Strong running in annual Suva marathon
MINISTRY of Fisheries permanent secretary Craig Strong believes running helps a person live a healthy life. Strong will be taking part in the 2019 Island Chill Suva Marathon. Strong was a rugby player in his younger days but everything changed after he was given an off-season training program. “The training program involved running three times a week,” he said. “After the first few weeks, I was hooked. The only problem was that running transformed fitness level and physique which meant my playing position went from tighthead prop to loose forward. “I quickly built up to running 10km a week and seven days a week for many years. I run because I love running. “I run because going for a run is my time out. I am not a competitive runner, I do it because I enjoy it. “I am rehabilitating an ankle injury. I am back to running three times a week so this 5km event is a good way to ease back into the swing of things. “In 2014 I suffered an Achilles injury which slowed me down to running a few times a week. I am back running three times a week and I walk on off days and do strength and flexibility training. “I enjoy a good 20km walk after mass on a Sundays.” Strong said he walked home after work. “It’s only about 8km but it is good for wellness and helps offset my carbon footprint. I have a really awesome physio and he pushes me through my rehab programs. “I love food, always have done. I tend to gain weight fast so I have to be careful and manage my calorie intake, but that doesn’t stop the feasting every Sunday,” he said. The Suva Marathon is an annual race. Its proceeds are distributed for worthy causes such as charitable organisations .