Join us in running for recovery.
Our Kaupapa. To increase health, wellbeing and connection. Supporting recovery from addiction and mental distress through the vehicle of running.
The outcomes we work to achieve
Health & Wellbeing
Supporting individuals in recovery to access exercise in a safe and inclusive environment.
Participation & Inclusion
To support participation in local and national groups and running events, creating opportunities to engage with communities and build recovery capital.
Connecting Community
To acknowledge and address, through the vehicle of running and walking, the barriers that are present for those with addiction and to support new connections and understanding in their local communities.
Pay It Forward
Each Speed Freaks member is encouraged to pay forward the support they have received through the programme. Mentoring others and sharing their wisdom of lived experience through peer support.
Connection and Community
Speed Freaks Magic
Our Story
In 2017 a group of residents from the Odyssey House men’s programme wanted to run.
Supported by Anna Christophorou and Stephanie Schnoor, the group ran twice a week and named themselves ‘The Speed Freaks.’
In 2020 we established Speed Freaks Charitable Trust to share the magic of the Speed Freaks and the positive impacts of ‘running for recovery’
Supported by our volunteers, Speed Freaks runners and walkers have participated in multiple community events, distances from 5 km to ultra marathons. We have developed friendships and made new connections in inclusive and safe environments, growing recovery capital and supporting sustained change.
‘’I feel proud and positive, I am part of something”
“its changed my life”
People supported by the Speed Freaks
Volunteer coaches recruited
People supported by the Speed Freaks
Volunteer coaches recruited
Years the Speed Freaks have been ‘running’
Working Together
Our Programme is at no cost to providers, and is available to communities and organisations in Ōtautahi and Tāmaki Makaurau.
We work with you to incorporate the Speed Freaks programme aligning with treatment goals and supporting reintegration. Volunteer coaches are matched with your service and develop long term relationships, supporting individual health and wellbeing.
We will work with you to organise running gear, race entries, and overcome barriers to access should we meet them. We liaise with local suppliers and the running community to develop sustainable long-term relationships that support us.
Entering local and national events are a great achievement and a time to celebrate the commitment and courage in taking on new challenges.
Larger events provide a platform to develop greater understanding of addiction and mental distress. The Speed Freaks challenge thinking and raise awareness.