Meet the R4R Runners #5

Lara T

Welcome to the 5th edition of the ‘Meet the R4R Runners’ where we get meet Lara. Before the Singh’s, Tyson’s, and Binh’s of the world were spreading R4Rs message, one woman held down the title of R4Rs biggest spruiker!

Lara has been attending R4R since early on, and through back injuries and shifting work locations, she still manages to get down. I enjoy Lara’s company regardless, but it must be said, especially when R4R was in its infancy, Lara’s efforts to spread the word were integral in the amazing growth we’ve seen.

So as always, without further ado, 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 bevvie 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. 

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’re gonna have to give that to Jonesy to balance it out (Benny A 4 - Jonesy 1). Thanks, Lara!

And remember, on December 15, R4R turns 2!

We’re lucky enough for the Dock to host us and for Schroders to foot the bill.

Please RSVP so we have a good idea of numbers. We would love to see you all there! (capacity permitting)