Last weekend, the 36-yearold runner and coach was the first woman home in the 100km Ultra at Northburn, near Cromwell.
The Northburn Ultra marathon, which takes place over two days, is described by runners on its website as a ‘‘true suffer-fest from start to finish’’, but Mrs Presswood said the goal was not to suffer through it.
‘‘I do it because it’s something I really enjoy. If it stops being fun then I’m not doing it right. I don’t have to suffer any more. Well, it’s far less suffering anyway.’’
The sports nutritionist and holistic coach moved from Auckland to Alexandra five years ago, where she and business partner, Teresa Noble, established a coaching service for endurance athletes.
The pair also recently bought a gym in Alexandra.
Mrs Presswood said having completed several ultra marathons, including winning the Northland 100 in July last year, preparation was key to race day success, she said.
‘‘I wouldn’t say the ultra is a easy race by any means but definitely having good hydration and nutrition is key. Once you nail that, everything changes. Marathons reward preparation and this was the most ready I’ve felt.’’
The run was beautiful, she said.
‘‘To see Clyde in one direction and Cromwell in the other with the sky opening up in front of you . . .it [running] helps clear my mind. I enjoy the feeling and how it positively impacts me physically and mentally.’’
Her next race effort is focused around organising the Alexandra Airport Carousel Backyard Ultra.
The last person standing ultra marathon involves participants running a 6.71km lap around the airport, on the hour, every hour, until one person remains.
This would be Mrs Presswood’s second year codirecting the Carousel Backyard Ultra, which she and fellow runner and friend, Tom Heath, started last year.
Her advice to registered runners was to just give it a go. ‘‘It’s a great way to challenge yourself in a safe, supportive environment, whether it’s one lap or a hundred.’’ The event has more than 70 entries so far. Part of each entry fee is donated to I Am Hope and Bowel Cancer New Zealand.
The run takes place at Alexandra Airport on April 11.
There will be no disruptions to airport operations or roads and all pathways and lanes will remain open to the public.
