Bungard’s Journey from Swimming to Trail Running Glory

Emma Bungard, a former competitive swimmer, is set to realize her long-held dream of representing New Zealand in the world mountain and trail running championships. This milestone is particularly significant as she prepares to compete in the senior women’s short trail distance event in Canfranc-Pirineos, Spain, next month. Her qualification came after a commendable fifth-place finish at the Three Peaks plus one race in Dunedin earlier this year.

Reflecting on her journey, Bungard recalled her aspirations during a 2019 interview with the Otago Daily Times. “It’d be cool to represent the silver fern,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to continuous improvement. Now, at 24 years old, she describes her upcoming competition as a “dream come true,” though she admits feeling a mix of excitement and trepidation. “I’m super excited about it … but also scary, because I’ve not raced on the world stage before.”

Bungard’s athletic background laid a solid foundation for her transition from swimming to long-distance running. Initially making waves in the pool, she earned silver medals in the 100m individual medley and the 200m breaststroke at the New Zealand Division Two Championships. Her journey into running began serendipitously when she joined her school’s cross-country team, sparking a passion that would lead her away from swimming.

Determined to excel in her new sport, Bungard took running seriously in 2021, participating in local 10km races and half-marathons. She eventually ventured into ultramarathons, where her endurance was put to the ultimate test. Being part of the Leith Harriers club has further propelled her development. Notably, she achieved a personal best by completing the last 30km of the Kepler Challenge in 2024 alongside clubmate Kristy Eyles.

“Ultramarathons are the ultimate test of endurance, and I fully embrace that challenge,” Bungard explained. “I just like being able to push myself and find where my limit is.” She acknowledges the mental and physical hurdles that accompany such long races, stating, “You definitely go to some dark places when you’re running for over five hours.”

Strong support has been crucial for Bungard, particularly from her coach, Tony Dodds, a former Otago triathlete who competed at the Rio Olympics. The two first met at Moana Pool, where Dodds was coaching triathletes during her swimming days. Upon deciding to focus on running, Bungard sought his guidance. “He’s been incredible. If it wasn’t for him, I definitely wouldn’t be in the position where I am now,” she remarked. “He knows how to push me to the right point without overdoing it and understands me as an athlete.”

Bungard’s dedication is evident in her training regimen, which involves running up to 120km per week. This includes speed sessions with the Leith president Chris Sole’s running group, as well as solo hill training on weekends. Balancing her rigorous training schedule with her career as a medical scientist in histology at Awanui Labs adds to her commitment. “That’s pretty full on … but I love it — it’s an awesome field to be a part of,” she said.

Bungard is not alone in her pursuit of trail running excellence. She joins a talented group of southern athletes heading to Spain, including fellow competitor Katie Morgan from Queenstown, who will race in the short course alongside her. Other notable participants include Ryan Carr, Dwight Grieve, and Jack Harris, who will compete in the men’s short course. National champion Juliet Chamberlain, now based in Dunedin, will participate in the senior women’s long trail, while Sarah Douglas from Queenstown will compete in the senior women’s uphill mountain running event.

As Bungard prepares for this significant competition, her journey reflects not only her personal growth but also the broader spirit of resilience and determination found within the New Zealand sporting community.