BLOG
GRC Team - Dec 2022 Newsletter
Athlete Feature
Ellie taylor
Golden, CO
How did you become a runner?
I have been a runner my whole life! Both my parents were successful runners and worked in the world of running. My mom was my high school cross country and track coach - we always joked that I had no choice but to try running. :)
What does a typical training day look like for you?
I try to always start my day with a dynamic stretch followed by either a run or strength training. I find that starting my day with a workout not only makes me more productive in work but happier with my partner, coworkers, and friends.
You work so hard, and you recently had an amazing performance at CIM! Tell us about your journey to get there.
Thank you very much! I had many years of reoccurring injuries and had run my first marathon very unprepared. After moving to Colorado and being inspired by my friends and coworkers, I decided to try a Marathon again. Thanks to Coach Bridget and the Get Running team, I found a training plan that allowed me to stay at a lower mileage (and healthy) that led to a successful race at CIM. I am so grateful to currently be injury free!
Do you have another race on the horizon?
I am really excited to do a few shorter trail races this Summer, but will have Boston in 2024.
What's your proudest running moment?
I think CIM this year has been my proudest running moment, because it showed me that I can not only still run fast but successfully follow a training program. Something that I never thought possible!
What’s your “why” when it comes to the daily grind?
Running gives me confidence, good sleep, and a clear head. Getting up early and getting my workouts done means I can reach my fitness goals and be happier in my daily life.
Is there a piece of advice you'd like to share with the Get Running Team?
Have faith in yourself - allow yourself to get inspired by those you see on social media or pro Running athletes, but don't compare yourself to them. I have been a runner on multiple teams and have learned time and time again that no runner is the same - whether it be diets, fuel that works for you during your race, mileage, or even the shoes you wear. Find what works for you, and a great running program!
Race Results
CIM
Erika P - 2:53 (PR)
Neely G - 2:30 (PR)
Cait K - 2:39 (PR)
Katie C - 2:59 (PR)
Elizabeth H - 2:48
Ellie T - 3:14 (PR)
Dana S - 3:50
Other Marathon
Trisha V - 3:32
Half Marathon
Sherry L - 1:41
Maura K - 1:20
Matt R - 1:30
Veronica L - 1:58
Other
Lauren F - Club XC, 19:55
GRC Team - Nov 2022 Newsletter
Athlete Feature
Mindy Olson
How did you become a runner?
I ran cross country for a few years in high school, and ran a little bit in college just for exercise. For some reason, a year out of college I decided I wanted to run a marathon. I'm still not sure where that came from! I trained with a free plan from the internet. I ran long runs based on time because I didn't know what my pace was and I didn't carry any fuel - just stopped at drinking fountains along the way. I ran the 2001 Chicago Marathon and then figured I would never do that again. Seven years later my husband, Ethan Domke (another Get Running athlete), suggested that we should train for a marathon. Again, I'm not sure where that came from! We ran the Oklahoma City Marathon and have been running marathons ever since!
What does a typical training day look like for you?
A typical weekday training day starts very early for me. I am out the door to run before 5 a.m. in order to be back in time to get ready and eat breakfast with the kids before they need to go to school. The coffee pot is always programmed to be just done brewing when I come in the door from my run! I sneak in my strength workouts after the kids are in bed. Luckily Ethan prefers running in the evenings and I prefer the mornings so this schedule works well for us.
You had a change of plans with Indy. Tell us more about your decision making with that & how the race went!
We had signed up for the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon in November of 2022 after having great experiences there in 2018 and 2019. It is a pretty convenient drive and a flat and fast course. I always start checking the weather way too early prior to a race, and, like usual, the weather changed from perfect to horrible to fine many times over the weeks I was checking. However, the week prior to the race the forecast showed that it was going to be windy, and it became clear a couple days before the race that it was going to be very very windy. We were planning to leave on Friday, and on Thursday we briefly discussed if we should try to find a different race. On Friday morning when the forecast was not only for wind gusts of 50mph but potential thunderstorms, we decided to pivot to the Crossroads Marathon in Salina, KS. Since we were planning to drive, it was pretty easy logistically to make the switch. The Crossroads Marathon was in its first year and it was forecast to be pretty cold, but we figured that it gave us the best chance to meet our goal times. So, instead of heading east we turned west! The race went pretty well. It was well organized and chilly at the start but great weather! Ethan ended up running a PR and I was a few minutes off my previous best.
Do you have another race on the horizon?
I am planning to run the Carmel, IN marathon and we will both be running Boston this April.
What's your proudest running moment?
This is a tough question. I was proud of my Crossroads Marathon performance because I didn't give up in the second half. I was running almost completely by myself because it was such a small race and at some point it became clear it wasn't a PR day, but I kept grinding and finished strong.
What’s your “why” when it comes to the daily grind?
I run because of how it makes me feel. I feel better both physically and mentally when I am running consistently, and even when I don't feel like getting out of bed in the morning when it is dark and cold (a lot of days!) I know I will have a better day if I just get up and go. It is also fun to chase goals even when I don't reach them!
Is there a piece of advice you'd like to share with the Get Running Team?
My only advice is to just keep going and stay consistent. Any run is an accomplishment, even if it wasn't the time result you were hoping for. Also, thank you to Neely for the great coaching and training plans she has put together for me the last couple of years. I have had some very satisfying results and am still pushing for more!
Race Results
NYC Marathon
Adam S - 3:47
Miguel A-P - 3:48
Heather C - 3:53
Todd F - 2:48
Other Marathons
Ethan D - 3:01 (PR!)
