Real Life Member's Stories: Siobhan

Running has always been one of those activities that appeared daunting. The thought of endlessly pounding pavement for miles on end seemed an impossible feat. However, little did I know that a simple decision to sign up for a half marathon fundraiser for the school I work at would completely transform my life. This blog post is a testament to my running journey: the challenges I've faced, the lessons I've learnt, and the incredible experiences that have shaped me as a runner.

Igniting the Passion: Looking back, when I initially signed up for the half marathon, I had no clue what I was getting myself into! The allure of supporting a good cause and joining a community of like-minded individuals was my motivation. Little did I know that this event would awaken a dormant passion within me. As I started training and participating in races, I found myself falling in love with the sport and craving the sense of achievement and satisfaction that it brought.

First steps: As a complete running novice, I quickly realised that there was much to learn. To bridge this knowledge gap, I joined a local running club. The camaraderie and support from fellow runners were invaluable in my development. I was a sponge, soaking up advice on proper form, training techniques, injury prevention, and pacing strategies. The running community became my teacher and mentor, guiding me every step of the way.

Embracing the Trails: One of the most significant turning points in my running journey was discovering the world of trail running. That's where Trails and Fitness came in. I found myself running amidst picturesque landscapes, exploring hidden trails, and forging a deeper connection with nature added an entirely new dimension to my running journey. The events organised by Trails and Fitness and the experiences that followed were nothing short of extraordinary. I am now signed up to several trail races and runs - a side of the sport I would never have considered before being part of this group. Running as part of a team allows you to meet like-minded people, be inspired by those you meet and share in the love (and sometimes pain) of running. Not to mention the pub at the finish!

Ultra Challenge: As my love for trail running grew, I yearned for a bigger challenge. That's when I stumbled upon the For Rangers Ultra, a gruelling 150-mile race through the reserves of Kenya surrounded by some of Africa's most iconic and majestic wildlife. It will be a race that tests both physical endurance and mental resilience.

Without giving it a second thought, I signed on the dotted line, knowing that this challenge would push me beyond my limits. But what truly sets this race apart is the requirement to carry all that will keep me alive throughout the course. It's a true test of self-reliance and determination.

The Road Ahead: As I prepare for the For Rangers Ultra, I am reminded of how far I have come on this incredible journey. The countless miles logged, the friendships forged, and the personal growth I've experienced have all shaped me into a stronger, more resilient individual. Running has become more than just a hobby; it's a way of life—a constant source of joy and inspiration (although it comes with its fair share of pain and missing toenails). But running isn't easy, and that's what I love about it.

My running journey, which began with a simple half marathon fundraiser, has evolved into a passion - filled with adventure. It's a journey that continues to shape me both as an athlete and an individual. As I lace up my running shoes and take on new challenges, I can't help but be grateful for the incredible experiences that lie ahead on this exhilarating and limitless road of running.