Running is life for Bluff enthusiast

WHILE running has its physical health benefits, for therapeutic reasons, you can be sure to find cross country athlete, Lorraine Ogle-Davies, on the track.

Although running and fitness have always been her hobbies, the 59-year-old has a newfound love for running. This is after losing three family members recently in death. She said her commitment to the sport gives her time for reflection and meditation.

“I can honestly say that running is therapeutic, it lifted me out of my deep, dark hole of grief. I utilise the time I spend running feeling the breeze of the wind, enjoying the time for my thoughts and self,” she said.

In 2016, Lorraine underwent two major surgeries to remove a tumour she had wrestled with for about16 years. Running had to take a back seat, which devastated the Bluff resident, who did not ever imagine that she would resume it again.

Through a strong mental attitude, prayers, and moral support, she was eventually able to heal and overcome adversity.

“After rehabilitation, the all-clear was given by my surgeon. It was then that I contacted the grandmaster athlete, Blanche Moila, to enquire if she would be willing to coach me. I was elated when she agreed. I give gratitude to the almighty God for aligning me with an athletic coach such as her.

“She has been unwavering in her time, commitment and love that she has invested in me to perfect my running style. In the famous words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, ‘The first wealth is health’,” she said.

Cycling, hockey and tennis are Lorraine’s other sports interests. Off the track, the Hollywoodbets Athletics Club member enjoys travelling, the outdoors, arts and crafts, all things gardening, music, theatre, as well as reading and writing.

The mother of three, two of which have since passed, and grandmother to five children, is currently working on an autobiography. Although she could not elaborate anything on it as yet, as the exclusive rights are with the publisher, she is very excited about the book.

“My family extends only to myself, hence the onus is on me to be disciplined, which I am. I found training during the hard lockdown as both positive and negative. Initially, it was strangely uncomfortable having to run with a mask, but in time, with knowledge and insight, I soon adapted to the new normal for runners and sundry.

“The positive, however, was gratitude that I could still maintain a level of fitness, despite the staggered interruptions. The plus to lockdown restrictions and the relaxation and approval of outdoor activity was that I saw people who rarely exercised before taking to the road walking. Thus applying healthy lifestyles – some of which are still religiously active, this warms my heart,” she added.