Mindy O - 3:12 (PR, 2nd Place!)
Shannon P - 4:00
Caitlin Y - 3:57 (PR!)
Katie B - 3:33
Kristin F - 4:22
Half Marathon
Neely G - 1:12
Lauren F - 1:20
Maura K - 1:27
Danny P - 1:50
Katy S - 1:38
May S - 1:31
Caitlin Y - 1:41
Kara F - 1:25
10K
Maura K - 35:59
Taylor B - 44:41 (Turkey Trot)
Lauren Y - 41:11 (Turkey Trot)
5K
Danny P - 24:20
Katy S - 20:54 (Turkey Trot)
Katie B - 35:34 (Turkey Trot)
Amy L - 21:17 (Turkey Trot)
Ashley M - 21:31 (Turkey Trot)
Other
Julie H - 55:08 (Run for the Diamonds, 6th!)
Tess C - 59:30 (12K, Turkey Trot)
Jaclyn P - 56:13 (12K, Turkey Trot)
GRC Team - Oct 2022 Newsletter
Athlete Feature
Oriana Montani
Outside Boston, Massachusetts
How did you become a runner?
I started running regularly after I graduated from college in 2007. There have been a few down periods since then, but that’s when it started.
What does a typical training day look like for you?
On a typical training day, I wake up around 6 (sometimes earlier if I am good about getting to bed early or later if I am especially bad about getting to bed timely), drink some water, have a coffee and a ucan bar, reply to some emails and spend a little time with my three kids, do about 10 minutes of mobility work, and head out the door, followed by a pretty busy work day, that usually, with the exception of dinner and kids bedtime, ends around 10-11pm. On the weekends, the mornings look similar but I try to sneak in a couch nap or two if I can in the afternoon. All that said, there are training days where I start working early and have to find another time to squeeze the run in, sometimes it’s late afternoon, sometimes is 8:00pm. As a lot of people with kids and/or busy jobs experience, sometimes typical can more aspirational.
You've been working hard towards a marathon PR/BQ and you just got a huge one at Chicago! Tell us about your journey to get there.
In my mid twenties, after running a few half marathons and two marathons, I set a goal for myself to try to BQ in my mid-thirties (very specific, I know). In 2019, after running a very poorly executed half marathon (my first half marathon in many years and my first since having children), I decided that maybe I should let the BQ goal go, that being fast enough just wasn’t something I could do. Then I started reading more about training properly (easy running and workouts had never been a part of my training or even my vocabulary) and coaching. With a busy job and kids, I decided a coach was the best plan for me. I registered for the Chicago Marathon for 2020 with the Finish MS team and started making a lot of progress and feeling more confident that a BQ could be in the cards for me. Then, a few months after hiring a coach, the pandemic started and I got pregnant with my third son. I was fortunate that the Chicago Marathon was so generous with pandemic deferrals and I was able to defer my entry to 2022. In February, 2021, about two months after my son was born, I started Neely’s return to running plan and used it to get myself back into a regular running routine. It was a slow process to get back to where I was pre-pregnancy (I was not really able to run much after my first trimester, but was diligent about spinning). That fall, about nine months after my third was born, I signed up with Get Running and told them my BQ goal. We started with a half that I had been training for with a race plan to run 8:05-8:15 pace, and I surprised even myself, running a 1:43 with a sub 7 minute last mile. Three weeks later, I surprised myself again and ran my town’s turkey trot in 21:41. After these races, I talked to Bridget and we decided that my Chicago goal was not to BQ but to see what I could do. This spring, we kept working, and I eeked in a half marathon PR in May, however didn’t have a great race, which I attribute to not getting enough sleep and a whole lot of self-doubt. It was around this time that I started working with a sports psychologist (@emilysaulboston) to help with my mental game. It was a hot summer and it took more than one pep talk from Bridget and Neely (and my wonderful and supportive husband) to keep me moving forward, but little by little things really started to click - after a cape cod vacation in August, I felt rested and started prioritizing rest and sleep when I could and despite the miles ramping up to numbers I had never seen before, I was feeling better than ever (albeit, tired!). I came to Chicago feeling like I had everything I needed to succeed, but still nervous about the GPS, hotel sleep, pre-race fueling while traveling, etc. I went out race morning, linked on to the 3:30 pace group to get me through the first six miles, knowing that I wanted to start conservatively, and took off from there. Everything clicked, not only did I beat my time goal, but I had an amazing race - I followed my plan (pace and nutrition) and finished really strong.
You employed a unique strategy to keep calm in your race. Tell us about it!
About 6 weeks out from the marathon I started to really think about what I was going to listen to during the race. I always listen to podcasts and audiobooks on my long runs and I tend to really enjoy my long runs, but I always listened to pump up music during my work outs. I discussed this with my sports psych and she suggested that I try listening to an audiobook for the marathon. I practiced during two longer marathon paced workouts and decided to go for it. So, I listened to an audiobook for the marathon and it was great. My headphones actually died around mile 22 and I was able to stay really calm about it. In the past, this would have really thrown me off, but I think I was able move on easily in part because I had been listening to a book and not music.
What's your proudest running moment?
There are so many things that have made me feel proud over the past 5 months, from doing a threshold track workout at 9pm on a Thursday after a really tough work call, to making it through a comically bad 18 mile run without quitting, to my six year old telling everyone we met in Chicago that he was there to watch his mom run the marathon, but the biggest is definitely running past my husband and three boys as I approached the finish line in Chicago.
