An Unforgettable Experience

You’ll remember a story from a few editions back on the ‘Orange Mums Running’ team taking on the Tarawera Ultra Marathon in New Zealand, well, they are back and proud to show off their awesome efforts.

Whilst is was a challenging course, taking into consideration the elevation and volcanic sulphur-filled air, the atmosphere was a highlight for most. Alison Broughton explained, “The culture, the people, the scenery and the exceptional race volunteers it was just amazing.

When you sight that finish line you seem to find that extra grunt to run across the line. It was such a celebration - of the long hard training hours, moving forward over several hours, never giving up, trusting in your training and in your legs to get you home. Finally, the medal is placed over your neck and you can stop running and be embraced in the arms of your support people, for us that was a team of 15 from Orange. What an event to experience together... it was unforgettable.”

Alison continued, “After the race we soaked in the New Zealand culture and spirit, beginning with Whitewater rafting, hot springs and recovery spas, cool lake swims, a relaxing massage, cultural dance and food, definitely food! There were lots of chocolates and sweet treats to reward our accomplishments. We were so very proud of our whole crew.”

“We love competing together and supporting each other, not just at races but in our daily/weekly runs around Orange – whether it be stair repeats at Pinnacle, a hilly run at Emu Swamp, Canobolas and Kinross trail running, Elephant Park loops at Orange Runners, and various town courses we map out, we have each other’s backs.”
A massive congratulations to the entire team as everyone made it over that finish line and some participants even achieving personal bests on both distance and time. GO TEAM!

Photos by EdithMay Gowing