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It's Not A Sprint: Lessons of Faith and Endurance on the Marathon of Life
'A must-read for anyone seeking motivation to tackle challenges against the odds.' - Tim Oberg, Founder of Parkrun Australia
'It's impossible to read her memoir and not feel inspired.' - Sheri Colberg, PhD World-leading expert in diabetes and exercise, and author of 'The Athlete's Guide to Diabetes' (and twelve other books)
When life feels like a marathon, how do you find the strength to keep running the race?
'It's Not a Sprint' is the story of couch-potato-turned-ultrarunner, Stephanie Walters. From the highs of crossing the finish line of a gruelling 150-kilometre race in the Simpson Desert to the valleys of life's deepest struggles, Stephanie candidly shares the challenges that have tested her faith: managing type 1 diabetes, experiencing a painful divorce, suffering multiple miscarriages, recovering from injuries, and battling anxiety, depression, and alcohol addiction.
Weaving her passion for running into her journey of faith, Stephanie presents a powerful metaphor for the Christian life. Just as the marathon demands endurance, so too does the race that God has set before us. In the face of trials, Stephanie discovers that true victory is measured not by podium finishes, but by fixing our eyes on Jesus and trusting His perfect plan.
'It's Not a Sprint' offers hope and encouragement to anyone feeling weary on the race of life. It will inspire you to run with perseverance, reminding you that no obstacle is insurmountable with God on your side.
'It's impossible to read her memoir and not feel inspired.' - Sheri Colberg, PhD World-leading expert in diabetes and exercise, and author of 'The Athlete's Guide to Diabetes' (and twelve other books)
When life feels like a marathon, how do you find the strength to keep running the race?
'It's Not a Sprint' is the story of couch-potato-turned-ultrarunner, Stephanie Walters. From the highs of crossing the finish line of a gruelling 150-kilometre race in the Simpson Desert to the valleys of life's deepest struggles, Stephanie candidly shares the challenges that have tested her faith: managing type 1 diabetes, experiencing a painful divorce, suffering multiple miscarriages, recovering from injuries, and battling anxiety, depression, and alcohol addiction.
Weaving her passion for running into her journey of faith, Stephanie presents a powerful metaphor for the Christian life. Just as the marathon demands endurance, so too does the race that God has set before us. In the face of trials, Stephanie discovers that true victory is measured not by podium finishes, but by fixing our eyes on Jesus and trusting His perfect plan.
'It's Not a Sprint' offers hope and encouragement to anyone feeling weary on the race of life. It will inspire you to run with perseverance, reminding you that no obstacle is insurmountable with God on your side.
250 pages, Paperback
Published November 25, 2024
1 person is currently reading
9 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Walters
1 book10 followersStephanie's award-winning debut memoir, 'It's Not a Sprint: Lessons of Faith and Endurance on the Marathon of Life', was released in November 2024.
Stephanie holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Philosophy from Charles Sturt University and a Postgraduate Certificate in Editing and Electronic Publishing from Macquarie University.
As a professional copyeditor, Stephanie delights in helping other authors refine their words and bring their stories to life.
Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of five, Stephanie has never let it stop her from chasing her dreams. A passionate runner, she has braved seven marathons and four ultramarathons — with no plans to slow down.
Stephanie lives in Brisbane, Australia, with her husband, Geoff, and their three daughters, Mariella, Hannah, and Arna.
Stephanie holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Philosophy from Charles Sturt University and a Postgraduate Certificate in Editing and Electronic Publishing from Macquarie University.
As a professional copyeditor, Stephanie delights in helping other authors refine their words and bring their stories to life.
Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of five, Stephanie has never let it stop her from chasing her dreams. A passionate runner, she has braved seven marathons and four ultramarathons — with no plans to slow down.