What’s next on your race calendar?
The next race on the calendar in my town’s Turkey Trot.
What’s your “why” when it comes to the daily grind?
I think there are many - time away from work/technology, exercise, hopefully modeling working hard toward a goal for my kids.
Athlete Feature
May Shek
Houston, TX
How did you become a runner?
My running journey started about 15 years ago when I was working abroad in Calgary. I did not want to purchase ski equipment so I decided to join the local outdoor club. The first thing on the schedule was the Sunday Morning Run. I started with 10 mins run and 1 min walk approach. Very soon, I was able to run continuously and consistently; after all, it was hard to say no to running, breakfast and friendship. In the Spring of 2018, everyone in the group was training for the Calgary race weekend (10k, half and marathon). Under the encouragement of the group, I signed up for the 10k race and I was hooked. The rest was history. As of 2022, I have run 15 marathons of which 3 of them as the Houston Marathon official pacer, over 20 half marathons, and over 40 5k (and less than 5 10k’s)
What does a typical training day look like for you?
Most of the days I get up close to 5am so that I can get a run in before going into work. Most days, I will try to get in 5-mins stretch before run, hydrate (with small dose of electrolyte), put my shoes on and go. These days I am working on getting a bit more time after the run to stretch and include mobility work.
You’ve been diligently chasing a sub 20min 5K for a while and recently achieved that! Tell us about your journey to get there.
My sub 20 5k chase is a classic story of keep showing up.
I signed up for my first official 5k race back in 2010 and completed it in 23ish mins. In the next 2 years, I was able to work down my 5k time and consistently ran between 21-22 min 5k. Very soon, I found myself stuck in a plateau and desperately trying to break that 20 min barrier.
I have put 5k’s in the backburner for most of the last few years in pursuit of the house Marathon record (another story later). My goal for chasing a sub 20 min 5k rekindled during the pandemic. With Team Get Running’s help, I found confidence through 5k time trials. I found the silver lining in the pandemic situation, and I was able to putting in the work to build strength for the 5k. When racing returned 2H of 2021, I gave several attempts and each time getting closer to the goal but yet not quite there.
Neely had been there supporting me along the way. We analyzed our race pacing strategy and adjusted what did not go as well. We focused on what I could control (instead of stressing out about the weather). During the 4th of July 5k in 2022 (Starting temperature was 82 deg F with 90% humidity) , with my husband’s help, I saw the clock hit 19:XX when I crossed the line. 5 mins later, I found that the course was short. Neely and I laughed about it and then quickly focused on how we can sharpen my training and capitalize on my fitness when the weather is cooler. The day finally came on 10/1. On a cooler 57 deg F day, I gave my all and focused on effort. And finally, after a decade long chase, I achieved my breakthrough and reached my goal. The 20 min barrier had been broken after over 40 5k’s in the last decade (not counting time trials).
What's your proudest running moment?
So many to choose. 1) My first time pacing the Houston Marathon as the official pacer. Words cannot describe how fulfilling it felt to hear that my runners achieved personal bests or their goals when we crossed the finish line together. 2) Crossing the finish line with my running friend at Fargo Marathon as she cemented her BQ minus 5 mins (after missing the cut off by a few agonizing seconds the year before). I was so proud of her – she was one of the many inspirations on why I kept trying for my sub 20 5k!! 3) First time qualifying for Boston in Houston Marathon 2012 (also my first Houston Marathon). I saw so many familiar faces on the course. One of my friends was at mile 25 at the Houston Marathon 2012, and she screamed, “you are going to Boston.” This motivated me to picked up my strides and crossed the finish line with two fists in the air. I guess, the rest was history they say?!
What’s next on your race calendar?
On 10/30, I conquered my fear of 10k races (irony as it was my first official race), and ran a personal best. My next race is the Cypress Half on 11/13.
What’s your “why” when it comes to the daily grind?
Running has helped me become a better person. I learned that I have to be introspective and truly listen to my body to run with joy. Running helps me start the day right. It helps me focus on the why YES vs. why NOT. Above all, I find many running days with friends are quality time to catch up with my friends. Equally as important are the solo days where I get to reflect and clear my head. Running also allows me to channel my competitiveness positively. Over the last few years, I have grown to translate what I learned via running into my professional life.
What advice would you like to share with the Get Running team?
1) Consistency pays off. 2) Celebrate little wins along the way. 3) Choose to be kind.
Race Results
Chicago Marathon
Shannon C - 4:29
Lauren D - 6:27
Todd F - 2:59
Moncef A - 2:54
Lilla F - 3:23
Julie H - 2:44
Adam S - 3:15
Oriana M - 3:25
Erin O - 3:21
Marathon
Katy S - 3:20 (PR, London)
Angie C - 3:56 (PR, London)
Alexis S - 3:31 (Steamtown)
Steph G - 5:01 (Marathon debut!!)
Heather C - 3:35 (PR, MCM)
Brieanne S - 3:17 (Albany)
Half Marathon
Erika P - 1:23
Rochelle J - 1:31
Elizabeth H - 1:18
Neely G - 1:16 (Boulderthon HM)
Bridget M - 1:39 (PR, Boulderthon HM)
Katie C - 1:29 (Boulderthon HM)
Caitlin Y - 1:43
Michelle C - 1:49
Ericka M - 1:17
Lizzy C - 3:10
Marjorie N - 2:01 (PR, Twilight Red Rock Trail HM)
Ellie T - 1:34
10K
Beth R - 58:32 (Trail race)
May S - 41:41
Alonso M - 46:22 (PR)
5K
May S - 19:54 (PR)
Mike F - 24:29
Kara F - 18:09 (PR)
Other
Danny P - 5mi, 36:06
Beth R - 15K, 8:30 pace (as long run)
GRC Team - Sept 2022 Newsletter
Athlete Feature
Rochelle Johnston
Moncton, New Brunswick (on the east coast of Canada - about an 8 hour drive from Boston)
How did you become a runner?
