Runners encouraged to relax, breathe, drink and smile

14 February 2013

Runners encouraged to relax, breathe, drink and smile

Crowd Goes Wild television presenter Meghan Mutrie will be joining the 2,500 ISC Lenco Half Marathon entrants in this Sunday’s AMI Round the Bays, organised by Sport Wellington.

Meghan has a final message for those gearing up for either the half marathon event or the 7km fun run and walk.

“You've done the work - or not! Either way, there really isn't anything else you can do so relax, breathe, drink water and smile. Lose yourself in the supporters and watching your peers push themselves. There are a thousand different experiences going on around you. You're not alone. Enjoy it. And pray for no wind!”

Meghan, 28, is an AMI Round the Bays Ambassador for the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research. She has recently been awarded Canada's Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for her work with a global sports charity, Right to Play. The organisation helps poor youths into sport and play to improve their health and develop life skills.

Meghan says she participates in AMI Round the Bays because of the lasting sense of achievement that comes with crossing a finish line, at any speed and after whatever distance, and the relationships built through working towards a common goal.

“Because being fit and healthy usually makes you happier too. It has nothing to do with your race result or how you look but everything to do with that inner confidence and how you feel; that you've made the right choices to get where you are.

“And it's not about being so rigid and strict that you feel you're missing out - it's all part of a balanced life, or living as close to one as you can. I think that's where the happiness comes from.”

Meghan grew up ‘playing everything’ and is looking forward to her role as an Ambassador for the Malaghan Institute.

“New Zealanders are a hardy bunch but I think Wellingtonians dig their heels in a bit deeper to live here - and sometimes you have to with the infamous wind. To be an ambassador of an event for such a cool city with a diverse population is a huge honour,” she says.

2001 New Zealand Sportswoman of the Year, seven time national cross-country champion and two time world mountain running champion Melissa Moon is taking part in the 7km run. Melissa is also an Ambassador for the official charity partner, the Malaghan Institute of Medial Research, along with Radio presenter Jason Pine.

For further information please visit www.sportwellington.org.nz

ENDS

© Scoop Media