Meet the R4R Runners #13
Lara T
Welcome to the 13th instalment of the ‘Meet the R4R Runners’. This week we get to meet one the R4R OGs and when we consider ‘super spreaders’ like Singh, Binh, and Tyson, we have to tip our R4R hats to the original super spreader, Lara.
As consistent as she was in turning up every week in the early days, Lara was just as consistent bringing a new face along. Whilst her attendance isn’t as frequent as it once was, her presence is still as strong and it’s always great to catch up with her. Let’s meet Lara!
What is your name?
Lara T
Where are you from?
Brisbane
Have you always lived in Canberra?
I have moved around due to work. I have been back in Canberra for the last (almost) 3 years.
How did you first hear about R4R?
On The Dock Facebook page, and then discussed it with some mates, so we dragged each other along.
When did you first attend a R4R?
gosh! It was pretty early days. Not sure if late 2019 or early ish 2020!
What keeps you coming back to R4R?
I like to support the community and those that established it. It has provided an outlet, and an opportunity for social connection for many. By sharing stories it has made people feel less like they are alone.
Canberra can be a cliquey environment and this allows participants to meet other like minded people. To feel part of a community, especially when you are new to town.
Do you have a R4R Personal Best? If not, what’s your 5km PB?
I was running around 5 min/km when I started, but since injury I know I won’t get back to that.
I need to make sure I don’t push myself to injury again. I am trying to become more comfortable with that.
Do you prefer the winter R4Rs or the Summer R4Rs?
Spring haha! But not being freezing is much more motivating, and sets the conditions for the bevvy after.
Do you prefer Friday or Wednesday R4R? or in other words… Do you prefer beer or coffee?
I like wine and coffee! But the day I choose really depends on the ability to make timings around work.
If you could go for a 3km/6km walk or run with 3 people alive or dead, who would you choose and why?
Marcus Aurelius so he could help me stay stoic, and impart some wisdom.
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson so he could carry me if the stoicism failed, and also because he would have me in stitches laughing.
Let me stop you there, Lara… The Rock is the man… carry on.
My kiwi friend Wendy, who was my R4R running (and drinking) sista, but has gone back to her motherland.
What does resilience mean to you?
It is the ability to handle the challenges life sends your way. It is the ability to see a way through. Resilience is something you can cultivate. It can go up and down, so you don’t have to be resilient every moment. Being vulnerable is ok too.
Is there a time in your life where you’ve had to rely on your ability to be resilient?
There have been many times in my personal and professional life.
If you could say one thing to someone going through something tough at the moment, what would it be?
That it is ok to be vulnerable. It is human to feel pain and hurt and loss and disappointment. But that they are not alone. To reach out.
And that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
In the 2022 edition of the R4R Gift, who will win the coveted Clydesdale award 100kg and above? Jonesy, Benny A, or other?
Oh gosh, that’s a big call. This is the toughest question on here lol!!
We’ll give that to Jonesy… Thanks, Lara!