I was introduced to running initially through soccer. I had a coach in high school who required us to be able to run 45 minutes at practice in order for us to be able to play on the team. I realized over time that I enjoyed the practices more than the actual games, because I loved running so much! I didn't run a lot in my first few years out of high school, but then rediscovered it near the end of university as a coping mechanism for my busy student-life. I signed up for my first official race ever - a marathon - in 2007, and have been hooked since! To date, I've run 17 marathons and countless other races.
What does a typical training day look like for you?
My training varies from day to day, depending on life demands with work and family commitments. I work full time as a hospital pharmacist, and I have a 6 year old son (Simon) who keeps me very busy! I am not a morning person, so I tend to prefer to run at lunchtime or later in the day. On workout days, my sister and I will often meet after work and tackle the miles together. I try to incorporate strength work into my schedule at least 3 times per week, but usually only for 15-30min blocks after my son is asleep.
Tell us about your journey and performance at the Canadian Championships.
This story starts all the way back in November of 2020!
I had been running throughout 2020 as a way of keeping fit and mentally processing the changing world around me as we navigated the first year of the pandemic. There were no races, and I was thrilled when I saw that the Marathon Project had a virtual option for a variety of distances. I needed motivation, so I signed up under Neely's team and committed to running both the 5k and the 10k virtual events. I went to my favorite half-mile loop on a Thursday morning in November, and after a proper warmup, ran 5k as fast as I could. My PB prior to this day was 19:08, and I was thrilled to see that I ran 37 seconds faster in 18:31.
In September of 2020, Moncton was set to host the 5k Canadian Championships, but the event was postponed due to the pandemic. It was postponed again in 2021, and then finally was rescheduled to be held in person in September of 2022. The qualifying time to enter the race was 18:30, which made me smile -- I was only one second off! I daydreamed about how cool it would be to line up with Canada's best, even though I'd be guaranteed to finish last, but I didn't pursue it further as I knew I was no longer in the kind of shape required to run the qualifying time (and I was still over the cut-off by one second).
In August, the elite athlete coordinator reached out to a friend and asked if any local runners had qualifying times that were under or hovering around the cutoff. They had hoped to round-out the field with some local New Brunswick athletes, and my name was presented as an option. The coordinator reached out to me, and I accepted the offer to run in the elite field. When I got the email back that I was included with the elite race, I literally burst into laughter and could not stop laughing all day. Me? Elite? On the same start line as Canadian Olympians and record holders? It just didn't feel like real life. By the time I was accepted into the field, it left me with just about a month to prepare for the race. I decided that I would do my best to get as fit as I could during that time, and enjoy the experience regardless. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity to line up with the best in the country in my hometown, and I was not going to pass that up!
Three weeks prior to the race, I tested positive for covid and it hit me very hard. I had every symptom and had to take 10 full days off running. I was able to return to short runs about
12 days before the race, and they were extremely difficult due to ongoing fatigue (it felt like my body's battery was completely drained) and reduced lung capacity + persistent cough. I debated scratching from the race, but I didn't want to let my ego get in the way of this once in a lifetime opportunity. One evening while I was on a quiet run in my neighborhood, I was analyzing my options and decided that I would run no matter what. This would be the perfect opportunity to show my son (who has a tendency to be competitive) that it is okay to lose, and it's okay to come in last sometimes. In addition, I laughed when I realized that even if I were in tip-top shape, I'd likely still finish in last place due to the high caliber athletes in the field. Whether I ran 19 minutes or 30 minutes -- wouldn't make much difference to my finishing place, so why not show up and soak up the experience?
The course was a flat stretch of pavement in downtown Moncton - one "big" loop and one "small" loop. Before the women's race, I was able to watch Ben Flanagan take a crack at the Canadian men's 5k road record -- he came up a few seconds short, but ran the fastest 5k ever run on Canadian soil in 13:38 -- it was very exciting to witness! I did a little warmup & some strides, and then lined up on the start line with the elite women. I listened to the announcer introduce all of the runners, and really felt proud to have been invited to run with this group of incredible women. I set myself in the back of the pack & sprinted off the start-line when the horn blew to start the race. We flew off the line at around a pace of 5:15/mile -- I held this for about 45 seconds before I eased off and ran by effort (still - pretty cool to at least start with the entire group). I ran by what I felt to be 5k effort & as hard as I could make my covid-recovering body run that day. Surprisingly, my breathing felt relaxed, but my legs/body just felt absolutely drained. While my breathing & effort felt appropriate, there was nothing I could do to will my legs to move any faster than they were moving for the remainder of the race.
Despite being healthily behind the entire field, I honestly felt like a celebrity out there! I was the only hometown runner from Moncton running in this race, and our local running community really showed up. I remember having the loudest cheers after we started and every time I crossed the group of spectators at the start & finish area. I've never felt such love directed specifically to me during a race before, and it was really special to experience. Family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, and running buddies all showed up to show their support, fully knowing that I would be the final finisher. It makes me tear up when I remember it.
