The World Through Running

Life growing up was simple—just the five of us in a little house by the foothills of a National Park.

My parents never owned / drove a car. As a result, we walked, ran and relied on public transport most of our life.

So, when someone asks me “when did you start running?” I believe it started long before I could really remember. :)

My siblings and my parents; my home-town

My family motto was "Small Home, Big World," a phrase that encapsulated our approach to life and the values instilled in us from a young age.

This motto was not merely a saying; it represented a mindset and a way of living that allowed us to prioritise experiences over material possessions. In our modest one-bedroom home, which we shared as a family of five, we learned the importance of saving every spare penny we could find. Each coin saved was a step closer to our next adventure, whether it was a weekend camping trip in the woods or a day spent exploring the vibrant culture of a nearby city. Our small living space fostered a sense of togetherness, teaching us that it was not the size of our home that mattered, but the richness of our experiences and the bonds we formed.

Mum and Dad were our greatest advocates for adventure and natural treasures, always encouraging us to embrace the great outdoors. Hiking and running became cherished family activities that we looked forward to every Sunday. We would pack our backpacks with snacks and plenty of water, setting out early in the morning to explore some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring parts of our home country. These excursions were more than just physical activities; they were lessons in respect for nature, teaching us to appreciate the beauty around us while also understanding the importance of preserving it for future generations. Each trail we traversed was a new opportunity to connect with the environment, to marvel at the landscapes, and to bond as a family, sharing stories and laughter amidst the serenity of the wilderness.

As I transitioned into my 20s and 30s, the lessons of my childhood and the spirit of adventure instilled by my parents propelled me into new horizons. I was fortunate enough to travel the world, participating in numerous running events that took place in breathtaking locations across the globe. Each race was not just a competition; it was a chance to immerse myself in diverse cultures, meet fellow enthusiasts, and experience the unique rhythms of life in different countries. From the bustling streets of cities to the tranquil paths along coastal shores, running became a universal language that connected me with people from all walks of life. These experiences enriched my understanding of the world, reinforcing the belief that there is so much more to explore beyond the confines of our familiar surroundings.

Now, as I continue to stretch the boundaries of my own adventures, I feel a deep sense of responsibility to pass on this legacy to my children and to others I encounter. I want them to understand the beauty of exploration and the joy that comes from stepping outside of one's comfort zone. I have welcomed many friends I met along my running path into my home in Australia, embodying the spirit of my family's motto with a new twist:

"Big World Invited into My Home."

This phrase reflects my belief in the importance of hospitality and the value of sharing experiences with others. My home has become a hub of stories, laughter, and camaraderie, where people from various backgrounds come together to celebrate life, share their journeys, and inspire one another to continue exploring the vast world that awaits us.

With love,

Mia 💛

PS after losing my father to cancer three years ago, my mother continues to guide hundreds of mountaineers visiting from all over the globe. Mum has also established a memorial trail named after my Dad. The trail is a part of the oldest ultra-trail event in Europe that my Dad and family have covered many times. My sister was the youngest participant to complete the 100km race at only 19 years of age, back in 1997.