By Ashley Macrae

Spring Mountain, Queensland mother of two Alexandra O’Keefe is on track to run her debut ASICS Half Marathon at this year’s Gold Coast Airport Marathon, to be held 2 – 3 July, in an effort to empower other women to take on a personal challenge.

The 33-year-old’s passion for running ignited three years ago after the birth of her second child.

“I took the first step and joined my local running club ‘Springfield Runners Group’,” Alexandra said.

“I’ve met a fantastic coach who has created a very achievable training plan and so far it’s just been amazing.”

Alexandra’s journey to the ASICS Half Marathon start line began when she completed the Sunshine Coast 10km and the Twilight Running Festival 10km in 2013 and now she has her eyes set on more than doubling the distance this July.

Despite juggling family commitments, Alexandra manages to fit in three training sessions a week including interval and strength training, a 5 to 10 kilometre run and once a month, she completes a 10 to 15 kilometre run.

“So far the training for the ASICS Half Marathon is going well, but I guess as the event date approaches, I’m feeling a little nervous,” Alexandra said.

“I’m not necessarily aiming for a fast time come race day, my goal is to run the race under three hours.”

Alexandra has her loving and supportive husband to thank for encouraging her to attend her running club each week and strive to achieve her personal goals.

“If I have the guts to do it as a mother of two children, than anyone can sign up and give it a go,” Alexandra said.

Early bird entries for the 2016 Gold Coast Airport Marathon finish Thursday 28 April (11:59pm AEST).