Why do we run? And one of the most spirited finishes ever in the Women's Marathon

Why do we run? For each of us that answer will be different.

And for some, it might be the customary ‘only to catch a bus’ reply :)

I don’t run nearly as often or as effortlessly as I’d like to these days, but when I do it reminds me of how much I love it, and how much joy and growth it has given me.

A few days ago I heard Michelle’s story. She took up running aged 50, curious about the local Parkrun. And when group runs came to a stand still she began to love solo running. So much so it inspired her to do a virtual run… around Australia!!! She logs her km’s each week and is making her way around the country.

This reminded me of that same project a wonderful teacher Amy initiated at my old primary school. The year 1/2’s started each day walking or running around the oval before class and would tally their laps together with paddle pop sticks and mark it on the map as they made their way around Australia too.

Absolutely brilliant! Both of these stories, and reasons to run.

For the majority of us, the word ‘podium finish’ will never be something in our aspirations to run.

But I want to contrast these stories with a clip of someone who deserved every ounce of this podium finish.

Even if you don’t run - you have to watch this!

It’s given my 2 year old son his own reason to run, requesting it on repeat as he cuts laps around our living room saying ‘I’m very fast’.

The late great Kerryn McCann.

Described as one of the most spirited finishes ever in the Women’s Marathon she battled it out to defend her title in the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games.

The loudest ever noise level was recorded at the MCG that day.

You can play the clip here, or click on the image above.

Whatever your reason to run - keep going!