Q: Tell me a little bit about yourself. (Where you’re from, what you’re doing now…etc.)
A: I grew up on our family farm in Nisland,SD. I attended college at BHSU and graduated with a degree in political science. I currently work as a client services coordinator for an accounting firm.
Q: How long have you been running and how did you get started?
A: I’ve been running for about 15 years. I never liked running, but in 2005, shortly after I got married, my weight had steadily climbed and peaked at 200lbs,!and I needed to do something so I decided to train for my first half marathon and I was hooked.
Q: Would you rather run with a group or alone?
A: Both! It’s great to have a group you run with that you can form relationships with and running in a group can also be a great challenge. But running alone can be so therapeutic and good for the soul…climbing to the top of a hill on a trail when the sun crests the horizon is the most amazing feeling!
Q: Do you prefer roads or trails?
A: Both, but I love trails. I’ve only been doing trails for about 2 years but it’s a fantastic way to change up your training, and in the words of the great Tom Horan will make you a better runner!
Q: What is your favorite distance or race?
A: Half marathon
Q: How do you stay motivated when you don’t want to run?
A: Knowing I never regret a run…I always feel better and happier, no matter if I run 3 miles or 10 miles. Also having a great running buddy to drag you out the door helps!
Q: What do you find to be the most rewarding thing about running?
A: The sweet spot run! You all know what I’m talking about! Maybe you’ve had a couple runs where you struggled but you head out anyway, and as soon as you head down the path, gravel or trail, you feel your heart lighten and your feet pick up speed and your off!
Q: What is your favorite running memory?
A: The first time I really kicked it and PR’d a race it was in Arizona, and I remember being so thrilled that I started tearing up as I headed into the last ¼ of a mile…and I am not much of a crier, but I cried like a baby as I crossed the finish line.
Q: If I didn’t run I’d……….
A: Go crazy lol…I don’t know, maybe have to become a road biker, or maybe join fight club.
Q: Tell us a little trivia about your running?
A: Anyone know what running team I belong to???? Team Beef
Q: Do you have a pre-race ritual?
A: I always eat lean beef the night before, and oatmeal for breakfast, on race day. I also always set out all of my gear and pin my bib on, because I forgot it once and almost didn’t make it to the start line.
Q: What are your running goals for the future?
A: I’d like to try another full marathon sometime and maybe a 50 miler as well
Q: Who inspires you most?
A: All the amazing people I’ve met along the way who have pushed me to run past my limits! My running ladies: Dana Borowski she and I have pounded some serious miles out over the years; Tina Scott she’s an amazing runner and pretty much blows my socks off every time I run with her and she’s a fellow Team Beef teammate; Billie Inman just goes out there and slays it but then turns around and is kind and supportive to you no matter how you did. Last but not least is my husband Alex who hangs with our kiddos when I am out running!
Q: What advice do you have for new runners?
A: Make sure you get fitted for the proper shoes, find a goal, and go for it!