Stephanie lives in Brisbane, Australia, with her husband, Geoff, and their three daughters, Mariella, Hannah, and Arna.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
January 29, 2025
It’s Not a Sprint by Stephanie Walters was a powerful and moving book. In it, she shares her vulnerability through her story of coming to Jesus, how she manages her type 1 diabetes, and how she accomplishes her intense running goals.
What drew me to her book was the fact that I love Jesus and am a run coach. There are not many running books or memoirs out there that center on Christ. This book is a glimpse into her life and how God worked through her and in her during some of the most challenging times and also some of the happiest moments.
As I read this book, I felt like I was there with her in person, getting to know her as a friend as she pointed me to Jesus through her stories. I didn’t want to put the book down because I wanted to continue the “conversation with her” and learn the rest of what happened.
This is a book every Christian and runner should read. In fact, I enjoyed her book so much that I bought each of my athletes a copy. You don’t have to be a runner to love this memoir, but I dare you to read it and not have the itch to start running.
So, grab a cup of coffee, and enjoy getting to know Stephanie while she draws you closer to Jesus through her running and overcoming hardships.
What drew me to her book was the fact that I love Jesus and am a run coach. There are not many running books or memoirs out there that center on Christ. This book is a glimpse into her life and how God worked through her and in her during some of the most challenging times and also some of the happiest moments.
As I read this book, I felt like I was there with her in person, getting to know her as a friend as she pointed me to Jesus through her stories. I didn’t want to put the book down because I wanted to continue the “conversation with her” and learn the rest of what happened.
This is a book every Christian and runner should read. In fact, I enjoyed her book so much that I bought each of my athletes a copy. You don’t have to be a runner to love this memoir, but I dare you to read it and not have the itch to start running.
So, grab a cup of coffee, and enjoy getting to know Stephanie while she draws you closer to Jesus through her running and overcoming hardships.
October 4, 2025
My wonderful run coach Elizabeth gifted this book to me & it is exactly what I needed to kick off training for my second half marathon & (potentially) my first ever marathon! While this is a great read for runners, it is also great for anyone looking for inspiration to deepen their faith. If you want to find a role model who pushes past every obstacle life could possibly throw at her with deep resilience, strength, grace, & hope in the Lord & his plan, look no further! I also highly admire Stephanie’s sense of adventure, as she has really seized every possible opportunity to explore the world. She proves countless times that you don’t need a lot of money to travel, just a great adventure partner or good company! This book will make you laugh, cry & by the end of it, feel ready to take on the world!
March 13, 2025
I highly recommend this book!!
This is the first time I have ever been moved enough by a book to write a review. I was nervous about picking up, “It’s Not A Sprint” because I had read several reviews that it had been encouraging people to sign up for races/marathons, and I most certainly didn’t want to run - HA!
“It’s Not A Sprint” is not just an incredibly encouraging and motivational story about a young woman overcoming her type 1 Diabetes, but it is a challenge for readers to overcome their own limiting beliefs and excuses and to push themselves to surpass their limits and strive for greater. The author so helpfully points out that in the race of life, other people are not our competition, our biggest opponent is our own mind.
Stephanie Walters not only engaged me with her story, but her writing was brilliant and her voice throughout her writing was so engaging, vulnerable, and fun. It felt like a friend was sharing their story with me. Stephanie wrote about incredibly vulnerable topics in a way that was moving, relatable and honest. It is clear through the writing that the author was able to reflect on her life and her various choices with an almost outsider perspective, in that, she can see her own shortcomings and speak of them in a way that doesn’t try to explain away her choices, but also doesn’t shame herself for simply being human and flawed. A great reminder for all readers that we are not defined by our past or shortcomings, but we can acknowledge our poor choices or struggles and strive for better. Furthermore, as a reader and a Christian, I was very encouraged by Stephanie’s faith journey and the lessons God has taught her through her successes and her struggles.
Some memoirs I have read have been a bit awkward in their composition: feeling like they are jumping around with stories that don’t add or aid the overall narrative. However, Stephanie very cleverly used really great quotes, short anecdotes, etc. to transition between timelines in a way that felt natural and helpful. Additionally, her descriptions and imagery were vivid but not distracting and I appreciated the balance.
