During one of our latest adventures we discovered Ayesha Makim pounding the trails around Cape Town, running with the Atlantic Athletics Club whilst training to take on some epic global challenges.

Here she talks to us about one of her greatest passions; running.

When did you start running? I think I started running before walking. As far back as I can remember I was running everywhere. I grew up on a farm so we had plenty of space to roam free.

Have you always enjoyed running? Running has always been my happy place. Yup, I'm one of those runners that smiles, except for maybe 37km into a marathon...then it's a cross between and smile and a grimace.

What does running mean to you? For me running is something that makes me deeply happy. If I don't run, I get grumpy. It's special to me as I have met some of my best friends through it and seen some incredible places when travelling. I love the post-run feeling, you can't beat it.

What is on your running bucket list? Ok, I have a few of these. I would absolutely LOVE to do the Western States 100 miles. I am totally obsessed with it. It's not for the faint-hearted but I know it would be an incredible self-adventure. There are a few other Ultra-Trail races in the Canary Islands (Transvulcania) and Tarawera in New Zealand. I would also like to do a few other overseas marathons like New York, London, Berlin and there is one in Norway called the Midnight Marathon. There are so many to choose from!

Do you run alone or in a group? I am part of a club here in Cape Town called Atlantic Athletics Club. So I run with a few members from there pretty much every day. Sometimes I run alone but mostly with people. 

How has running changed you? I feel I have channelled an inner competitive streak that I haven't experienced since school. It's made me more driven and hard working especially when I have a big race I am training for. I know that when I set my mind to it, I will do it. I have also learnt to believe in myself more and trust in my body.

How do you convince yourself to get out of the door on days you just don’t feel like it? Haha, yes this a very natural feeling that most runners have to deal with, especially in the colder months. I usually count to three and get up. I also remember how good I feel after my run and how bad I feel if I don't! It helps to have a race that you're training for, a goal. That usually helps me get up.... that and coffee after. I always tell myself that by the time I am home from my run I have already achieved more in my day than most people. Kinda makes me feel more badass!