HEIDI Davies has targeted a return to competitive running following a five month injury lay-off.

The 19 year old from Llandrindod Wells has endured a testing time on the sidelines with a stress fracture leading to an extended spell on the sidelines.

While keen to return to action and her blossoming mountain running career the teenager hopes her spell out of the sport will stand her in good stead in the future.

“I started running pretty seriously when I was 11 years old and soon realised it was something I was destined to do,” said Davies. “Since then I think the longest I’ve gone without was a week or two. It made me feel alive out in the countryside with just your imagination.

“However I am grateful to have experienced these past five months. At first all I wanted to do was to be able to run again but during my time out I found out who I was without running.

“After my first run and pain free steps this month I could not take the smile off my face. I was running and I suddenly remembered why I loved it and it was the greatest feeling.”

Davies has competed for Wales and Great Britain at junior level with the aim now to regain her fitness and national squad vest and success at senior level.

However Davies insisted her spell on the sidelines had given her perspective.

“I have lived without being able to run so I know I can live without being able to run and still be happy,” said Davies. “It’s all a matter of perspective.

“I cannot thank the people around me enough for helping through the past few months. They know who they are and their support means the world and more.”