Meet the new owner of Ken Combs Running Store
How and why did you start running and how many years have you been running?
I started running back in fifth grade when we moved over to Indiana and I was able to join the cross country team. I was super excited because I always loved to run and now I got to race for real! From that point forward I grew a passion for running and continued to run cross country and track through high school. I gained such a passion for it that I continue to run and now do something I never thought I'd do: own Ken Combs Running Store! But now running has a different meaning than it did back in the day. I use it as an opportunity to de-stress, clear my head, and get creative with different ideas I have for Ken Combs Running Store. It's an opportunity for me to go out and get a break from the everyday grind and I love it. So, if we're keeping track, it's been over 30 years of running!
Favorite distance
I have two distances I really love to run - the 10K and the half marathon. Both are challenging and require hard work, but they are over quickly, and the training isn't as daunting! But I'm starting to favor the full marathon as I just qualified for The Boston Marathon for the first time!
Favorite place to run
My favorite place to run is Cherokee Park. I love seeing all the people out there running/walking/playing with their dogs/cycling/etc. It's such a great place with great energy. You can get all the hills you need, run trails if you want, and even use the flatter roads along the creek for speed work. It also offers great scenery throughout the year and it doesn't hurt that it's close to my house!
Favorite or most unique race you have run?
One of the coolest places I've run was in Prague, Czech Republic. You're able to run along the Vltava River which offers a great view of the city along with some paths that are pedestrian and bike friendly. And if you want to climb some hills and have some great views, run Vitkov Hill, a great mid city park! I love running when traveling because it gets you off the beaten path and offers you a different perspective than you'd otherwise get.
Favorite thing about running
Running is my escape. It's something I can do anywhere, and I don't need others to come with me to have a good time. Nothing beats the feeling of a great run! But I also love the community and camaraderie that running offers. We have an AWESOME running community in Louisville with people from all walks of life that get out and put in the work like everyone else. The running community is full of great people and I've been fortunate to make some great friends within the Louisville running community. Running brings people together and I love getting up early on a Saturday morning to meet up with friends to knock out a long run at 6:00 am. That's my happy place.
Do you have any running/walking advice you'd like to offer?
Stay within yourself. Sometimes it is easy to get caught up with comparing yourself to others. DON'T! Everyone is different and everyone has their own journey. You will get where you need to be with your running as long as you put in the work and have a plan.
Why do you like running River City Races events?:
First and foremost, River City Races are fun! RCR offers different distances throughout the year so there is something for everyone. Whether you are just starting out or you are a seasoned veteran, you will enjoy their races!
Anything else you'd like to share?
Running teaches you a great lesson: you get out of it what you put into it. Running isn't something you can just show up and do, it takes a lot of work and dedication. You can't cheat running, and running won't cheat you. If you put in the work, stay dedicated, and have fun with it, you will reap many rewards both big and small! But all it takes is that first step. Don't be intimidated, start small, and most importantly have fun! If you ever have questions or want to chat about running, stop in and see me (or anyone else on our team) at Ken Combs Running Store!