Each week, on James’s travels he will be keeping an eye out for likeminded people out for a run/walk – basically anyone “getting active”.

Each week we will run short stories on these people and what inspires them. This week we have Kara Donnelly.

What is your name, age and occupation?

Kara: Kara Donnelly, 33, Paralegal.

Crazy: What is your exercise regime today?

Kara: To be honest, I have been slacking quite a bit lately but with the Cayman Tri and Marathon on the horizon, it is time to buckle down. I plan on running an ambitious 12 miles later tonight with hopes of finishing it in one piece.

Crazy: What is your main motivation for running/being active?

Kara: I love the sense of achievement I feel when I've run a long distance and the ability to say I actually finished a race when I never thought I would be able to. I had always "heard" about "Triathlons" and "Marathons" but never paid much attention and the thought of entering one didn't even cross my mind. I always assumed the people entering these kinds of races were from some other planet.

Crazy: How long have you been leading an ‘active lifestyle’?

Kara: I'd have to say I've always been "active" but it's only been in the past year that I've led an "active lifestyle." It is hard to find a good balance between your social life and your training but going out partying all the time will certainly not help you finish a triathlon! Apparently eating tons of pizza and ice cream doesn't help either. Go figure :-)

Crazy: What piece of advice would you give for people who think “I can’t run”?

Kara: Don't do it. Don't even think about starting that jog/walk program and certainly do not think about entering a race! I won't even mention that fact that you will end up meeting a ton of amazing people at these races who are more than happy to help you with your training and provide you with heaps of encouragement and support. If you start, you won't be able to stop. It is extremely addictive and before you know it you will be wanting to run that extra mile or be aiming to hit a new PR. You will even have a good time doing it!