The Evolution of a Fiordland Mountain Runner RUNNING AND BELONGING IN A LANDSCAPE

I had a dream that I could be a mountain runner. I would run over hills and up mountain slopes with ease.

I would rise each morning at the light of dawn and step triumphantly into the rising sun – ready to tackle any challenge in my way.

I would get stronger each day and go further, higher than ever before. I would make my home in the mountains of Fiordland, my favourite landscape, and traverse its difficult, steep terrain with grace.

I would find inspiration with each sunrise and every new vista. I would be unstoppable.

This dream came to me while running across the Heaphy Track in winter, unavoidably in a heavy downpour. I needed a bit of inspiration and all-of-a-sudden there it was: a vision that propelled my legs to move faster.

The run became exciting, my pace quickened, and I steamed back to Gouland Downs Hut, animated by thoughts of the future. I vowed then and there to make it happen. I would make this dream