How Hongkonger Trilby White overcame TB and took part in women-only race in Tehran

Veterinary manager and mother of two talks about taking part in a women-only 10km race in Iran, her first event since overcoming tuberculosis after a two-year battle

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Trilby White went to Tehran to run a marathon, but was told that women were only allowed to participate in the 10km race.

Published: 12:45pm, 22 Apr 2017Updated: 4:53pm, 4 May 2017

Hong Kong Australian Trilby White, 39, has just returned from Tehran, where she ran a first-of-its-kind all-female race. It was her first event since recently overcoming a two-year battle with tuberculosis, which has caused her permanent lung damage and saw her spend nearly a month in strict isolation.

Yet today she looks the picture of health – and not only is she back on track with her training, she’s also a busy mother of two and veterinary practice manager at East Island Animal Hospital in Shau Kei Wan, where she oversees five animal health companies and 50-odd staff.

Trilby White trains in Sai Wan Ho. Photo: Xiaomei Chen

What first got you into running?

I started in triathlon after my first daughter was born. My husband [ultrarunner and fellow vet David Gething] and I both decided it was time to get fit. I did triathlon for a few years and a couple of half Ironman races, and aimed for an Ironman, but I just couldn’t manage the training and working and being a mother. I got too exhausted.

I started to focus on running as it’s so much more versatile. I actually like cycling more, but you can’t go out cycling here in the middle of the day – you’d get killed on the roads. I love that you can run anywhere, and you don’t need much equipment. As long as you remember your running shoes you’re OK.