I don’t know how to finish a review… La La La… you should read this book…. La La La… please forgive any grammar mistakes… x toodles x
This is the first time I have ever been moved enough by a book to write a review. I was nervous about picking up, “It’s Not A Sprint” because I had read several reviews that it had been encouraging people to sign up for races/marathons, and I most certainly didn’t want to run - HA!
“It’s Not A Sprint” is not just an incredibly encouraging and motivational story about a young woman overcoming her type 1 Diabetes, but it is a challenge for readers to overcome their own limiting beliefs and excuses and to push themselves to surpass their limits and strive for greater. The author so helpfully points out that in the race of life, other people are not our competition, our biggest opponent is our own mind.
Stephanie Walters not only engaged me with her story, but her writing was brilliant and her voice throughout her writing was so engaging, vulnerable, and fun. It felt like a friend was sharing their story with me. Stephanie wrote about incredibly vulnerable topics in a way that was moving, relatable and honest. It is clear through the writing that the author was able to reflect on her life and her various choices with an almost outsider perspective, in that, she can see her own shortcomings and speak of them in a way that doesn’t try to explain away her choices, but also doesn’t shame herself for simply being human and flawed. A great reminder for all readers that we are not defined by our past or shortcomings, but we can acknowledge our poor choices or struggles and strive for better. Furthermore, as a reader and a Christian, I was very encouraged by Stephanie’s faith journey and the lessons God has taught her through her successes and her struggles.
Some memoirs I have read have been a bit awkward in their composition: feeling like they are jumping around with stories that don’t add or aid the overall narrative. However, Stephanie very cleverly used really great quotes, short anecdotes, etc. to transition between timelines in a way that felt natural and helpful. Additionally, her descriptions and imagery were vivid but not distracting and I appreciated the balance.
I don’t know how to finish a review… La La La… you should read this book…. La La La… please forgive any grammar mistakes… x toodles x
December 21, 2024
Stephanie Walters’ debut memoir, It’s Not a Sprint, is a heartfelt and powerful exploration of resilience, faith, and the endurance it takes to navigate life’s challenges. With unflinching honesty, Stephanie shares her journey through some of the toughest moments of her life, including managing type 1 diabetes, overcoming personal loss, and battling anxiety and addiction.
What makes this book stand out is how Stephanie masterfully intertwines her love for running with her spiritual journey, using the metaphor of a marathon to depict life’s trials and triumphs. From the exhilarating high of completing a grueling 150-kilometre desert race to the heartbreaking lows of personal struggles, she paints a vivid picture of what it means to persevere, lean on faith, and ultimately find hope.
The writing is raw and vulnerable, yet filled with moments of inspiration and encouragement. Stephanie’s ability to reflect on life’s obstacles with honesty and grace makes this memoir relatable, regardless of whether the reader is a runner or shares her specific experiences.
It’s Not a Sprint is more than a memoir. It’s a reminder to keep moving forward, even when the race feels impossible. A must-read for anyone looking for a story of hope, resilience, and unwavering faith, this book will leave you feeling both challenged and inspired long after you’ve turned the last page.
Rating: ★★★★★
What makes this book stand out is how Stephanie masterfully intertwines her love for running with her spiritual journey, using the metaphor of a marathon to depict life’s trials and triumphs. From the exhilarating high of completing a grueling 150-kilometre desert race to the heartbreaking lows of personal struggles, she paints a vivid picture of what it means to persevere, lean on faith, and ultimately find hope.
The writing is raw and vulnerable, yet filled with moments of inspiration and encouragement. Stephanie’s ability to reflect on life’s obstacles with honesty and grace makes this memoir relatable, regardless of whether the reader is a runner or shares her specific experiences.
