Running for Good: Lessons from Fiona Oakes for Young Athletes

Fiona Oakes lost a kneecap at age 17 after a severe medical complication, making even walking painful.  Doctors told her she would never run again. Yet she refused to accept that verdict. 

Fast forward to today: she holds four world records, including the fastest aggregate time for marathons on all seven continents and the North Pole.  She doesn’t do it for fame or sponsorships she runs to raise awareness and funds for animal welfare through her sanctuary, Tower Hill Stables. 

Her mission-driven focus gives her the kind of internal motivation that many young athletes can learn from.  Fiona runs not to win, but to give. That shift from ego-driven performance to purpose-driven action is the foundation of true mental strength. 

For young athletes navigating academic pressures, competition, and the search for identity, Fiona’s story is a reminder that performance means little without meaning.

Purpose Over Pressure

Fiona’s purpose is crystal clear every stride is for something bigger than herself.  This is vital for young athletes who can easily get lost chasing outcomes: scholarships, selections, or social validation. 

When your motivation is tied solely to results, you ride an emotional rollercoaster.  But when you connect your training and competition to personal growth, community, or values, you create resilient motivation. 

Try this: Ask yourself, Why do I play …. ?” and revisit your answer regularly.

Then ground your goals in something that truly matters to you. 

>> Relevant resource: Children and Youth Motivation for Sport Quiz

Reframing Adversity as Opportunity

Fiona could have easily labelled herself as “injured” or “limited.”  Instead, she redefined what was possible. That mindset shift seeing setbacks as detours, not dead ends is the essence of mental toughness. 

For young athletes, injuries, non-selection, or exam stress can feel career-defining.  But resilience grows when you train your mind to ask better questions**: 

• “What can I learn from this?”
• “How can I adapt?”
• “What strength can I develop right now?” 

This process-oriented thinking builds the mental elasticity required for long-term success. 

>>Further listening – How to Deal with Adversity

Intrinsic Motivation Beats External Validation

Fiona rarely races for podiums or media attention. Her motivation is intrinsic driven by passion, compassion, and values. 

Many young athletes today live in an environment of constant comparison social media highlights, selection bias, and public judgment.  But chasing validation can erode confidence. 

True confidence comes from commitment to your craft, not from applause.  Fiona’s example teaches athletes that the quiet satisfaction of consistent effort outlasts the temporary highs of recognition. 

Sports psychology tip:Reflect on your week and ask, “What am I proud of that no one else saw?” 

>>Related resource: Intrinsic or Extrinsic Goals: Do You Set Goals That Harm Your Performances?

Final Reflections: Running for Good, Living for Growth 

Fiona Oakes’ story in Running for Good isn’t just about endurance running, it’s about emotional endurance, purpose, and integrity.  For young athletes stepping into adult sport, her journey offers a roadmap for sustainable success.    Her life teaches that mental toughness isn’t forged in isolation it’s shaped by empathy, purpose, and daily commitment.  When you run your race with meaning, every challenge becomes a chapter in your growth story. 

>> Check out Amazon Documentaries or Read Her Inspiring Book – Running for Good: The Fiona Oakes Story