goals might be, perhaps these words by ‘George Eliot’ will help.
‘You are not made for failure.
You are made for victory.
Go forward with joyful confidence’.
Happy running
Donna
