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Sometimes, we chase speed and medals in running, but what if the real reward isn’t in your times at all? What if it’s the simple joy of lacing up and getting out there every day that truly creates a lasting impact? When injury or setbacks strike, many realise that running’s deeper value isn’t about the finish line, but about the day to day experience itself. In this first episodeof Her Pace, I was lucky enough to chat with 8x Marathoner and Mum, Rachel Williams and to hear her take on why loving the everyday run matters most. Rachel shares how her background in sport laid the foundation for her incredible performances today (3:05 pb) and how stepping away due to injury actually cemented the reason she loves running: the connection with nature, the camaraderie with friends, and the pure joy of those easy, mindful strides. It’s a reminder that sometimes, slowing down can lead to the greatest fulfilment, shifting our focus from goals to the journey.
Key topics:
The importance of non-time-based goals in running, running as a connection with nature and community, how to persevere through injury and setbacks, finding peace in the daily running routine.
Time stamps:
(00:41) Intro and Rachel’s early sportsbackground
(01:01) Childhood athletic pursuits and netball
(02:02) Transition to running at age 39
(03:14) Starting cross country and pole vaulting
(05:53) Competitive spirit and early dedicationto sport
(08:36) How community and encouragement shaped her journey
(10:07) Running in her 30s and balancing family life
(11:28) The moment she decided to start running during COVID
(12:12) The impact of Strava on motivation
(14:11) Managing race day nerves and mental strategies
(15:01) Building up her running volume and progress
(17:26) Joining coaching sessions and improving pace
(18:46) Her first half marathon and progressing to marathon training
(23:22) Transitioning from half to full marathon
(25:07) Overcoming injury setbacks and physio support
(27:00) The experience of her first marathon and physical challenges
(28:46) Race day mentality: pacing and adapting
(32:37) Handling unexpected race day events like menstrual issues
(41:23) Insights into her recent Ballarat marathon experience
(45:02) How mental toughness helps push through tough race moments
(51:05) What fuels her passion for running
(52:29) The story behind Run DCT and community building
(54:40) Perspectives on women in sport and gender equity
(56:51) Celebrating women’s achievements likeRachel Entricken’s record
(57:54) Advice to her younger self: never quit on passion
(58:25) Reflections on patience and body awareness in running
(59:16) Upcoming goals: Gold Coast Half, SydneyMarathon, World Championships
(60:40) Follow Rachel’s journey on Instagram@Run_with_Rach_
Keep up with Rachel: http://www.instagram.com/run_with_rach_
Keep up with the show: http://www.instagram.com/herpacepodcast
Your running journey is uniquely yours—patience, consistency, and community are your best allies. Never underestimate the power of mental resilience and listening to your body for long-term success. Thanks for listening!
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/anti-cafe