It’s Not a Sprint is more than a memoir. It’s a reminder to keep moving forward, even when the race feels impossible. A must-read for anyone looking for a story of hope, resilience, and unwavering faith, this book will leave you feeling both challenged and inspired long after you’ve turned the last page.
Rating: ★★★★★
March 30, 2025
I typically read fiction, so I deviated from my norm to read "It's Not a Sprint," and I am beyond grateful I did! This nonfiction read is raw, real, and humbling!
The author weaves through multiple timelines in an effortless manner that leaves the reader eager to discover what happens next. This page-turner will have you exploring the dynamics of a journey stricken with heartache, colliding with well-described, albeit gut-wrenching, difficulties that leave you questioning the real reason for life, love, and joy. But this is not a story of defeat...this is a story of victory!
This author is gifted with her words and the art of storytelling. Her views, so elaborately shared, on Christianity, faith, and God are encouraging and uplifting. Her voice is refreshing, displayed best in her sincerity and guile. I finished the final pages of this book reflecting on the many moments I was drawn to tears, celebrating her success, and inspired by her fighting spirit. I praise God for her vulnerability in sharing her story, and I encourage all readers (fiction and non), to pick up this book!
The author weaves through multiple timelines in an effortless manner that leaves the reader eager to discover what happens next. This page-turner will have you exploring the dynamics of a journey stricken with heartache, colliding with well-described, albeit gut-wrenching, difficulties that leave you questioning the real reason for life, love, and joy. But this is not a story of defeat...this is a story of victory!
This author is gifted with her words and the art of storytelling. Her views, so elaborately shared, on Christianity, faith, and God are encouraging and uplifting. Her voice is refreshing, displayed best in her sincerity and guile. I finished the final pages of this book reflecting on the many moments I was drawn to tears, celebrating her success, and inspired by her fighting spirit. I praise God for her vulnerability in sharing her story, and I encourage all readers (fiction and non), to pick up this book!
August 5, 2025
From the very first page to the last, It’s Not a Sprint, had me completely captivated. It felt as though Stephanie was speaking directly to me—her voice authentic, engaging, and deeply personal.
Her resilience and unwavering commitment are truly inspiring. I was especially moved by how she balances the demands of marathon running while managing type 1 diabetes—a remarkable feat in itself. Stephanie’s openness in sharing her journey through heartbreak, joy, and health challenges is both raw and courageous.
The section on her trip to the USA had me on edge—particularly the moment she lost her bank card. I found myself holding my breath, yet God’s presence and provision kept shining through every twist and turn.
Stephanie writes about her faith with conviction and grace. Her love for running radiates from the pages, and I was amazed at her determination to keep going—even through pregnancy!
This book is warm, funny, poignant, and full of adventures. If you’re looking for an encouraging and inspirational read, I highly recommend It’s Not a Sprint. By the end, you’ll feel like you truly know Steph.
Her resilience and unwavering commitment are truly inspiring. I was especially moved by how she balances the demands of marathon running while managing type 1 diabetes—a remarkable feat in itself. Stephanie’s openness in sharing her journey through heartbreak, joy, and health challenges is both raw and courageous.
The section on her trip to the USA had me on edge—particularly the moment she lost her bank card. I found myself holding my breath, yet God’s presence and provision kept shining through every twist and turn.
Stephanie writes about her faith with conviction and grace. Her love for running radiates from the pages, and I was amazed at her determination to keep going—even through pregnancy!
This book is warm, funny, poignant, and full of adventures. If you’re looking for an encouraging and inspirational read, I highly recommend It’s Not a Sprint. By the end, you’ll feel like you truly know Steph.
January 28, 2025
Just finished this inspirational memoir today! So beautiful.
It's essentially about a marathon runner with type 1 diabetes, and yet it's about so much more than that. There are so many inspiring and fascinating stories within these pages. I began dog earing and highlighting things I wanted to remember. It was so touching and uplifting.
