Yvonne is a passionate runner whose simple goals are to keep on running and to be able to inspire others to run. She only started running in 2013 and had completed the recent Tokyo Marathon with a decent time of 3hrs 50min.
JustRunLah!: How would you introduce yourself to Singapore running community?
Yvonne: Hello, I’m nobody special, just an ordinary working adult that has strong passion towards running. A runner who likes to be connected with all the runners around the world.
JustRunLah!: When did you first pick up running (what age) and what inspired you to do so?
Yvonne: I had my first 10km run in Nike We Run 2013 (age: 24), I was in the downtime and my friend just helped to sign me up even though I had no prior running experience. That’s the turning point, the feeling was so good. That same friend told me about Tokyo Marathon. I read and I was so fascinated about it, and thus I began to run towards this dream race.
JustRunLah!: Would you say that one needs to have a certain mindset to take up running as a sport/exercise activity? If so, how must a runner – whether a newbie or experienced – prepare himself or herself mentally?
Yvonne: I personally think that you must first enjoy running to be a runner. You enjoy running, you keep running, then good timing and physique will come along. Of course, please don’t compare yourself with other runners but take little steps. I would say no matter what goals you are training for, just don’t forget how much you love running and be humble. 🙂
JustRunLah!: What would you consider to be your biggest running achievement so far?
Yvonne: My biggest running achievement so far is when some runners told me that I inspired them to run more, run better and take up the challenge they once thought is impossible. This sense of achievement lasts longer than a PB.
JustRunLah!: You ran a great 3hr 50min for the 42km race. How long did it take you to train for that?
Yvonne: I have been consistently running for 2 years without a proper training scheme. I just run because it makes me happy. Only recently I begin to learn from the basics. When I got my first GPS watch, I began to learn about my pace. I also received useful tips and advice from other runners and different running groups. I think putting in the right effort is more important than the duration!
JustRunLah!: What advice would you give to someone taking that 42km? Just Run Lah?
Yvonne: A very commonly heard advice, “Listen to your body”. But when everything seems right, JUST keep RUNning LAH.
JustRunLah!: Do you have any pre-race rituals? What goes through your head every time you run?
Yvonne: I can’t think of any pre-race rituals I have. Before race begins, this always go through my head: This is my choice so I’m here. Whoo!.
JustRunLah!: What is your mantra for when the going gets tough in a race?
Yvonne: Run Like No Tomorrow.
JustRunLah!: What do you think makes a runner, especially someone who keeps at it, put feet to the ground day after day?
Yvonne: It could be their lifestyle or habit, but to me is.. The passion! .
JustRunLah!: Finish this sentence: Running is…
Yvonne: Running is a lifetime journey.
In Tokyo Marathon Gate 5 Pen H while waiting for the flag off, I’ve spoken to a Japanese senior lady with my broken Japanese. She is in the event alone. She is in her sixties and she has been running marathon for 10 years and she will still be running. How amazing is that 🙂 I also know some veteran runners in Singapore running community, their passion always inspire me..
She would always inspire me and make me a better person
Ljhbee