Changing Paces

Fleur Mealing Finds Her Stride In Queenstown.

Despite being 5ft 2 [1.57m] I have always had quite a stride. I would argue it’s my mum’s doing, often recounting to moaning slowpokes that if you didn’t walk fast in my household you would get left behind.

Naturally, she was the first person that came to mind to come with me on an exciting, yet daunting, trip down south to Central Otago for the Air New Zealand International Queenstown Marathon.

Although we both lead active lives, neither of us had ever participated in a marathon, nor did we feel up to running it, but several family members assured us that walking the Cigna 10km was more than achievable.

Arriving in Queenstown at least a day before was essential. With a 5.45am start on race day, it was great to get to the hotel and settle in at least 12 hours prior. As I waited for my mum, who was driving down from Christchurch, I made myself at home in Hotel St Moritz Queenstown.

Well and truly in active relaxer mode, I donned a cosy wool blanket, gobbled up the cheese platter that was delivered to my room on arrival and all too easily fell asleep on the couch!