The Dunoon Run Club meets for social runs in the village of Dunoon. Woody founded the club with some friends and you will see notifications on Facebook for the latest series of social runs — currently Saturday mornings at 7 am.

Woody has unleashed his writing talent on a “Spotlight on a Runner” series of articles, starting with Bronwen who has been running for the last 4 years. 

At 61, Bronwen’s running journey has taken her from quiet village streets to the world’s most iconic marathon courses. She first began running in her mid-20s, participating in triathlons alongside her husband, Rob. Back then, her longest run was 10 kilometres. However, after a long break and life’s many demands, she stepped away from the sport and became, in her words, “seriously unfit.”

In December 2020, Bronwen received a Garmin watch for Christmas. It sparked a new chapter in her life. Her first recorded run on March 17, 2021, was a 4.7-kilometre loop down Blue Fig Road to Rocky Creek and back.

“I remember being so proud of myself for running that far,” she recalls, still reflecting on the joy of that moment.

Since then, running has become a central part of Bronwen’s life. The most rewarding aspect has been “being part of a running group who have kept me motivated, inspired me, and encouraged me to keep trying.” The sense of community has been key to her success, pushing her to reach new milestones, even on tough days. Bronwen has also competed in numerous half marathon races, including the Gold Coast and in New Zealand. In addition, she completed a 25k trail race at Noosa and participated in numerous Rogaine events, both on and offroad. These diverse challenges have helped her build strength, resilience, and a deep passion for running that continues to grow with each race.

In 2024, Bronwen hit new personal bests. She ran 26 minutes and 33 seconds at Ballina Parkrun and completed the Darrel Chapman Fun Run half marathon in 2 hrs, 5 mins, and 18 seconds. She’s also an active member of her local Hash House Harriers group, adding a social and adventurous twist to her runs.

For the first time in her running career, Bronwen is following a structured training plan, with her eyes set on the Chicago Marathon in October 2024, followed by the New York Marathon.

“I was really nervous about starting a plan,” she admits.

“I’ve been running for a long time but didn’t consider myself sufficiently disciplined.” However, the structure has been working wonders.

“It’s really helped that Rob is doing the same training plan, albeit at a much faster pace,” she says with a smile. These major marathons are set to be the pinnacle of her running journey so far.

What keeps her motivated through it all?

“I’m thankful that I’m healthy enough to run and that running keeps me healthy, both physically and mentally,” she reflects. It’s a simple yet powerful reminder of why she runs, and it’s what drives her every day.

For those just starting their own running journey, Bronwen has this advice: “Find someone else to keep you company or commit to something like Parkrun, just to get out there and get started. Then run your own pace and distance. Start slowly, run-walk at your own pace, and find a way of enjoying it that works for you—whether that means listening to a story or a podcast or music, or just enjoying the environment and socialising with others. Be patient and kind to yourself.”

With both the Chicago and New York Marathons on the horizon, Bronwen’s journey is proof that it’s never too late to take on new challenges. Whether on quiet village roads or the bustling streets of major cities, Bronwen’s love for running continues to grow—and her story is one of perseverance, joy, and the power of community. 

This article appeared in the  Dunoon and District Gazette, October-November 2024.