Because I was so far behind the leaders, I got to cheer for them by name when they passed me on the other side of the road for both of the turns. I literally smiled the whole time, and had SO much fun! My finish time was 21:30, which was 3 minutes slower than my qualifier and 2 minutes behind the 2nd last finisher. Despite being so far behind the field, everyone waited at the finish area to cheer me in. It was incredible to hear my community's support so loud and clear, just for me.
Even if the time I ran wasn't what I feel what I am capable of, I am so incredibly proud that I set my ego aside and decided to run anyway. I hope that this experience will be a good example to discuss with my son for lessons in the future. We don't always have to BE our best to show up - the important thing is to DO your best no matter what cards you're handed and you can hold your head high & be proud that you gave it your all.
What's your proudest running moment?
My favorite event is the Cabot Trail Relay, which is a 24 hour relay race held on Cape Breton Island, where I grew up. I've been participating in this race with my Moncton team, which includes my brother and my sister, since 2013.
In 2018, I was assigned the "glory leg" -- the final leg of the race that finishes in the most epic finish-line shute. Our team was neck and neck with another team for the top mixed title, with only a couple of minutes separating first and second place in this division. I ran my heart out for the entire leg (which included a mountain!), and finished as the top female. My time also was the push that our team needed to take the top mixed team title, and clinched our win for this division. While it was incredibly special to finish this leg so strong, it meant the world to me that it also helped advance our team to this victory!
What’s next on your race calendar?
My race calendar is completely open at the moment -- I'm taking a few months to work on rebuilding fitness following a less-than-ideal year on the run. I've got my eyes set on a few marathons in 2023 (fingers crossed for Berlin!!), and hope to run the BAA 5k race during Boston Marathon weekend.
What’s your “why” when it comes to the daily grind?
For running specifically, my why is to be able to show up to life as my best self. I am a better & more well-rounded person when running and goal-setting are part of my routine. Running is where I process difficult emotions & situations, where I come up with my best ideas, and where I learn to truly pay attention and appreciate the world around me. The physical benefits and the finish lines are also pretty great, but my true "why" is that running helps me to become my truest & best self every day.
What advice would you like to share with the Get Running team?
My biggest piece of advice is to trust your coaches, and trust the process! Think about the big picture when it comes to your running -- I like Alexi Pappas' analogy of a sand-castle. Every run, every workout, every stride are all pieces of sand in a sandcastle. Individually, they don't look like much at all, but they come together over time to make something beautiful! Trust the process, stack those pieces of sand, and eventually you'll see the beautiful sand-castle you've created as you meet your running goals.
You can follow Rochelle on IG @Ro__Jo
Race Results
Berlin Marathon
Moncef A - 2:50
Whit C - 3:27, BQ
Ashley M - 3:44
Half Marathon
Ethan D - 1:26, PR
Kelly B - 1:37 (Harrisburg HM)
Shannon P - 1:46 (Equinox HM)
5K
May S - 20:50, Won!
Danny P - 23:00
Rochelle J - 21:30 (Canadian 5K Champs)
Bree U - 18:06
Caitlin K - 18:51 (Elk Run), 8th place!
Other
Dillon G - 23:14 (6K XC)
Neely G - 14:03 (4K XC), Won + New Course Record!
Ellie T - 1:38 (9mi MTN Race up A-Basin)
Bridget M - 1:57 (9mi MTN Race up A-Basin)
Bree U - 29:43 (5mi), PR
GRC Team - Aug 2022 Newsletter
Athlete Feature
Tricia DeNardis
Midlothian, VA
How did you become a runner?
I started running when I was in 8th grade, just around my neighborhood with my dad! I remember at the beginning I couldn't make it far and each day he would have a goal for me to reach "one more mailbox", soon enough I was running laps around the neighborhood. I went on to run XC and track through high school and then got into marathons in college after they dropped the XC team my freshman year.
What does a typical training day look like for you?
I have 3 little kids (6,4 and almost 2) so my days start pretty early before the chaos begins 😉 I typically get up between 4:30 and 5 and hit the pavement. I love having that time for myself before switching back into mom mode.
We want to know all about your recent Half Marathon PR! Tell us about how the race went and your journey to get there.
This was a really awesome surprise for me, as I haven't raced a half in a while and this particular race (The Ashland Half Marathon) is advertised as "Summer's Hottest Half", it lived up to it's name on race day where temps were recorded in the mid 80's at the start of the race, humidity off the charts. I am training for the Richmond Marathon in November and wanted to get a race in to grease the wheels a bit. Coach Neely had me hold it back a bit during the first half and then aim to push it the second. I raced 100% by feel, only glancing at my watch a few times and even with the heat and hills, beat my PR by 3 min (and beat my previous race time here by 5 minutes...14 years ago!) I was really happy with this as it's been a tough year coming back from injuries, postpartum and low iron/ferritin. It was great to feel like ME again!
What's your proudest running moment?
100% my proudest running moments have come after having my kids. Every training run, every race, is so much more rewarding knowing all of the work it has taken to just tie up my laces and get after it. I ran my first full marathon in 7 years over the spring, and I honestly teared up those final miles just thinking about each of my pregnancies, all of the stroller miles and the journey it's been becoming a mother. Running is not something I ever take for granted.
What’s next on your race calendar?
The Richmond Marathon in November!
What’s your “why” when it comes to the daily grind?
My kids are absolutely at the center of my "why". Running and the daily grind not only gives me the time I desperately need for myself, but it makes me a better wife, a better mother and I love the example it sets for them. Running is just as big of a part of their lives as it is mine, and I love that I get to share it with them.
