TRACEY Atkinson is a ball of energy, her enthusiasm is infectious, and it makes you want to lace up your trainers and find the same joy she discovers in sport.
Tracey began running during a career break after having her third daughter. While completing her degree, she started experiencing blackouts. After seeking medical advice, she was diagnosed with partial seizures and a brain tumour. At the time, the best option was to manage the symptoms with medication. She believed she could keep it hidden – until she had a seizure at work.
Her condition led to memory loss, missed moments with her children, and a deep sense of lost freedom as she required constant support. Determined not to let this define her, Belfast mum Tracey underwent the first surgery of its kind in Northern Ireland. In preparation for the operation, she began walking on a treadmill to improve her cardiovascular health.
After the successful surgery, she was ready to reclaim her life.
“After the surgery, my head was half shaved, and I just remember thinking, ‘Right, I’ve got my life back now.’ I used to need someone with me all the time, in case I had a seizure… so running became independence,” she relates.
It began with a simple run to the stop sign at the bottom of her street—then a bit further, and a bit further still. A passion was born, and it hasn’t stopped growing since.
Tracey progressed from Couch to 5K, to parkruns, and now to half marathons and full marathons. But she’s not just running, she’s excelling! She’s now ranking at the top of her age category.
“I thought, how far can I push myself? If I’m not really trying… what can I do if I actually do try?,” Tracey asked herself.
For her first marathon, she set an ambitious goal – to run it in under three hours. With the support of a coach who believed in her vision – even when it seemed bold – she trained hard. Like many runners, she battled a small injury, but she pushed through. She completed the marathon distance and, with her coach retiring, Tracey took a break from competition to help her husband build his business. She stayed active, but racing took a back seat.
Eventually, though, the itch returned.
“I just haven’t finished what I started. I feel like I still have more to accomplish. There’s just something about running that feels like part of why I’m still here… I’m on a mission,” she insists
Running has given her so much freedom. Tracey saw people raising money for charity through running. She has been a part of Reach Charity, which had supported her daughter, who was born with a limb difference. After seeing India, her daughter, speak at a Reach event in England, she had an idea – how could she combine her love for running with her desire to give back?
Though Reach has a Northern Ireland branch, it only has 22 members – despite at least one baby born with an upper limb difference each year. Tracey saw an opportunity to raise awareness in a big way.
And so, the idea took shape: 12 races, in 12 months, in 12 countries. Her home race will be the Antrim Coast Half Marathon, where she and daughter, India, along with friends and family, will run to raise funds and awareness for Reach. The race organisers have generously donated places for charity runners and have been incredibly supportive.
But Tracey didn’t stop there.
With the same energy and determination that got her through brain surgery and into competitive running, she created RAVE RUN, an evening running group designed as a safe, inclusive space for women. It’s especially for those just getting back into running or looking for a social, weekly jog. True to form, Tracey goes all out, bringing speakers, glow sticks, and infectious good vibes.
Tracey is one of those rare people who lifts others as she climbs. Her story is powerful, and her awareness raising for Reach is inspiring. If you want to follow her journey and watch her continue to land on podiums and push barriers, check out her Instagram.
As told to the Female Sports Forum
Tracey (right) at Belgian half marathon
Crossing finish line in Madrid
Tracey’s challenge
