Aberdonian athlete Naomi Lang shifts focus to road running for the Inverness half marathon.
Naomi Lang, a talented athlete from Aberdeen, is set to showcase her skills at the upcoming Inverness half marathon. Known for her prowess in mountain running, Lang is now shifting her focus to road racing, aiming for success in this prestigious event.
With a background steeped in outdoor activities, her journey reflects a blend of passion and perseverance.
From hills to half marathons
Lang’s athletic career began as a teenager with Aberdeen AAC, where she was coached by Andrew Ferguson. Her love for the outdoors, particularly the Cairngorms, has been a constant in her life.
“Growing up in Aberdeen, we went to the Cairngorms most often,” she recalls. This connection to nature has fueled her passion for running, leading her to compete at various levels.
While she initially focused on track and cross-country events during her university years at Edinburgh, the pandemic prompted a shift in her training. “During Covid, I did a lot more hill running, and after that, I started doing more racing,” Lang explains. This newfound dedication to hill racing culminated in her impressive performance at last year’s European off-road championships, where she not only finished fifth individually but also contributed to the GB & NI team’s gold medal victory.
Building confidence for the road
Reflecting on her recent successes, Lang expresses a sense of disbelief at her rapid progress. “Last year felt like a bit of a whirlwind. I had been injured through two winters and barely raced,” she shares. Despite her challenges, she managed to secure a spot on the European team, exceeding her own expectations during the competition.
As she prepares for the Inverness half marathon, Lang’s confidence is palpable. She previously competed in a half marathon in Edinburgh, finishing second, and is eager to see how her training will pay off this time. “I think the field in Inverness will be quite strong. I will focus on trying to run my own race, rather than my position, and I will see where that takes me,” she states, highlighting her strategic approach to the race.
Facing strong competition
Lang is aware of the formidable competition she will face in Inverness, including fellow athletes like Nancy Scott and Kirsty Walker from Edinburgh AC. Her previous attempt to compete in the Seville half marathon was thwarted by severe weather, but she views this as a blessing in disguise, allowing her to focus on her training without the added pressure of travel disruptions.
With her sights set on achieving a personal best, Lang is determined to make her mark in the half marathon scene. Her journey from mountain trails to road racing exemplifies her adaptability and commitment to the sport. As she steps onto the starting line, fans and fellow competitors alike will be eager to see how this mountain running star performs on the road.