What advice would you like to share with the Get Running team?
For the mother runners in particular- you guys are rockstars. Whenever you are doubting yourself or feeling unsure of your potential and capabilities, just remember how much you've accomplished already. Not only did you grow humans (you bada$$, you!), now you get to show them how your determination and grit out there on the roads can translate to all areas of life. If you can do it, they can too. They're always watching us...keep on running ❤
You can follow Tricia on IG @burpeesandburpcloths
Race Results
Half Marathon
Steph G - 2:29
Tricia D - 1:36
Julie H - 1:20
10K
Shannon P - 52:04
Kara F - 40:10
5K
Taylor B - 23:40
Danny P - 22:50
Kelly B - 21:04
Other
Katie C - 5:32 (Pearl Street Mile)
Lauren Y - 30:10 (4mi)
Mike F - 5:53 (1mi)
Kara F - 5:21 (1mi)
Mike F - 12:29 (2mi)
Oriana M - 53:00 (Falmouth RR)
Katy S - 1:15 (10mi)
GRC Team - July 2022 Newsletter
Athlete Feature
Alonso Mago
Houston, TX
How did you become a runner?
All my life I have practiced team sports– soccer, volleyball, tennis, racquetball. I also have three girls, and an awesome working wife. After starting a family, I realized I didn’t feel comfortable playing racquetball with friends for 3-4 hours in the gym with the new family and work. In the last 10 years, I have been trying to stay healthy without a real systematic approach to exercise and trying to also adjust to a work-life balance in a job that doesn’t typically have a balance – investment banking. To answer how I became a runner, I need to mention many names that have helped me in this journey: Joe my neighbor, Moncef my best friend and passionate runner (pictured with me above), my brother Ricardo who I ran my first marathon with, and my wife Marjorie who has run with me for the last 4 years in almost all the races. I started running very early in the morning 5 am (2-3 miles) with my neighbor and after a couple of years, I realized I really enjoyed running in the morning and that I should sign up for a marathon. I was jogging and walking at that time (Galloway method); and when I turned 40 years old in 2018, I told my brother Ricardo that I knew exactly what I wanted as a present for me. I wanted him to train and run with me for my first marathon. His only condition was to choose the race given he didn’t want to do Houston (where we currently live). Given our complete ignorance about running, Ricardo chose Lake Tahoe Marathon for its beauty and I said “sure”. There are many problems with that race but just to say a few: high altitude, enormous inclines, and marathon was in October (day of the run was 26F and windy), and training was in the middle of the summer in Houston doing our first ever long runs at 100F. That was probably the first time I thought I was “running” with a workout for a particular event. Many moons later, I have run 2 full marathons (in both I have been injured either in training or on race day) and many half marathons which I feel is the perfect “race” for me to keep me in shape. My friend Moncef and my wife Marjorie have both helped me continue to run, and I will talk more about Half when I speak about my current PR.
What does a typical training day look like for you?
First, I would say that it has changed drastically since I bought a NordicTrack X32i in December 2021; changing an old elliptical for this incredible treadmill has made a significant impact in me and the full family. Normally I try to do my runs in the morning given I feel I never have time at nighttime (unless is very late) and the summer months in Houston make it very hard to run comfortably at night without feeling you are running into a pool of humidity. I normally run as soon as I wake up and the only food I normally have for any run is a banana. Since the treadmill purchase, I have had many runs during the day, or at night and my diet has changed as well before the run given I might have dinner and wait for an hour or so before jumping on the treadmill. Sunday long runs, I have always done with my wife; and we do them outside to keep our body accustomed to running outside no matter what happens with weather or any other factors that may affect your running like watching your watch for pace, gels, water, bathroom breaks, etc.
You just got a HUGE Half Marathon PR (Congrats!!) Tell us about your journey to get there.
There are many factors that helped me achieved this 9 min drop in a Half. I went from 2h 4 mins to 1h 55 mins breaking the 2 hour barrier. Moncef, my friend and runner had been telling me about his running coach Neely for over a year and I saw a very different type of commitment since he started training with her. Also, huge improvements in his knowledge on running given he started reading and listening a lot of podcasts and books on the subject. I had shared with him my running journey, and after many conversations on the subject, he suggested I should connect with the Get Running Team and get a coach for one race. It certainly paid off hugely…and I can visualize many more improvements and PRs that I can do after this initial training.
There are many things that contributed to my PR and I’m sure I’m missing some:
This was the first time I fully ran a race (I was running and walking before)
I had always been running with my wife as an “enjoyment” and keeping up the training and weight – this was the first time I followed my own training plan and while I would have my long run with my wife, I was fully committed and separated from her on my running “work day” commitment. We both have full time jobs and with 3 girls
I signed up for my own race in Napa, California without my wife so I felt the weight of running for myself and making a PR to break the 2 hour mark
I had normally run 3 times per week in prior trainings; this was the first time I increased to 4 times per week
Given the race was in July, I did over 60% of the short runs in the treadmill – very easy also to control speed/time there
Lastly and super important, I was with Bridget McGahen - a great training coach from the Get Running Team - throughout the training. We had many good interactions mostly remotely given we are in two different cities. I did talk to her once and had a video conference once before the race. Both were extremely useful to get to know each other and some specific tips for the race (which had inclines and declines) that I had never really train for
This is a great achievement, and I was able to enjoy the journey as well as the race day. I couldn’t have done it without my wife Marjorie, Moncef, my coach Bridget (and Neely who helped the weekend Bridget’s family was moving). I know I can drop this PR even more making a few adjustments. I’m ready for more.
