How old are you?
29
Where do you live?
Zanesville, OH, USA
What is your history with sports and athletics?
I did not grow up athletic. I started running as an adult to help manage stress. Then I fell in love with running and started pushing myself for more mileage. Now I have competed in run events, triathlon events, and a 24 hour ultra running event.
What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?
I have met some amazing people who have become close friends. My stress level is healthier and better managed. I have learned my needs when my mental health is not balanced. Picking a proudest moment is hard! Setting new personal bests are always proud moments. Finishing and actually placing in my age group at my first ever triathlon was probably a most memorable and proudest moment.
Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?
I have struggled with proper training and nutrition. The biggest struggle would probably be breaking my toe just two months out from my first ever triathlon.
Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?
I went through a divorce and maintained sanity due to running and training. Being able to set and achieve fitness goals helped me to improve my mental health and self esteem during my divorce. Now fitness helps me to maintain a healthy balance in my personal and professional lives. I practice as a music therapist and being able to practice what I preach is a key factor to being successful.
What is your “why?”
To prove I can. Every further mile ran and biked, every lake conquered in a swim help to remind me that I am able and enough.
What is your favorite gear or training equipment?
Training and competition partners. There is no better equipment or gear than a good friend.
Do you have a favorite race or event?
Sam’s Fans 5K run that supports music and art therapy programs.
What’s next?
Long term goal is to run my first marathon
Short term goal is to continue building mileage and strength.
Any fun facts about yourself?
I am a music therapist and currently studying clinical mental health and counseling.
I have two huskies and they join me as often as possible when it comes to running virtual or live events and training time.
Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?
Take it slow and be patient. Speed and mileage comes with time!
Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?
I enjoy encouraging the people I run with to achieve new personal best times and mileage distances as well. Being able to share in accomplishment makes it all worth while.