Q. Tell me a little bit about yourself. (Where you’re from, what you’re doing now etc…)
I do call myself a “runner”, but call my sister Molly a “racer”. I live in Wall, SD. It is easy to just step out my door to go for a run, long or short. There is a variety of terrain here and yes there are hills! (Roger Heacock will attest to that fact.) Other interests include trapshooting, cooking (and eating), kayaking and yoga.
Q. How long have you been running and how did you get started?
In 2007 after losing 25 pounds (that had been with me since high school) my epiphany was that I was goal motivated and that is what i needed to maintain fitness level and weight loss. I had just completed the Tour Dakota bike ride and desperately needed another goal. I was at a loss until an acquaintance suggested I get a personal trainer. Living in Wall did not make that suggestion easy to follow through on. I soon learned that Mark Patterson had gone to college for just such a thing and he lived in Wall. He made a runner out of me, changing my running form was the most important part as running now did not hurt my knees. My first “race” was in Pashastin, WA.
Q. Would you rather run with a group or alone?
I have always run alone as I never found anyone to run with me at 5:00 in the morning!. I love small groups of people around though. Finding someone that runs my pace or me keeping up with theirs is a challenge!
Q. Do you prefer roads or trails?
I love the Trail Run Series, absolutely love it. Never have to worry or think about splits. I do run on roads cause that is what is right outside my door and I try to incorporate a bit of “dirt” into my runs.
Q. What is your favorite distance or race?
The Black Hills Trail Run Series is the best. There is so much variety, short and long, and different trails each year. I have run 5 marathons but they just don’t call my name. I do enjoy the half(s) but love the trail series.
Memorable races include: Mickelson Half and Full, Eagle River (WI) Full, Fargo Half, Batan Memorial Full (with Roger Heacock, Dennis Meyer, Joyce Sauer & Kim Osberg), Bighorn 30k, Bighorn 50K, Whidbey Island Half (WA), Leading Ladies Half and Full (commemorating my 50th birthday) and a Half Ironman in Ocean Shores, WA (commemorating my racer sister’s 50th birthday).
Q. What are your goals for the future?
All of the Black Hills Trail Run Series this year, and 2018 the Bighorn 50 miler, as it is still calling my name. ( I have run the 30K and 50K and dnf for the 50 miler. )
Q. Do you have a pre-race ritual?
Smile.
Q. What do you love most about running? What do you like least?
I love being outside in every season even the cold. I have run in coveralls and ski goggles! My body gets overheated when the temperature is over 70, so I do not like warm temperatures for running.
Q. Who inspires you most?
Lorna Squire and Dan Bjerke are my inspirations.
Q. Do you have any favorite races that you have run?
All of the Trail Run Series.
Q. What advice do you have for new runners?
No matter what your weight or fitness level, get out there and just do it. I will never forget meeting those who are not “waiting” for their body or fitness level to be at some magical point, they are celebrating their effort now along with everyone else.