Mother's Day Interviews - Part 2 - Christine & Cass

We continue to shine a light on the wonderful women out there who raise children and find the time, energy and passion to participate in sport and exercise. Today, you'll meet Christine and Cass.

First we chatted with Christine Fahey: @run100_2022 

What is your sport/exercise of choice?

Running, recently trail running. I have always dabbled in running but only became serious after the birth of my 3rd child. I was overweight and unhappy and used it as a challenge and me-time. I entered my first race soon after and became hooked. I love that I can run solo or with friends and my kids can come too. My youngest son usually rides his bike while I run.

How many children do you have?

I have 3 of my own kids and 2 step kids.
Mine are 20, 18 and 8 and my step kids are 10, 12.

What challenges have you faced as a mother in regards to your fitness/exercise?

Not feeling guilty for taking time to myself. Also planning my runs around everything else I need to juggle as a fulltime employee with a husband who works nights.
My oldest and youngest children both have neuro diversities which also make things challenging.

How have you overcome this challenge?

White boards!!!! Lots of multitasking and flexibility when needed.

What has been your greatest achievement in your sport/exercise?

Oh I have achieved so much! I find completing the UTA50 just as satisfying as pb’s at Parkrun though.
I think it's important to not only acknowledge the big in your face achievements but also the small “I got out the door today” ones!!

How do you incorporate exercise into your daily/weekly routine?

While my son is at Karate twice a week I run and I keep Sunday mornings available for trail running with my friends. This is just as much for my mental health as it is for training though!! My son and I often complete a garage workout together.

Do your children have any involvement in your exercise/sport?

All of my kids are active but not in running. I have 1 basket-baller, 1 netballer and 1 who was footy mad but has just switched to karate. They are all supportive of me and I often see them at my finish lines cheering me on.

Do you have any future goals?

I did want to do UTA100 this year but it wasn't to be, I will complete it soon though!

What advice would you give to any mothers wanting more physical activity but may be unsure as to where to start?

You are important! Schedule yourself some time for your passions, it's great role modelling for your kids. Start with small goals and work your way up from there and find a group of like minded people

Anything you would like to add?

Your journey is our own, stop comparing yourself! And enjoy the ride, not just the destination. 
https://www.ultratrailaustralia.com.au/
https://www.parkrun.com.au/

Next up: Cass Underwood: @kitty_cass_runs

What is your sport/exercise of choice?

Running. I started in early 2019 when a friend convinced me to join Parkrun

How many children do you have?

7 children: 25, 20, 14, 12, 9, 7, 4

What challenges have you faced as a mother in regards to your fitness/exercise?

Time. Finding the time to fit in training around kids, work, school holidays, illnesses and family time. It’s definitely a struggle

How have you overcome this?

By making time, setting out a schedule, training after school drop off, and taking kids for walks. Including the kids has helped me stay active

What has been your greatest achievement in your sport/exercise?

Becoming an ultra marathoner in 2021 at Blackall 50

How do you incorporate exercise into your daily/weekly routine?

Taking every opportunity I can. Whether that’s on the treadmill, squats, walking around the yard/up the street and just being as active as I can be 

Do your children have any involvement in your exercise/sport?

My 9 year old daughter loves volunteering at Parkrun with me and the other younger kids walk or ride their scooters/bikes when I go out with them

Do you have any future goals?

I have a score to settle at Blackall and want to get a better time. I also have a goal of a 50 miler, but at the moment due to health issues it will have to be put on hold. However it’s still a goal and I will achieve it!

What advice would you give to any mothers wanting more physical activity but may be unsure as to where to start?

Involve your kids! Get your kids excited to be active, challenge them and make it fun. Take them to Parkrun or even out on their bikes/scooters with you if you want to go for a longer walk/run. The more your kids see you being active, they’ll want to join you and it will make it easier for you to get out when they know what you’re doing. 

How does running make you feel?

Running is my way of escape, it’s my time. It’s my way of coping by giving myself a mental health check as well as time to think, reflect and just be. As mums we are always wanted/needed by everyone around us but we also need time for us. Time for us to just let go of our day to day life, even for an hour or so. 

Anything you would like to add?

Being part of a community helps inspire me. I am part of the Mum Runner community who put on new, fun challenges each month. Mum Runner donates towards a different charity with each challenge: charities for children's hospitals, breast cancer, heart health, and many many more.  
Find your tribe, and you'll have friends for life. 
https://www.parkrun.com.au/
https://mumrunner.com/

Thanks for joining us for Part 2 of our Mother's Day Interviews. Join us for Part 3 soon. Missed Part 1? Catch up here.