Marathon milestone

A Broome mum has proved “anyone can do anything” after completing her 16-week Couch to Marathon challenge at the London Marathon.

Sarah Woods began her quest in January to better herself, take on a new challenge and make her five-year-old son, Alex, proud.

Ms Woods said the Couch to Marathon journey was without a doubt the hardest physical challenge she had ever taken on.

“I wanted to show my son Alex that you can do anything you set your mind to if you just keep trying,” she said.

“Being a good role model for him is really important to me.

“I was also facing some difficult challenges in my life and this was a way to positively refocus and overcome them.”

Ms Woods said going from training in Broome’s wet season to London’s chilly 14C days was an interesting experience.

“I remember shaking from cold at the start line and people were asking me if I was nervous,” she said.

“All that anxiety and fear melted away once I heard the crowds cheering my name and saw kids lined up along the course giving out high fives.

“There were some tough moments, when muscle pain kicked in and the wind felt like it was pushing me backwards but every time I needed it there was someone there giving me encouragement and telling me I could do it.

“The thought of Alex’s proud face at the finish line also kept me smiling.”

Throughout her training, Ms Woods received overwhelming support from her friends, family and community members while supporting charities that promote positive mental health through donations.

“We’ve raised almost $2000 so far which is just amazing to see,” Ms Woods said.

“Anyone really can do anything.”