Downshifting Abroad

Benefits of Life in New Zealand - 1 - Find a Sport!

After more than 10 years in rural Spain, and over 1 year in New Zealand, I completed my first duathlon (run, bike, run) at the young age of 41. Never too late to try a new country and a new experience. A week before the event I duly completed my evening training after work, saw the night was drawing in so thought ‘no need for a cool down’, hopped in the car, drove home, only to find my back locked and I could barely climb out of the car. A large amount of money later and a huge grin from the friendly osteopath, ’see you after the event…’ left me doubtful of my ability to start the duathlon. I’d trained not just to ‘do it’, but to ‘do it well’. The tremendous support of work colleagues and the general view of ‘Go,Girl, Go!’ convinced me to give it all. The atmosphere was fantastic. Over 450 women entered of all shapes and sizes and my usual English reserve went by the wayside as we lined up to start. If you’ve never done such an event, find one, train for it and then just do it!