What’s your proudest running moment?
You have probably notice I’m a team player and have always loved doing sports with friends. Given I have always run with my wife, my proudest running moment involve her. First, we ran our prior PR 2h 4 mins together and I absolutely felt amazing on that race, at the finish line we hold hands and finished together with a PR in March this year. Then, as a surprise, Marjorie decided to run her own race the same day I ran in Napa but in Spain by herself, no public, no water, absolutely by herself and she broke the 2 hour mark with 1h 59 mins. She did that 6 hours before I ran my Half in Napa given time difference and I felt so proud of her…and us. Marjorie will join me fully with her own coach from Get Running Team for her next race; it’s time for both us of to develop our full potential while enjoying our company
What’s next on your race calendar?
I’d like to work two key aspects of the race: speed and then flat racing with endurance. I’m planning on working on speed signing up for a 10k in October this year and then going for a PR in the Chevron Houston Half in January 2023. I have also talked to Bridget about running a full marathon but I want to make sure this time I don’t suffer any injuries. Given the mileage it takes and the dual career family with kids, I still don’t know if that is “my race”… only time will tell…
What’s your “why” when it comes to the daily grind?
I think this is the easiest question of all — my family: my wife, my parents, my 3 daughters — they are my “why” in everything I do. If I’m healthy both in body and mind, I can be better for them and the people I love.
What advice would you like to share with the Get Running team?
I wasn’t sure if getting a coach was the right move for me but it has made a huge impact on my performance. Moncef told me to “trust the process”… and here I am, going for a lot more. I like to be able to talk to someone (or do the runs with someone) given my personality enjoys the interaction with others while training. Finding a running partner, or even on the treadmill using Ifit while a coach speaks with you virtually, spending many coffees or lunches speaking with a friend about running, or finding a running team to do your long runs. I have realized there are ways to run “with a team” and enjoy the journey. Get Running Team has worked for me and I hope it works for you! Stay healthy and keep on running!
Race Results
Half Marathon
Alonso M // Napa - 1:55 (PR)
Heather C - 1:42
Todd F - 1:16 (PR)
Cait K - 1:24
Nicole S - 1:46 (PR)
10K
Lauren Y // Peachtree - 43:28
Danny P // Peachtree - 48:48
5K
Kara F - 18:58
Katy S - 20:40 (1st Female)
Kelly B - 20:24
Julie H - 17:40
May S - 19:59
Bree U - 18:16
Katie C - 19:03 (Altitude PR)
Kara F - 18:56
Other
Caitlin Y // 1mi - 6:31
Todd F // 1mi - 4:53
Replay Neely & Cindy’s Webinar!
"Neely Spence Gracey and Cindy Kuzma hosted the webinar, ‘Breakthrough Women’s Running: Dream Big and Train Smart.’ They covered how to set goals and go after them, talked about the way hormones influence performance, explained why and how to get intentional about recovery, and also discussed Neely’s unique, performance-enhancing approach to breathing on the run. Watch this presentation and get the tools and inspiration needed to take your running to the next level."
Strength Training Options in Coach Bridget’s Vector Strength App
GRC Team - June 2022 Newsletter
Race Results
Marathon
Dillon G, Grandma’s Marathon - 3:11
Half Marathon
Shannon P, Estes HM - 1:51
Shannon P, Slacker HM - 1:49
Angie C - 2:02
10K
Shannon P - 51:20
Nicole S -
Caitlin Y - 46:30 (PR)
Katy S, BAA 10K - 43:58
Lauren Y, Peachtree - 43:28
5K
Julie H - 18:16 (PR) + won!
Julie H - 18:45
Carly C - 19:18
Kara F - 18:58
Kara F - 18:56
Other
Alex B (1mi) - 5:02 (PR)
Lauren F (Steeple) - 10:55
Lauren F (1500m) - 4:35
GRC Team - May 2022 Newsletter
Athlete Feature
Todd Fergus
Where are you located?
I was born in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and after 15 years away from my home state for school and medical training, I returned to my hometown in 2008. My wife and two daughters and I also spend a lot of time at our cottage in Traverse City, Michigan, so many of my Strava posts are from there.
What's your IG handle, if you have one?
@stentordoc Most of my "epic content" is posted on Twitter, but my rare posts on IG are pretty lit too 🙂
How did you become a runner?
My wife, Christina, wanted to run a marathon for her 40th birthday, so I decided to join her in the endeavor. Within a couple weeks of completing our first marathon in June 2014, Rock&Roll San Diego, we signed up for Rock&Roll Las Vegas. I dropped my marathon time from 3:30 to 3:15, narrowly missing qualifying for Boston, and I was forever hooked on the sport. It became one of my life's passions to qualify for Boston, and after that to just keep getting faster.
What does a typical training day look like for you?
I used to run after work, but that created a lot of stress during the workday, worrying about getting out of work on time and making it home in time for family dinner. Consequently, a few years ago I switched to 100% early morning runs. It really doesn't bother me to get up 1-2 hours early to get my run in before work, and then I'm set up for a relaxed workday.
I typically get up a 5:00, spend an hour drinking coffee, eating a banana with almond butter, and going through my warm-up routine; then I'm out the door by 6:00 or 6:30. After my run and cool-down, I'm usually rushing to drink some chocolate milk (or a denser protein shake after a hard workout), shower, and get to work by 8:30.
You just got a new marathon PR (Congrats!!) Tell us about your journey to get there.
