By Charlotte Robinson

59-year-old Narelle Lee will be representing the Women of Steel, a multicultural group of women from across Australia, at this year’s Gold Coast Airport Marathon to be held on Sunday 3 July.

The Women of Steel aim to empower women of all ages and backgrounds to take charge of their lives.

For years Narelle had noticed friends and colleagues holding onto negative baggage and allowing the past to consume their present.

Narelle felt that Women of Steel was an appropriate name for a group of survivors who have chosen to take charge of their futures, set new goals and push their personal boundaries.

“The women have tackled various adversities throughout their lives, from domestic violence to obesity and depression, all daily issues that confront women on a global scale,” Narelle said.

Narelle lives in Sydney and acts as the group’s co-ordinator, ensuring all members are involved in local running clubs engaging in similar training sessions to ultimately complete the Gold Coast Airport Marathon.

Narelle’s message to other women facing adversity is “to always think about what else you can do to keep moving forward – it may be a detour, but it still takes you in the right direction”.

Although a self-confessed “back of the pack runner”, Narelle isn’t letting speed stop her.

Narelle may not be the fastest runner, but she is using the marathon to prove a point to countless other women suffering or overcoming adversity.

“If I can run the Gold Coast Airport Marathon, anyone can accomplish their goals,” Narelle said.

One Victorian member has a non-running goal; she is currently overseeing a program for 16-year-old Aboriginal girls to promote positive lifestyles free from alcohol and drug abuse that are prevalent in many rural communities.

Despite being a small group, these women are making a significant mark in society and are in the final stages of creating a documentary trailer promoting their group.

If you are interested in running alongside the Women of Steel, contact Narelle at narelle.lee@bigpond.com.