What is your history with sports and athletics?
I played tennis throughout high school. I always enjoyed hiking and going to the gym, but I got into trail running 10 years ago. My dog who was 4 at the time had lots of energy so I took him out for a walk one time, and we ended up running. That was the start of my running journey.
I continued to run 5K’s and 10K’s until I jumped to the half marathon about a year and a half into running. and then the next year I made the jump to ultra running. I found the love of the trails to be much more rewarding and peaceful.
What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?
I find that ultra running has taught me to slow down and pace myself. I am always go go go, so I need the endurance to continue for long periods of time. I enjoy the mental break it gives me in my busy life as well.
Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?
With running there is always a chance of injury or set backs. I do suffer from IT band issues and PF issues from time to time. I reset, and start to do more stretching and strength but I am not a fast runner either so I’m always against the clock when it comes to making sure I make cut offs.
I am fortunate that my family is supportive of my running and knows that it is a part of me. Training for long distance is hard because it is very time consuming but it is a passion of mine so I do what I can to make sure I train for the races I am registered for.
Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?
I’ve been lucky enough to not have anything major, but I know that when I’ve been injured, I have been sad and depressed without running, so I know that it is my go to to make myself feel better.
What is your “why?”
To prove to myself I am strong… that I can do hard things… that if I give it my best, I can see results…. may not happen every time as every run is different, but to challenge myself to get it done and say I did.
What is your favorite gear or training equipment?
I love all my inkburn clothes. They have lots of personality like me, so I love wearing their clothes when I am out running and at a race. They are bright, vibrant and unique and remind me that every race is different, every person is different and its okay to be you.
Do you have a favorite race or event?
Diablo Trails Challenge by Brazen Racing will always have a huge place in my heart. It was my first ever 5K, it was my first trail race and it showed me how great the trail running community can be. They are supportive, cheer every runner on regardless of pace and have the best food!!
What’s next?
I have attempted the 100K distance 3 times and have failed at mile 50 almost every time….. I would like to still try and achieve it, but for now I am working on running 100 half marathons where right now I sit at number 47. But if a 100K falls in line, I will be tempted to try again.
Any fun facts about yourself?
I have run all 160 miles of Mount Diablo. I am only one of a handful of others who have completed it. My friend Andrea suggested we do it. It took 88 hours over 6 months, we got 65K in elevation gain and it took us 260+ miles covering all 160. We both are now volunteers for Mount Diablo and help with the back county patrol while we are out on the trails.
Do you have advice for someone interested in getting started?
Go for it. And don’t believe we don’t walk…. walking/hiking is a huge part of running.