Meet fisiocrem sponsored athlete Ando, an avid runner who moved to Australia back in 2004 from Brazil. Ando has faced living with Guillian Barre Syndrome, a rare disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks his nerves. Doctor’s found out in 2005 that he was born with this condition, the main symptoms include: weakness and tingling in your extremities leading to a whole body paralysation.
Ando never thought he would love running as much as he does. No other sport compares to his passion for running.
One of his biggest personal achievements was overcoming setbacks, running 50km and placing top 5 in the Ultra-Trail Australia (UTA) 2018. The same year as the UTA, Ando produced a time of 2:37 per km at the Melbourne Marathon.
Ando says, ‘‘I should never have walked again, and there I was top 5 in one of the most prestigious ultra-races in Australia.” It’s proven that everything is possible.
Coming first isn’t the goal, but being satisfied with his performance is of more importance. Ando hopes that his story and love for running can motivate more people to get out there and work hard, don’t give up and believe in the dream.
Last year Ando came third at the fisiocrem GC50, 50km race event. This year he is currently training for the fisiocrem GC30 Main Beach on the 29th of May. He is aiming to pace the marathon at 4:10 per km and high-five anyone who runs past. His coach (Kylie Weise) plans a daily program based on running data, so he will reach his full potential.
When asked about who supports and motivates him, Ando says, “Life. The challenges it puts in front of me everyday motivates me more than anything else. Also, my past, my kids, my family and fiance. They all motivate me to get out of bed at 4:20 am to do what I love.’’ He’s really fortunate to have some good quality friends (Joe, Andrew, Mick and Eddie) supporting and training with him everyday
ANDO’S TOP RECOVERY TIPS
”Get a fitness coach, listen to your body, and practice active recovery.”
”I think when you love something, and you don’t mind working very hard, you are able to achieve beautiful dreams.”
