Genevieve Morris has laced up her runners to train for a half marathon in December.
The Seymour College teacher will hit the road in Melbourne with her mum for the Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival.
Ms Morris has been using running as a distraction and way to get out of the house during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“My parents and I like to try and do a fun run each year but that hasn’t been happening during COVID,” she said.
“I enjoy having a goal to work towards, and 21km will certainly push me because it will be the farthest I’ve ever run.
“I’ve also been separated from my family throughout various lockdowns over the past year and a bit, so having an event to work towards where I am guaranteed to see my family is nice.”
Ms Morris said teaching during the pandemic was difficult and running gave her an outlet.
“Remote learning has been tough on parents, students and teachers. We’re all working with something we weren’t prepared for,” she said.
“But with the support of other teachers, parents and the willingness of the kids to push through it, we’ve made the best of it.
“Having a goal in mind has been good for me when everything got too much. I can get out running and forget about things for a while.
“I’m really excited for the half marathon and can’t wait to achieve the goal I set with my mum.”
The Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival is on December 11 and 12.
For more information, visit melbournemarathon.com.au