Q: Tell me a little bit about yourself. (Where you’re from, what you’re doing now…etc)
Krista: I grew up in Rapid. When I was a teenager I couldn’t wait to leave this town…now I can’t imagine living anywhere else! I’m a stay at home mom with 4 kids. I love to help out at church, school and last year got to help with the Southwest cross country team where my two oldest went to school. It was so fun, hoping I get to do it again!
David: I grew up in on the other side of the Hills in Newcastle. After college I moved to Rapid City, met Krista here, we have 4 kids so this is now home.
Q: How long have you been running and how did you get started?
Krista: I ran some in school but took it up again in 2009 when i decided to run a 5k to lose baby weight. I really struggled getting through the 3.1 miles. I knew if I really tired I could do so much better…things just took off from there.
David:I was playing intramural sports and ended up needing both achilles repaired so rather than going stir crazy I decided to start running instead. . . And that was about 10 years ago.
Q: Would you rather run with a group or alone?
Krista:I love running with others. Running with girlfriends is like therapy! And having four kids at home when Dave and I do get to run together it’s our chance to talk and reconnect.
David: With 4 kids and a busy work schedule I run by myself most of the time as I run early so it doesn’t interfere with the rest of the family and work schedule. But I would rather run with others as good conversation makes for a more pleasant run.
Q: Do you prefer roads or trails?
Krista: I’m usually on the road. I have only ran a few trails but would love to do more.
David: I have been a road runner for 99% of my running but, I just got some trail shoes I need to break in so I guess I plan on doing a bit more trial running in the future.
Q: What is your favorite distance or race?
Krista: My favorite is the half marathon. It’s a long enough distance to be challenging but doesn’t take all the training a marathon does so I can actually have a life!
David: My favorite distance is the half marathon. Seems I never get enough good consistent training in to stay injury free and do a Marathon.
Q: How do you stay motivated when you don’t want to run?
Krista: I always have a plan. After a race I sit down and make a new plan, set a new goal, find a new race. Having it down on paper and being able to check it off is extremely helpful for me.
Also, I’m not a morning person so I’ll make plans to run early with a girlfriend or Dave. When the alarm goes off there is no pushing the snooze when someone else is counting on you to show up.
David: seeing everybody else’s posts on strava helps keep me motivated
Q: If I didn’t run I’d ………..
Krista: Probably be a lot harder to be around, and a lot bigger around!
David: If I didn’t run I’d be a lot heavier that’s for sure, I’d probably have bigger bar tabs too, Running (or exercise in general) makes me feel better about my day.
Q: What do you find to be the most rewarding thing about running?
Krista: Finding your inner strength, overcoming obstacles and realizing you are capable of so much more than you thought. It really changes your outlook on not just running, but other aspects of your life.
David: Running has introduced me to a lot of very cool people that I wouldn’t have otherwise had the opportunity to meet. Plus it gives Krista and I have a reason to travel and do races in different places.
Q: What is your favorite running memory?
Krista: Traveling with Dave and friends to different races. We’ve had so much fun and our group is so supportive of each other.
David: I think my favorite memory of running was seeing my wife cross the finish line during her first half marathon in Austin. I knew she was going to be hooked and we could enjoy the sport together a lot more in the future.
Q: Do you have a pre-race ritual?
Krista: Rest, carbs and fluids
David: I guess my only pre-race ritual is having a caramel roll and and having a good BM. Without those two things a race just wouldn’t feel right. . . .
Q: What’s the most valuable lesson you have learned from running?
Krista: There’s always room for improvement. Every day is a new opportunity.
David: There are countless lessons to be learned but one that seems to be the most important to me is that persistence in getting out the door to run.
Q: What are your running goals for the future?
Krista: Keep improving, try new distances and terrains, challenge myself and have fun!
David: To keep running
Q: Who inspires you most?
Krista: My husband, friends and family. Also, pro runners like Cragg, Flanagan and Linden, not only for their ability and dedication but for the example they set of true sportsmanship. Even in big races they are there to support each other. I love a quote I saw from Desi “Recognise that someone else’s success does not take away from your own accomplishments.” It’s ok to be competitive but don’t let it stop you from supporting, encouraging and celebrating those around you.
David: not one person specifically, but in general I guess I look up to humble people that can dominate.
Q: What advice do you have for new runners?
Krista: In the beginning take it slow. Invest in good gear. Set small goals to help you stay motivated. Lastly, believe in yourself! A positive mindset is key. Have confidence in your own strength!
David: Don’t go too hard too soon and make it a habit, you will always have a better viewpoint on most things after a run.