CHERYL MARTIN 43, MELBOURNE (VIC)

Scottish-born Cheryl ran her first 3km cross-country race in her teens, finding a rush of endorphins that made her want to try it again. After a few London marathons at 18 and 20, she then settled into jogging a couple times a week between study and work. Throughout her 20s and early 30s, the occasional half marathon was thrown in for good measure, and at this point Cheryl was an exclusive road runner.

Once landing in Australia, she signed up for Melbourne Marathon where she discovered a community of runners who also took to the trails. Altogether, they signed up for the Two Bays Trail Run, and as she hit offroad for training, Cheryl’s trail community continued to grow, joining the Dandenong Trail Runners.

“Sunday training sessions followed by brunch and chatter,” she explains when asked what she loves about it all.

“Long runs, with highs and lows, and conversations ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous. Many of us are running not just for physical health but also our mental, emotional and social wellbeing.

“I love the trails because roads are a bit monotonous and hard on the body these days. I enjoy being out in nature and challenging myself over mountains and varying terrain.”