Summary: I have been blessed to run with some incredible individuals over the years and Ruth Wilson is one of them. Born in Hobart and an active individual from her early school years, Ruth has moved herself onto the pathway to elite distance running. However, like many athletes, Ruth’s story is convoluted and she has certainly not taken a straight line. Thanks to a ‘high-achiever’ personality and weight conscious, Ruth began to struggle with body image issues from a young age. It was in Adelaide during her university years, a student of radiography, that Ruth began to use dieting and running as a method to control her weight and to also assist her soccer performances. Somewhere along this journey she found a deep connection with running, going longer and faster until in 2013 she ran her debut marathon in a quick 3hrs15mins. Returning to Tasmania, Ruth joined a local running group and continued to immerse herself in her running and new career in radiography. Whilst she climbed quickly to prominence in many road racing and cross-country running events, for me, it was Ruth’s record-breaking run down the length of Tasmania’s spine on the Tassie Trail that pushed her into the ‘absolutely phenomenal’! However, Ruth’s restricted nutrition, increasing mileage and heavy racing schedule began to catch up with her. From niggles to some serious stress fractures, she was eventually forced to face her nutritional demons, entering a period of personal challenge and yet eventual reward as she fought to get her menstrual cycles and health back on track. Ruth is now coming back stronger and healthier than ever. An ambassador for Find Your Feet and a phenomenal role model for women and young girls in the sport of distance running, I know that Ruth will continue to inspire and empower us all with her story, attitude and humility. For me, this is a must listen podcast for any woman striving towards high endeavours, especially in the sport of distance running. It is for all high-achievers, male and female, as well as our parents and supporters. Finally, it is a fascinating insight into how we can overcome adversity and rise with resilience… to chase big dreams after setbacks.
