Michelle Dziego
I did not choose this race; the race chose me. Now that it’s done, I know that it happened this way for so many reasons other than actually running 50km. The last 12 months has been a spectacular journey of ups and downs and round and rounds. Let me take you on the ride…… 2019 was a really … Read more
101 hours 58 minutes.350kmApprox 7 hours sleepToo many blisters to countOne sore kneeOne dirty knee brace thrown away at the endSo many amazing viewsOne full meltdown/panic attackMany moderate meltdownsMany small meltdownsToo many tears to countI would hate to know how many swear words and grunts going down hill3kg lost over the few days0 times I … Read more
For most trail runners there is a (sometimes fairly significant) component of hiking the uphills. Especially when you’re out there for 5, 10, 20 hours hiking like you mean it can have you up and over mountains like a determined warrior, and taking chunks from your overall race time – so why not focus on … Read more
It is every parents dream, the hope of a healthy baby. And in 2006 Sophie Smith thought she had her whole families future ahead of her. A loving husband, and triplets on the way. But then, at 21 weeks her waters broke and shortly after, her new born baby son Henry passed away in her … Read more
The idea to enter Tarawera originated on a trail run with friend Leanne. She planted the seed and I was intrigued and excited at the thought of running beautiful NZ trails. Almost immediately I began considering the 100 mile option, could I actually finish the 100 mile race? Eventually entries opened and I decided to … Read more
We continue our chat with Jessica Stenson and ask her about the lessons and learnings from her journey so far as a mum, her thoughts on women in sport, and what her plans are for the future. We have seen that you are back running. What does a typical day look like for you now that … Read more
We continue our three-part series by talking to Jess about what it was like to be pregnant, what considerations did she have to take planning and entering motherhood with her training and what was it like being a mother for those first few weeks. Last year you welcomed your first son, Billy into your family. … Read more
SETTING THE SCENE It’s 6am. The tranquil rainforest sounds of Dylan’s phone alarm get louder as if politely persuading him to roll out of bed. He eventually gives in. Moments after he opens the shower door, I hear a little murmur in the bassinet beside me. Two small feet covered in a muslin wrap fling … Read more
It was during my first half marathon (Run for the Young 2018 – Lilydale) where I met fellow RMA Jo, that I first heard of Two Bays trail run. Jo mentioned that she was aiming for a sub 2.15 half to qualify for the 28km run at the popular trail event. I had never heard … Read more
It’s hard to believe the day is finally here. The last day of 2019. How that came around so fast is a wonder to me. The year has been jam-packed and it seems that every year just gets faster and faster as time flies by. I wanted to take the time to be thankful to … Read more
A few years ago a few RMA were embarking on quite a challenging race, the Coastal Classic, a 29km trail run on the stunning south coast of NSW in the Royal National Park. Typically this race is held in early September, however a huge rainy week on the lead up meant that the race was … Read more
I sit a two weeks out from my first full marathon and it still hasn’t sunk in. Two weeks ago I was standing in a red plastic poncho with members of out Not Fast Just Furious RAV Team at the gates of the start line ready to begin what would be the final leg of … Read more
In the dwindling months of my 30’s, my family asked me what I wanted for my 40thbirthday. My answer: “A marathon”. As mum to Henry (8), Braden (6) and Tahra (nearly 2) the best present anyone could get me is 4-5hrs of peace and quiet. My life is beautiful chaos. I juggle part-time work, study, mumming … Read more