3rd place 55-59 Age Group 2023 Polar Bear Grand Prix
How and why did you start running and how many years have you been running?
I started running with consistency about 33 years ago at the age of 25. I had been "forced" to run as an age-group swimmer as a teenager and hated it, mostly because it was in the middle of the afternoon on hot asphalt when I wanted to be in the pool. Since starting as an adult there have been very few times when I have not run consistently. My start was on a treadmill, but now I run outside unless the weather is extreme.
Why did you decide to do the Polar Bear Grand Prix?
We moved back to Louisville last April after 20 years away. I remembered it was a great place to find local races, so I googled. I wanted some races close by that would be fun and easy to train for. I signed up for most of the races of the Run the 502 series and thought the Polar Bear Grand Prix sounded like a fun winter time challenge. It didn't hurt that it was about a mile from my home.
Favorite distance?
My favorite distance for a daily run is 5 miles -- enough to be a good challenge, but not too much of a time commitment. My favorite race distance right now is the half-marathon because it's a demand but still doable. I do love a good fast 5k though!
Favorite place to run?
Without a doubt my favorite place to run is Cherokee Park. I'm lucky to live in the neighborhood and never tire of running through the beauty that we've been blessed with here. It's easy to add on miles with Seneca Park and Lexington & Bardstown Roads nearby. Plus, running those hills all the time kind of makes me fearless.
Favorite or most unique race you have run?
It's hard to say what my favorite race is! I loved running the Chicago Marathon for its continuous crowd support through the entire (flat!) course, but nothing beats the spirit of the Kentucky Derby Festival MiniMarathon and the Urban Bourbon Half Marathon.
Favorite thing about running?
The best thing about running is the sense of accomplishment and empowerment I get every single time I lace up my shoes. It's absolutely my therapy.
Do you have any running/walking advice you'd like to offer?
Anyone who wants to run/walk can. My advice is just start! Do it for a few minutes and increase that when you can. Keep going!
Why do you like running River City Races events?
I love the River City Races because they are fun, local, and open to everyone. It's always great to see the familiar faces young and old. I also love seeing all the great dogs.
Anything else you'd like to share?
I'm so happy and grateful to be running 33 years later, especially after a diagnosis of stage 4 metastatic melanoma in 2019. I run with 2/3 of my right lung now, but I run!