Katrina fires up for her first 12km run

TheGo’s very own Katrina Youngman laced up her runners and slapped on her best Superwoman outfit (as you do) for her first 12km run at Run Townsville last weekend. So how did she go? Like a superwoman of course. Albeit with slightly sore feet…

“12km was definitely out of my comfort zone, but I’m glad I gave it a go; and now I know I can do it again” – Katrina Youngman

What made you decide to try the 12km for the first time? A bit of a mix between wanting a challenge and supporting a friend who was keen to do the 12km.

What did you do to train beforehand? I’m not a runner, or athletic. A year ago I could barely run a kilometre without stopping. I’ve slowly been trying to get better over the past year or so, but still haven’t been very consistent (and I still sound like I’m having an asthma attack every time I run). I love heading along to parkrun at Riverway, and have been trying to do Castle Hill once a week. I’m averaging around 5km a run, so 12km was definitely out of my comfort zone, but I’m glad I gave it a go; and now I know I can do it again.

How would you describe the experience? What were the best and worst parts? It was awesome — I’m definitely keen to do it again, and seriously considering getting into a more regular training routine to start doing more events! Was great to have everyone cheering you on, and all the runners were really friendly and supportive. The worst bit? Going up the hills obviously. The best bit? I love running downhill — it’s the only time I can overtake anyone 🙂 The start was also great as there were so many people, and an overall fun atmosphere! And the end was fun as well as, even though I just wanted to stop and walk, I’m so glad I pushed myself to keep going and get across the line.

Would you change anything next time? I’d invest in some better running shoes! I’m finding that, as I’m starting to practise longer runs (7km+), my feet start hurting towards the end. And then I end up having to take a couple of days off to recover.

What’s your advice to others trying a new event or distance for the first time? Just give it a go! The feeling of accomplishment after an event makes it all worth it. And, before long, you’ll be looking for more events to sign up for!

See TheGo’s calendar of events to plan your next challenge.

And the Run Townsville results are…

There were more than 2,800 goers who completed the inaugural Run Townsville event on Sunday, June 1; choosing from a 6km or 12km walk, run or roll. A total of $96,290 was raised for the redevelopment of the Townsville Hospital Children’s Ward, which was matched by event organisers, the Cotton On Foundation, to bring the total contribution to $192,580.

Natasha Cole took out the 6km event for the females, in a time of 24:21. She wasn’t far behind the male winner, Julian Picot, who finished in 22:00. Liz Davies was the first female to cross the line for the 12km course in 54:26 and Jake Vockins won the 12km male event in 44:00.

Find more race results here.

Instagram #runtownsville photo feed

It was smiles all round on the day – check out our feed below of some pictures from Instagram.