Tania’s Interview was brought to you as part of our "More than" campaign for International Women's Day 2023.

Campaign by Strong Like a Mutha

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Clothing by lululemon

Videography by Ellen Francis

Photography by Mirrorbox Photography

Tania (she/her) is passionate about trial/ultra-running. So, we’d love to give you an insight into how her journey into running all began and what her sport has taught her along the way!

How did you get into it?

I did an obstacle race (which was on the trails), and since I couldn't run without breaks, I thought it would be easier to run and stop at obstacles! Surprisingly, I did love the running in trails parts (my first time running in trails) I didn't know there was a sport that was only running in trails...so a bit of investigation and 3 months later I was doing my first 50 km trail race.

How do you feel when trail running or doing an ultra run?

Feel relaxed, and peaceful, I can think clearly so gives me a sense of peace.

What impact has trail/ultra running had on your life?

Lots! My sport has taught me so much patience. Running a long race and climbing a mountain is a great patience teacher. This has carried over to my everyday life, it’s been a great learning opportunity since patience doesn't come naturally to me.

Trial/ultra-running has taught me not to get overwhelmed by the big goal, to take small steps, just like in a race, and don't be overwhelmed by the massive distance in front. Just focusing on getting to the next checkpoint, the next step, and just keep moving. Tackle only the challenge in front of you, do the best you can.

I’ve learnt to live and enjoy the moment. In running, more so in trails, you have to be very aware of yourself and how you’re feeling, being alert to your body cues of hunger, and thirst for example. Which in life has taught me to be present in the moment, and aware of myself.

You have responsibility for your results, you can't blame anyone on race day! Your success or failure is the result of your decisions and the result of your consistency. You should be ready for curveballs like weather, a part of your equipment getting broken, and so many things that can go wrong on such a long day out. I’ve now learnt the same in life, not to blame anyone apart from myself, only try and control the controllable and be ready for the unexpected.

Although you say your sport is super friendly, do you feel there is an equal balance of opportunities for your gender in trail/ultra running?

Although anyone can sign up to the races, at the start line of most ultraraces only 10% of participants are women. I feel the sport could definitely do with some changes so women feel more welcome. For example, longer cutoffs for women. We often don't run these races as fast as men, so why do we have the same cut off times?

What would you say to a younger version of you hesitant to get into your sport?

Oh she was never hesitant haha. I would just say... Oh you have no idea how your life is about to change.

What would you love to see change for people of your gender in your sport or life in general?

I would love for women to be able to stop doubting themselves, lose the fear to fail, and the “I can't”. In their sport and in life.

What makes you feel powerful?

Turning around and seeing all the beautiful places that my sport has taken me, and the massive challenges I have gone through during races and training. It makes me feel powerful, the fact that I keep surprising myself with my mental and physical strength.

When do you feel your best?

After a long, gruelling ultra race/run. That pain of success, that well-earned soreness no one can take away, is yours and only yours to enjoy. You can’t buy that feeling, having a smile on your face, maybe some tears and a medal around your neck!

How has your sport contributed to feelings of being empowered, standing up for yourself, using your voice etc?

I can use my voice and example, to proof them that anything is possible with determination. It’s important not only to have a strong body but even a stronger mind. Show them that you don't need to be talented, or genetically exceptional, to prove to yourself what you're capable of.