Race Team - Hannah Maher
Hello, I am Hannah! Currently, a trainee intern (final year medical student) based here in Christchurch. Running is genuinely one of my favorite things in the world. Those who know me well know that most things in my life can be improved by sending me on a run in the fresh air. I am definitely not the most natural or talented runner, but I love the endorphins and mental clarity I get every time. I started running with no encouragement after seeing my cousin and his first fifteen rugby mates train on our farm over their summer break. I grew up in the rural Rangitikei on a sheep and beef farm so most of my “training” was running on the farm. As I’ve got older not a lot has changed, I am still definitely not a natural runner, but I still love it. I have a competitive streak which means I love to push myself and consistently better myself including my running. My favorite place to run is still at home on the farm; the open spaces, freshest air, and stillness that comes from being so remote are hard to describe.
When I moved to Christchurch (nearly three years ago) I bought a bike and decided to try triathlon. I have just finished my first season of racing with a trip to the Long Distance World Champs in Ibiza Spain. I managed a great end to the season and came home with gold for my age group. Running is hands down still my favorite discipline and long runs are my favorite sessions, closely followed by the rare chance to add in some speed. My go-to running shoes are the Saucony Tempus, they’re the comfiest shoes I’ve ever had and have a wee bit of support if you need it. For racing, I have been racing the Saucony endorphin pros and loving them as well!
Career-wise I am hoping to be an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, I studied dentistry and am just finishing my medical degree currently (both required for this specialty). Between studies, I spent three years working in the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department at Waikato Hospital which was the inspiration to go back to study and continue on the long but rewarding pathway. Work can be incredibly busy and stressful at times, one of the ways I best deal with this is through running.
I am the biggest believer in runners high and the health benefits you get from running – both physically and especially mentally. As such I am super stoked to have been picked as part of the Frontrunner Columbo Race team and I am looking forward to promoting running as part of such a cool team!