09/12/2025
Full Circle on the Motatapu: Lessons from My First Marathon
Two years ago, I walked the Motatapu Trail Marathon — my very first marathon. Even though I wasn’t running, it was no stroll in the park. There were time limits to beat, hills that went on forever, and moments where I questioned my sanity more than once. But that event changed me. It taught me things about myself — emotionally, physically, spiritually — that I could never have learned anywhere else.
I went into that first Motatapu with enthusiasm… and a bit of naïve optimism. I had no idea how much there was to learn about fueling, hydration, pacing, or recovery. I thought electrolytes were the answer to everything (spoiler alert: they’re not). I didn’t eat enough, I didn’t drink enough water, and I definitely didn’t understand how important recovery nutrition was afterwards. Yet somehow, I made it through — blistered, sore, but proud.
Fast forward to now — I’m training again for the Motatapu Trail Marathon in March 2025. This time, though, I’m approaching it differently. I’m paying attention to my body, learning how to fuel properly, and finding that balance between electrolytes, food, and water. I’m training smarter, not just harder.
But here’s the twist — this year, I won’t be at the start line as a participant. I’ll be there as a volunteer. When I crossed that finish line two years ago, I promised myself that if I ever came back, I’d give back. Because volunteers are the heartbeat of events like this — the ones who cheer, encourage, hand out cups of water, and keep everyone going when the hills get tough.
So this year, it’s not about the medal or the miles. It’s about contribution, community, and gratitude. It’s about closing the loop and saying thank you — to the trail, to the people, and to the version of me who took that first step into the unknown two years ago.
The Motatapu has a way of reminding you that every journey matters — whether you’re walking, running, or handing out oranges at an aid station.
