Let's meet Sofia

Meet the R4R Runners #98

Welcome to the 98th edition of Meet the R4R Runners. This week, we get to meet Sofia, who’s warm personality just makes you want to say hello to her, every time you see her. She’s given some cracking answers to the Rag, so without further ado, let’s meet Sofia!

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What is your name? 

Sofia Moffett

Where are you from?

I’m originally from Brisbane, but I have lived in Canberra for almost six years.

What's your favourite thing about Canberra?

That’s hard to pick, but ultimately it comes down to the people for me. This city is full of interesting, kind human beings who each have a story to tell. I’m a really family-oriented person, so living away from home can be really tough, particularly when the waters get a bit choppy.

I’ve found a really incredible community here, made up of people who have both similarly moved here away from their home bases, and also born and bred locals who have been so generously shared their world with me, which has meant a lot.

How did you hear about R4R and when did you first attend?

I first attended in September last year. One of my friends, Elise Williamson, has been a part of the community for years, and encouraged me and a few other friends to come along one day. I think I’ve only missed a couple of days since.

What's your favourite thing about R4R?

A couple of years ago, I was diagnosed with a heart condition which means that running is a no-go for me. So walking is my thing, and I have never felt pressured, intimidated or out of place because I’m not up pounding the pavement with everyone else.

I think one thing that makes this group so special is that it takes something that can be quite an inward experience, being running/walking, and makes it about more than just ourselves. It kind of feels like I’m contributing to something greater by being there, and that’s quite a unique experience for an exercise group.

What would you like to see R4R do?

Maybe an opt-in challenge or something that will help people stay motivated to come through winter?

What's the longest you've ever run? 

I genuinely have no idea. I haven’t run for a while (for the reasons outlined above), but when I was running, it wasn’t over long distances - my sister is the marathon runner in the family. In terms of walking, probably around 15 kms.

Are you planning on taking part in any races or events soon or are there any just gone?

I don’t frequent running events, but I’m thinking about doing City to Surf this year.

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Which three people (alive or dead) would you like to run or walk 6km with?

My Grandmother: she was unwell by the time I was old enough to really get to know her, but I think she’d have some pretty great things to say.

Agatha Christie: I practically grew up with her books. How on earth did she come up with all those plots and twists? And what happened the night of the car crash?

Dolly Parton: she’s a queen, need I say more?

What does resilience mean to you?

Resilience for me is finding light in the dark times. It’s not necessarily about being happy, but it’s going through really challenging times and being able to find yourself again, even if that version of yourself has seen some things.

When you look back on the hardest moment/s in your life, is there anything you wish you could have told yourself? 

Just breathe. You’ve got good people around you. Take a breath and keep going.

Thanks, Sofia!

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Watch this space

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Keep left and keep it lit

Last week was awesome, with all the people bringing their headlights or using their phones. Let’s keep it going and remember to keep left on the shared paths.