Born to run and challenge himself
Running is one of my favourite things to do in the world. When I run I get into a zone; it’s like catching a good wave, you just want it to keep going. My favourite time of the year is the last two terms at school, because that’s when we have cross-country and athletics.
Recently I completed the Kaitaia 12k, run/walk in one hour and two minutes. It was my personal best time to date. I started running this race four years ago, when I was seven. It’s a funny story now.
Mum and I were only supposed to be walking the 4km distance, but Mum didn’t get to tell me that. I asked to run, and just like Forrest Gump, I didn’t stop running. That year I was the ‘lost kid’ who ran 12.5km in one hour and 15 minutes… by mistake, and without training.
Since then I have run it every year. My aim has been to beat the previous year, and so far I have achieved that. I have been in competition with myself, and am always striving to create new personal bests.
My parents value a strong work ethic, so it’s something that I also strive for. I can see and understand what that will do for me in the future. I work on our farm without expectation of payment, which means when I do get paid it’s a bonus. Whether it’s running, working, school, or just anything in my life, I’m always going to try and do my best and just worry about me.
I like to support my friends in their talents. I like to read, learn, and try new things. I like to challenge myself. I believe that putting in the extra effort, making the most of every opportunity, and going the extra mile (or kilometre) will help me as an adult.
Anything worth having is worth working hard for. If you want it, you gotta go and get it.