Meet Annabelle Walker, winner of the 20-24 age group at the 2023/24 Polar Bear Grand Prix
I started running because my step-dad said I would be good at it because I always went running with him because apparently I had to much energy in six grade lol. Gave it ago in the fall of six grade and I absolutely loved it! Everything about it and I was on the competitive side so I like beating people and felt like it was something I should keep doing. My step-dad coached me through many years of running being the best running partner anyone could every ask for. Unfortunately he passed away my freshman year of college..I still run for him because I told him I’d keep going. He got to watch me run one last time here in louisville, it was my first college race so it made it even more special he got to come. Still now even though I don’t run in college anymore, I love doing the local races and the atmosphere is awesome. The running community is just something else!
I decided to do the polar grand prix mainly for the metal series how they piece together but also the winter races I get to run with my dog so it’s even more fun.
Favorite distance right now would probably be a 10k just because when I do a 5k I feel the need to go faster but my body doesn’t want to lol.
I love running at the beach!! There is no need for music when you can hear the ocean waves crash right beside you, I just love it.(I secretly want to move there.)
Most unique place I’ve ran recently is a 5k in myrtle beach. It was a halloween run so I dress up of course.
Testing the limits of my body and knowing it’s not my body telling me to quit it’s my mind. That you are capable of more than what your mind is telling you and to not give up!
DON’T COMPARE YOURSELF TO OTHERS…I used to do this so much when I was in my early years of running. No matter how fast your going a 5k is a 5k, 10k is a 10k and so on. No matter the distance, you still did the distance and everyone should be proud of themselves for doing it!
This is actually my first year doing river city races and I really enjoyed it. I will definitely be doing more races this year and years to come. Everyone is always so friendly and even strangers will come up and tell me “good job!” and it’s just an overall good running experience.
HAPPY RUNNING EVERYONE!!