A stint in the Australian air force taught candy hardy how to train and keep fit, and it is something that continues to be a big part of her life today.
The mother of three children and grandmother of seven, who is looking forward to her new home at GemLife Tweed Waters over-50s lifestyle resort, is now 56 and has, for the second consecutive year, signed up to participate in the 2022 Gold Coast Running Festival.
“I was in the GemLife team last year and it was such a lot of fun, I was quick to enrol again this year,” said Candy.
Fit and fabulous, Candy has been keen on sports and keeping fit since she was a child.
Swimming has always been her first love, but she also played in the Campbelltown District First Division A Grade women’s soccer team at the age of 17.
“I had some speed so played as a right winger, and when I was in the Australian Air Force, I excelled in running with everyone saying I was very hard to beat,” said Candy who has also competed in Sydney’s City to Surf and undertaken many other runs, walks and trekking adventures.
She also ran 2.4 kilometres in 9.5 minutes during an annual training test in the Air Force but says these days she prefers to walk rather than run as it is just as good for fitness. Swimming also remains one of her favourite sporting interests.
Candy admits to loving a challenge and is looking forward to this year’s Gold Coast Running Festival in which she plans to walk 10km.
“I competed in the 5km section last year which wasn’t that long, so I’m upping it to 10km this year.”
The atmosphere and people cheering on competitors are among the many things Candy enjoys about the event.
“It’s just a fantastic way to be active, enjoy the great outdoors and support the community. Everyone can run or walk at their own pace too so there is no pressure, just a terrific day out with other current and future residents of GemLife,” said Candy.
“Some will be doing it for the first time but there is a feeling of comradeship that builds between us all. I just love people, having a chat and doing fun things. I don’t take life too seriously and I guess it’s fair to say I can take a joke and laugh at myself.”
Candy said the fitness factor of taking part in the running festival can also inspire people to participate and no one should be afraid to step out of their comfort zone and have a go.
“We are not meant to sit in a chair all our lives. No one should be afraid to try something new and I’ll be there at their side to cheer them on!” The inspirational grandmother is not one to let a good opportunity pass her by whether it be something to improve her fitness, or a new home at GemLife Tweed Waters.
“I met a lady at Chinderah who had been one of the first contract holders at Tweed Waters. She told me about the resort and that it was in one of my favourite spots on the water. I rang up straight away and put my deposit down. It is everything I have ever wanted and besides buying a beautiful new home I can also ride my bike along the waterfront, put a boat in the water and sail around to my favourite tavern for a drink. What could be better?”
GemLife Tweed Waters and GemLife Gold Coast contract holders are invited to join the GemLife team for the Gold Coast Running Festival. See page 37 for details.