1) What inspired you to start running?

I’ve been running since I was a small child and always loved it. One day in my mid 20s the fitness manager at my work saw me running and said “have you ever considered running a marathon”?  I had never considered it. I’d never run more than 10k at a time. With her support and confidence I joined the Running Room marathon clinic. From there I’ve gone on to run multiple marathons including Disneys Dopey and Goofy challenges plus 2 majors and many others.

2) What lead you to join/start a Run group and what are you most proud of?

The fitness manager at my workplace let me know Running Room had running clinics and joining one would be a great way to achieve my goals.  This was the start of some of the best friendships I’ve ever had.  I’m currently part of many running groups in Durham. I’ve met so many amazing people over the years who’ve inspired me in so many ways to become a better runner and better person! 

I’m a pretty humble person and don’t give myself credit for everything I’ve accomplished. I’m most proud of others achieving their goals and if my experiences good and bad can help someone else I’m a happy.

3) Anything unique about your running journey?

I would say my journey into the marathon world is unique.  I had not run more than 10k at a time until me joining a marathon clinic. It seems unique in my circles that I started running 10k races at 6.  The majority of friends who have run marathons had not started running til they were in their 40s and 50s.  It’s never too late to start running.

4) What advice would you give those beginner and intermediate level runners?

Find a running group in your area.  Make it fun!  Find the right shoes. Start out with small goals. I don’t know how many times I’ve heard someone say “I can’t run 1km let alone a marathon”.  My response is “you have likely walked many kms at some point doing regular things”.  Think about a day spent at an amusement park or even Christmas shopping at a mall.

Everyone has to start somewhere. As I always say all the stars have to align. Every run is a learning experience. Take the lessons and make changes to improve going forward.

Another way to get better is to try to run with anyone within your current abilities. I will finish a run and go back out to run a slower person in anytime I can. Everyone has had a bad run and just needs that little bit of a push to get to the end.  Be kind to yourself and others.

5) What’s your favourite route that you have run a) in Durham and b) anywhere in the world

My favourite route in Durham hands down is the waterfront trail in Ajax!  I will drive 30-40 minutes from where I currently live to run on it.  I find the lake so calming and it’s the best of many worlds. A trail that’s paved but still has forested areas, gardens and wildlife. The bonus is it’s plowed and salted in the winter.

My favourite routes are Disney Florida races, Chicago Marathon and Niagara Falls. Disney is the happiest place on earth and I absolutely love it there.  Chicago and Niagara Falls are gorgeous cities.

All of my favourite places to run have water, bridges and waterfalls in common. My happy places!