Polar Bear Grand Prix 40-44 Female Champion
How and why did you start running and how many years have you been running?
I started running in my thirties when a friend of mine asked if I wanted to do the Kentucky Derby Triple Crown. THat year I was not able to do the last leg because I messed up my knee and then had to have my gallbladder removed. It was one thing after another, so once I healed from surgery and completed physical therapy for my knee. ,I was determined to get back into running. I initially hated running but have grown to really enjoy the time I have to myself while running.
Why did you decide to do the Polar Bear Grand Prix?
I love the Polar Bear Grand Prix because it keeps me motivated in the cold weather months. I also like the challenge of running in the cold and psyching myself up to just do it. Last year I set a goal to run at least one race per month and started with the polar bear grand prix. THe Run the 502 has also given me something to look forward to in regards to races each month.
Favorite distance?
The furthest I've run is a half marathon and for me that's pushing it, I've run the Derby Mini four times and it's so much fun. I'm good for about six or seven miles to run on my own, but as far as events go, I like the 5k's.
Favorite place to run?
My favorite place to run is anywhere outside, I loathe the treadmill! I enjoy running through the neighborhood and really enjoy when I'm able to get over to Broad Run or Bernheim forest
Favorite or most unique race you have run?
My favorite race I've run is the Crescent City Classic in New Orleans. It is a 10k and a lot of fun. It starts at the Superdome and goes all through town, ending at the City Park where they celebrate with a party that has free red beans and rice and Michelob Ultra, along with bands. Along the race route residents and businesses stand out and play music, have funny signs, and hand out all kinds of goodies from jello-shots and bacon to beer and orange slices. My first time running it, I did not indulge in any of the goodies because I was trying to meet a personal time, the next time I ran it I slowed down to enjoy the scenery, the people and the goodies. My family did it with me this past year and I really enjoyed that.
Favorite thing about running?
I enjoy the time I have to myself and how I feel after. No matter how far I go, I always have a sense of accomplishment once I'm finished.Running gives me an opportunity to unwind and reflect on my day or myself and what's going on in my left at the moment. I've learned along the way how to fuel my body, how to breathe better, how to exercise to strengthen my core and quads and how to build stamina and endurance. Seeing results in the hard work I've put in makes me stick with running and continue to enjoy it. It's definitely been a process for me. LIke I said when I started running in my thirties, I initially hated it!
Do you have any running/walking advice you'd like to offer?
Stick with it! Don't just rely on running as your only form of exercise; weight training and other forms of cardio will help you as a runner. I am a Jazzercise instructor as well and I found when I started doing that, it made all the difference in my running. I was able to run for thirty minutes straight without getting winded and other small issues I had with my body were resolving, because I was working out my whole body. There is definitely a balance that you have to find, just like with anything. Rest when you need to and listen to your body. I always tell myself and my jazzercise students, you're in competition with no one but yourself and your goal is to be 1% better each day.
Why do you like running River City Races events?
I love the variety of races and everyone is so nice. The running community here is awesome. I've made a lot of friends and I always see a lot of familiar faces at each race, even if we don't know each other's names we always say hello or take a minute to chat. I love that everyone is always so supportive and encouraging no matter your experience level. I've always felt welcomed and I encourage anyone who is thinking about trying a race but is nervous, to go for it! You won't regret it!
Anything else you'd like to share?
Running has been a lifesaver for me in the last few years especially. It keeps my body and mind healthy, and for that I'll always be grateful.