Growing up on a farm, I have always been around dogs and led an active, outdoor lifestyle. I have a huge passion for running and love nothing better than to be out and about exploring trails with Lyra, my energetic, fun loving Hungarian Vizsla.

I qualified as a teacher in 1995 so am used to inspiring and motivating others to get the very best out of themselves. After becoming a headteacher, I recognised the importance of exercise in order to maintain a good work/life balance. This led me to running my first marathon across the Polar Ice Cap in Greenland. Coming 2nd, I discovered I had a talent for running and having totally ‘caught the bug’ have not stopped since. I have run more than 35 marathons, including ultra marathons, all over the world.

In 2012, I combined my teaching skills and passion for health and fitness to become a qualified Level 3 Fitness instructor and Personal Trainer. Inspired by my enthusiasm for running, many of my clients take up running and get so much satisfaction from achieving things they never thought possible.

With canicross in mind, my dream of owning my own four legged running buddy came true when Lyra joined my family. Lyra loves to run and will often team up with my Dad’s English Springer Spaniel, Gracie, to form a formidable canicross team.

Now a certified DogFit Canicross trainer, I am keen to introduce people to the social sport of canicross and help them realise that anyone can do this regardless of their starting fitness level. Meeting other likeminded dog lovers who also love running is a great way to make new friends.

Let's go Canicross!

Yolanda and Lyra