When I finished my first marathon I wanted my PE teacher to be there to witness it.

I wasn't naturally good at sport, but were those who were good at sport naturals? Some maybe, but not all of them. some came from families whose parents spent money on lessons. That sure helps.

And there's nothing like a family member pitting you down by calling you fat. That's is the nastiest of put downs!

I learned to run after marriage. MY husband was an athlete. He played squash, tennis, and then took up running. I decided if that was the case, then I too should run.

I was petty hopeless. I couldn't eve run downhill, let alone on the flat.

I set myself small challenges, then increased them, and within a month or so I was able to sustain a few kilometres.

Eventually we moved to PNG, where I ran my first marathon.

We used to meet up with friends for squash on Sunday mornings. I was so bad and one woman loved to play me because she always beat me.

Then my husband offered some coaching. Though I never became an A-grade player, i improved out of sight.

You see, when people believe in you, you step up to the plate and all you can do is improve.