I cried quite a lot towards the end, and even though I was on a train, I had no intentions of putting the book down! I just stuffed on some sunnies and kept reading. Then nearly missed my train stop. 🤣
I'm actually a little sad I've finished. I wanted to keep reading!
Even if you're a couch potato like me, you'll love Stephanie's relatable story. I learned so much about type 1 diabetes, and marathons, and life in general. Plus, the writing style is very easy and gripping. I certainly got caught up and enjoyed this book.
Oh, and make sure you sign up for the bonus chapter at the end. It's worth it!
It's essentially about a marathon runner with type 1 diabetes, and yet it's about so much more than that. There are so many inspiring and fascinating stories within these pages. I began dog earing and highlighting things I wanted to remember. It was so touching and uplifting.
I cried quite a lot towards the end, and even though I was on a train, I had no intentions of putting the book down! I just stuffed on some sunnies and kept reading. Then nearly missed my train stop. 🤣
I'm actually a little sad I've finished. I wanted to keep reading!
Even if you're a couch potato like me, you'll love Stephanie's relatable story. I learned so much about type 1 diabetes, and marathons, and life in general. Plus, the writing style is very easy and gripping. I certainly got caught up and enjoyed this book.
Oh, and make sure you sign up for the bonus chapter at the end. It's worth it!
March 14, 2025
A beautifully written and honest memoir about so much more than running.
The author's voice is strong and emotinally moving. I am not a runner, nor do I have type 1 diabetes, but there is more to the story than that. Stephanie Walters takes the reader on a journey through significant moments in her life when she had to make the decision to give up or keep going. She makes herself vulnerable, going deep into her personal life and other struggles, to encourage her readers to take heart and trust God in the midst of trials. She writes her story in a way that draws you in and makes you care.
It's a very powerful book and has a special place on my shelf.
The author's voice is strong and emotinally moving. I am not a runner, nor do I have type 1 diabetes, but there is more to the story than that. Stephanie Walters takes the reader on a journey through significant moments in her life when she had to make the decision to give up or keep going. She makes herself vulnerable, going deep into her personal life and other struggles, to encourage her readers to take heart and trust God in the midst of trials. She writes her story in a way that draws you in and makes you care.
It's a very powerful book and has a special place on my shelf.
June 18, 2025
This book truly feels like an all-in-one guide for life. As you turn each page, you’ll find valuable insights—not just about training for a marathon, but also about navigating marriage, building a strong family, and most importantly, learning to rely on God through every season of life.
What deeply moved me was Steph’s courage in sharing her journey through miscarriage. Her vulnerability offers comfort, healing, and hope to countless mothers who have walked a similar path.
Overall, this book is more than just a read—it’s a source of encouragement and inspiration. It’s a powerful reminder to run life’s marathon with faith, resilience, and joy.
What deeply moved me was Steph’s courage in sharing her journey through miscarriage. Her vulnerability offers comfort, healing, and hope to countless mothers who have walked a similar path.
Overall, this book is more than just a read—it’s a source of encouragement and inspiration. It’s a powerful reminder to run life’s marathon with faith, resilience, and joy.
June 18, 2025
This book is a life changer! Like the style of Scott Jurek and the other wild ultra runners before her, Steph writes with a passion that is both infectious and hard to put down. My wife and I experienced a miscarriage last year and through Steph’s chapter on it and sharing a place of such deep hurt and vulnerability we were able to grieve and have peace.
I would recommend this book to anyone, whether you love running, are a person of faith or just someone looking for a good read, you won’t regret how quickly these pages fly by as Steph takes you on her marathon.
I would recommend this book to anyone, whether you love running, are a person of faith or just someone looking for a good read, you won’t regret how quickly these pages fly by as Steph takes you on her marathon.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2025
An engaging read about a ultramarathon runner who has type 1 diabetes.
June 22, 2025
Stephanie takes us on a gripping journey through her trials and triumphs. She writes so beautifully, I felt like I’d made a new friend — like I truly knew her. Highly recommend.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews