ANDREW Mahony’s resurrection is complete.
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The founder of Tamworth exercise physiology business Rural Fit, which started from the back of a car boot just over two years ago, has landed one of the state’s most prestigious business awards.
At a gala ceremony in Sydney on Friday night, Rural Fit was awarded the excellence in small business gong at the NSW Business Chamber state awards.
It caps off a remarkable few years for the former topline soccer player, whose battle against adversity is every bit as inspiring as any of the clients he has helped recover from serious injury or illness.
Eight years ago, Mr Mahony was struck down by a mysterious, stroke-like condition and spent six months learning to walk and talk again.
He started Rural Fit as a one-man operation, working 90-hour weeks, despite having a wife and three small children at home.
On top of winning a swag of business awards – including being named young entrepreneur of the year at the recent New England North West NSW Business Chamber awards – he has grown a highly profitable business that now employs 12 staff.
A humbled Mr Mahony thanked his staff, clients and supporters after receiving Friday night’s award.
“This is a reflection on my team and the fact they’ve taken on board the culture I started,” Mr Mahony said.
“I’ve also had great mentors and so many successful people have been willing to give up their own time to share their experiences with me.
“But it’s the clients that really inspire and get you out of bed every day.”
He said much of his success had been driven by critically analysing his business.
“You really have to embrace the notion of working on your business, rather than just in it,” Mr Mahony said.