Running with someone else can be that extra motivation you sometimes need; to push yourself faster to keep up, to save face and not give up on the big hill, or simply to go for that run you might have otherwise talked yourself out of. So far on my travels, I shared runs with my mum and dad. Until this week, where I have been a super social runner!

One thing I love about New Zealand and Queenstown is the number of outdoorsy and active people you meet. Which has lead auto a new phenomenon of Rosarunningaway: the running date! Respect to anyone who opts for this brave date choice. Are you ready for you and your date to see each other all sweaty, breathless and red? Assuming you haven’t already… Luckily my date and I were pretty well matched pace and fitness-wise. A shared penchant for running is clearly a bonus too. But before I get all Carrie Bradshaw on you, I will leave out the finer details of this conquest. And move on to yesterday’s running mate-date!

Yesterday saw blue skies and rays of sunshine in Queenstown. Lake Hayes, the baby neighbour of mighty Lake Wakatipu, is a running destination I’d been meaning to tick off my list for a while. So my friend, colleague and fellow iron pumper Leroy and I headed over there for an afternoon run. Sat between Frankton and Arrowtown, it’s just a short drive out of town. This new running spot didn’t disappoint; great views and lovely loop track around the lake made for the perfect run. And a good old gossip meant the hour-long run didn’t grow old. 

Ok so I was flagging slightly by the end; some injuries sustained whilst trampolining the previous day had left me at less than peak fitness. I must admit I was pleased to reach the car park and see Arnie waiting for us. The run was followed by a less than successful gym sesh thanks to my tramp-ailments. But looking back, I’ve had some nice runs this week, sharing them with someone else makes them that little bit more special. So, anyone fancy going for a run?!