There’s a quote that says, “You don’t always need a plan. Sometimes you just need to breathe, trust, let go and see what happens.” And for Year 12 student, Ellen Fromont, this quote really resonates. Because although her stellar cross country results over the years hasn’t been something she thought she could actually achieve or ever planned to achieve, her can-do approach and willingness to just give it her all without knowing what may happen has been what’s taken her to new and greater heights.
Ellen is known for being a formidable runner who, despite continuing to do very well, is very modest when talking about her achievements. She placed 1st in the College’s Year 12 girls cross country held 2 weeks ago and when asked about how she felt getting to the finish and finding out that she had won, said, “I didn’t think I was coming first, because there was a girl in front of me but when they told me it was so exciting because I didn’t realize and I was so tired.”
Ellen says that she looks forward to taking part in cross country every year and goes into the race with a desire to just give it a go and added, “I don’t do it to win but because I love the fun and thrilling vibes that the run provides.”
Ellen also likes to practice a couple of weeks in advance of a race by doing small runs. Other events where she has competed include in last year’s Auckland Central and East Secondary School Cross Country Championships where she finished 29th in the Under 16 Intermediate Girls category and also last year in the Auckland Secondary Schools Cross Country Champs where she put in a tremendous effort. Ellen also plays for the College’s Senior Girls B Netball team and likes to go to the gym on a regular basis, doing a lot of strength training.
Ellen comes from a family of runners and loves to do a lot of running outside of school, often taking part in long distance fun runs. She is a strong advocate for keeping healthy and fit and shared a piece of advice for those wanting to get off the couch. She said, “Finding something that motivates you is the key.”
Ellen makes the most of her talent and intends to continue running and playing a role for her netball team.
Shontelle Matano
