Meet the R4R Runners #36

Maria

Welcome to the 36th edition of the Meet the R4R Runners. This week we get to meet a legend of the Friday mornings, Maria Wallace! When you meet Maria, you’re left feeling warmer, nicer, and better for it.

She’s a ‘salt of the earth’ type person and Friday mornings run + coffee are all the better for having her in attendance. I’m stoked to have crossed paths with Maria and I’m looking forward to her responses! So without further ado, let’s meet Maria!

Where are you from?

Proud Canberran born and bred.  I went to school here and then travelled with Tony and our family on postings around Australia, and also to PNG and the USA.

What's your favourite thing about Canberra? (apart from R4R obviously)

Love the country town feel, rather than being in a big city.  So lucky to be close to many green spaces and that LBG is in our back yard.  And I absolutely love the sunrises, sunsets and the magnificent cloudscapes. 

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

I actually can’t recall when I first found out about R4R - but I think my first visit was 14 April 2021.

What's your favourite thing about R4R?

It’s a constant - you can turn up every week or once in a while - and there is always a friendly face and someone to run or walk with - or coffee catch up after.  Absolutely no judgement - and always encouragement :)

Is there anything you'd like to see R4R do? 

I love the organic nature of R4R runs, but do like the idea of other events to raise awareness. I appreciate being able to wear the R4R cap when I’m out and about and would also be interested in supporting other merchandise opportunities - to spread the important message.   

Have you ever run a marathon before? If so, how'd you go?

No, I haven’t run a marathon and not sure that it will make it on my bucket list. However, totally impressed with those that do!  We've done the Bloody Long Walk 35km the last couple of years and some hiking adventures, and I really enjoy these challenges.

Are you planning on taking part in any races or events soon?

I’m registered for the Stromlo Running Festival 10km in November.  Our son Andrew will be visiting from overseas and he is also running, along with other family members, so looking forward to that one! 

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

Local Canberran and Bravehearts Ambassador Jess Peil - her passion and dedication is infectious.

Elton John - we could run and sing together with his music playing in our headphones.

Margot Fonteyn - she had such grace and athleticism in a stellar ballet career - would love to hear her stories. 

What does resilience mean to you?

Resilience to me means taking a deep breath and trying again and again. Knowing that some days will be harder than others - but that there is always light, love and support out there, even when it seems dark. Just breathe - and keep moving …

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

To reinforce to myself how lucky I am for all the good people and things in my life. To be grateful for good health and even just the briefest life-changing experiences and relationships. To know that things will be ok …

We've stopped the count on Benny A vs. Jonesy... So, who do you think takes out the R4R gift this year (both male and female)?

Scotty Imhoff and Emily Murphy???  

Awesome stuff, Maria. Thank you!