A Message From Sayla

Hey guys,

For as long as I can remember I've had people around me supporting along my journey and dream of performing at an elite level. I am extremely grateful to have access to platform like this that can help alleviate the financial pressures of this pursuit.

In August I will be leaving Australia and heading to the University of Florida to perform at a semi-elite level, this stage in my running career is one step closer to my dream of a professional career post-college. Whilst it is an exciting time it is also a very nerve-racking one, leaving everyone and everything I've known for the past 18 years to a completely unfamiliar environment. Gold Coast Run Co has been my family for nearly 5 years now, turning up to training is one of the best parts of my day and this is because of the people there including my coach Jackson Elliott, the connections I have made are so special and I'll cherish them forever. I will also miss coaching the younger ones on Monday arvo's, they remind me why I run and how I got to where I am today, that is where it all started, I have my mum to thank for that one.

It will be hard leaving but I know that I will grow through this experience and at the end of these 4 years I will look back and be so happy and grateful for the memories I've made, in which with your help you allowed me to make.

When considering going to America to compete and study, one of the limiting factors that always played in the back of our minds was our financial situation. With the scholarship I was fortunate enough to receive, it began to make this a reality and we have created a plan to support myself whilst I am overseas, this being one of them. Any amount above or below the $5000 target will help immensely and we are eternally grateful.

I stumbled across a quote recently that I thought resonated with my position.

"There is something painfully beautiful about choosing to leave the people you love in pursuit of the unknown, leaving the safe space of home in search of something different, because, in the end we cannot become what we want by remaining what we are."