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Warkworth resident Karen Murphy is preparing to compete at the World Masters Mountain Running Championships in Janské Lázně, in the Czech Republic, later this month.
After winning a bronze medal at the same event in Italy last year, Karen hopes to take gold this year.
Her return to competitive running came just two years ago, more than 20 years after she retired due to an Achilles tendon injury.
It was a devastating blow for a strong competitor who had already won several national titles and captained teams that had won gold and silver medals at international competitions.
“I didn’t trip or sprain it, it literally just got sore, but I wasn’t able to train at a high level anymore,” Karen says.
“I saw lots of sports doctors but, after trying many treatments, I decided to stop in 2000 and, without a doubt, I felt pretty miserable.”
Now aged 61, Karen feels a long way from retirement and says this second chapter of her running career is just as enjoyable as the first.
“It wasn’t supposed to be a comeback, but I knew that if I wanted to do it, I would need some help.”
Enter Sarah Bliss, her coach and childhood friend.
“Sarah has played a key role in my physical and mental preparation. Working together, we managed to win in my first competition after returning.”
What began as a one-off event soon became the start of a new phase in her sporting career. Since then, Karen has collected 13 local titles.
“I do different kinds of running, but my preference is running in nature – in the bush, on the beach and in the mountains. I enjoy the scenery and it’s better for your body. I love running because I love challenging myself.
“But it’s the people you meet, the places you visit, the camaraderie and the friendships you develop that makes competing in these events so special.”
Although her family thinks she is “a little bit crazy” for taking on these challenges, Karen has learned to manage the pain in her Achilles tendon through treatments such as acupuncture and chiropractic care.
She describes running as her “happy place” and says there is always time for second chances.
