#WinWell Jess Stenson

Summary

Jess Stenson, a marathon runner and mother of two, reflects on the importance of character and attitude in sports, emphasizing that success is about more than just results. After giving birth, she aimed for the Olympic qualifying standard but found herself adjusting her goals as fellow competitors raised the bar. Stenson's proudest achievement was running a personal best at the Deo Marathon while managing family life. She highlights the significance of support, especially from Sassy, which eased financial pressures during her training. Stenson advocates for a holistic view of athlete development, recognizing that off-track experiences can enhance performance and lead to more fulfilling lives.

Takeaways

• 😀 Winning well emphasizes character and how athletes support each other, not just the final results.
• 🏃‍♀️ Jess Stenson is a dedicated marathon runner and mother of two who exemplifies this philosophy.
• 📅 Jess committed to running a marathon just seven months after giving birth, setting ambitious goals.
• 🏅 The Olympic qualifying standard shifted for Jess as other athletes set faster times, motivating her to aim higher.
• 🎉 Achieving a personal best at the Deau Marathon while balancing family responsibilities was a significant accomplishment for Jess.
• 🤱 Being a breastfeeding mom added unique challenges, and Jess took her child with her during competitions.
• 💸 Support from organizations like Sassy eased financial burdens for Jess when booking travel and accommodation.
• 🤝 The importance of a strong support system is highlighted as crucial for athletes’ success.
• 🌱 A holistic approach to athletics recognizes that life outside of sports can enhance performance and well-being.
• 💪 This mindset shift encourages athletes to pursue fulfilling lives beyond competition, promoting long-term resilience.

Q & A

What does Jess Stenson emphasize about winning in sports?

Jess emphasizes that winning is more about character and how one performs, rather than just the results. It's important to have a positive attitude and support those around you.

What personal achievement is Jess particularly proud of?

Jess is proud of running a personal best at the recent Deo Marathon, especially considering she achieved this while managing the responsibilities of being a mother of two.

How did Jess's goals change after the performance of other Australian runners?

Initially, Jess aimed for the Olympic qualifying standard of 2:26:50, but after seeing other Australian girls run in the 2:23 zone, she realized she needed to target a faster time.

What support did Sassy provide to Jess during her training?

Sassy offered financial support to cover the extra costs of travel and accommodation, which helped alleviate pressure on Jess while she prepared for her marathon.

Why is support from sponsors important for athletes, according to Jess?

Support from sponsors is crucial because it helps athletes manage the additional pressures that come with balancing family responsibilities and competitive goals.

What shift in mindset does Jess mention regarding athlete performance?

Jess mentions a shift towards recognizing that what athletes do outside of their sport contributes to their overall development and can enhance performance.

How does Jess's experience reflect the challenges faced by athlete parents?

Jess's experience illustrates the juggling act that athlete parents must perform, managing both competitive goals and family life, which can add complexity to their training and preparation.

What does Jess believe about the relationship between personal fulfillment and athletic performance?

Jess believes that having a fulfilling life outside of sport can actually improve performance, as it reduces pressure and allows athletes to focus better on their goals.

What message does Jess convey about being a good human in sports?

Jess conveys that being a good human—supporting others and maintaining a positive attitude—is as important, if not more so, than winning in the competitive arena.

How does Jess view the importance of community support in an athlete's life?

Jess views community support as invaluable, as it not only provides practical assistance but also fosters a sense of belonging and encouragement that enhances an athlete's experience.