I ran 10 marathons in 2014-2016, mostly following the 3 runs/week method described in the book "Run Less, Run Faster." This training method was probably the best thing for me as a new runner, avoiding burnout and overtraining, and it allowed me to lower my PR from 3:30 down to 3:06. But I was plateauing, and I really wanted to break 3:00, so in late 2016 I reached out to Neely to coach me to the next level. She immediately bumped me up to running 5 days/week, and eventually up to my current 6 days/week. She decreased some of workout intensity in favor of increased volume, which allowed me to stay healthier (although I still have my share of niggles and minor injuries). Probably the biggest change came in 2020 when she dropped one of my two "workouts" per week in favor of a "medium long run" of 12-14 miles. It only took one marathon cycle with Neely to break 3 hours (in Traverse City), and my marathon PR's have steadily and predictably come down as my weekly volume has gone up. My biggest breakthroughs have come in the Chicago Marathon, where I dropped my PR from 2:58 to 2:51 in 2017, and then down to 2:43 in 2018. But my favorite race remains the Bayshore Marathon, run right down the road from my home in Traverse City, where I just lowered my PR to 2:41 on Memorial Day Weekend this year.
What's your proudest running moment?
Shortly after running the NYC Marathon in 2017, I found out I had a torn labrum in my hip. I was determined to avoid surgery, so I embarked on a protracted course of physical therapy, and eventually worked my way back into running. After 4 months of worrying that I'd never be the same runner again, I had a great race in Boston, finally avoiding the late-race "bonk" that I had the previous two years, and this time getting to experience the joy of running a beautiful race, soaking in the electric atmosphere of the last few miles. Surviving the brutally cold and rainy and windy conditions of that 2018 Boston gave me even more satisfaction that I had achieved something I didn't think was possible.
What's next on your race calendar?
Now that my spring marathons are complete (Boston and Bayshore), I'll run some shorter races this summer (including a track mile!). In July, I'll start a solid 12 week training block to get ready for what I hope will be another breakthrough race in Chicago. I qualified for the American Development corral, so I'm excited to get close-up with the pros at the start, right before they gap me by over a minute in the first mile!!
What's your "why" when it comes to the daily grind?
Running a strong race, especially if I achieve my goal, is such a gigantic rush. But I've been on the other side too, finishing races dry-heaving, or walking the last 8 miles of a race. If I want to have more of the rewarding and fun experiences, I know I need to put in the work for the weeks to months leading up to the race. I count every morning run, every gym workout, every core session as a deposit in the fitness bank that I can eventually use to make a huge withdrawal on race day, increasing the odds of getting that rush from a successful race.
What advice would you like to share with the Get Running team?
I know it already gets said a lot, but CONSISTENCY is the biggest key to getting faster. Consistent running, day after day, month after month, training block after training block. Injuries and illness are huge barriers to consistency, so eating well and getting enough sleep (which can be so hard!) are as important as any long run or workout. And if you can find time for a consistent warm-up routine, consistent cool-down routine, consistent core-work, and consistent strength training, it's all the better. (side note: Neely introduced me to the Core-X video on YouTube, and I've now done this 5 minute core routine 833 days in a row!)
Running is one of the few sports that doesn't really require much athletic talent; the more work we put in, the better we will perform (as opposed to golf, where the more I practice the worse I get!). I've been obsessed with seeing how fast I can get my aging body to go, and having someone like Neely guide me through this thrill ride for the last 5 ½ years has been invaluable!
Race Results
Marathon
Wallis F - 3:35 (PR & BQ)
Meghan F - 4:05 (debut!)
Ali L - 3:23 (BQ)
Todd F - 2:41 (PR)
John A - 3:08
Half Marathon
Henry H - 1:27
Caitlin Y - 1:42
Megan M - 1:34 (debut!)
Conchessa R - 1:57
Oriana M - 1:42
Caroline R - 1:38
Amy S - 1:50 (1st postpartum)
Mindy M - 1:40
Caitlin K - 1:21
Shannon P - 1:50
Trisha V - 1:39
Caitlin Y - 1:41 (PR)
Elizabeth H - 1:19
10K
Ed B - 44:26
Katie C - 39:43
Neely G - 35:04
5K
Mikaela W - 21:07 (debut!)
Nicole S - 18:28
Esperanza - 19:48
Other
Vanessa J (4mi) - 31:32
Kelly B (4mi) - 28:40
Lauren F (Track Steeple) - 10:48
Team Announcements
We’re launching a CIM training group! You can upgrade from any other training plan. More details here.
Coach Bridget’s strength training app is live. You can join her “Weekly Workouts” group for just $20/mo. More details here.
GRC Team - Apr 2022 Newsletter
Athlete Features
Kara Forwood
Chesterbrook, PA
How did you become a runner?
I’ve been running since I was 12 years old! My parents were runners and I was so excited when I could finally join the cross country team in middle school.
What does a typical training day look like for you?
I always prefer running first thing so I am out the door by 6:30 am on week days. I will typically do a strength workout or yoga either at lunch or after work.
Tell us about your journey to Boston!
My main goal for ever running a marathon was to run Boston. I’m a huge fan of the sport so I’ve been watching it for years. My dad also ran it when I was little so I always thought that was cool! I signed up for my first marathon in April 2020. I trained for about 10 weeks before it was canceled. I signed up for another a year later, which was canceled a month out! I wasn’t missing my chance again so I signed up to run Myrtle Beach marathon last minute and it went really well and I qualified for Boston!
What went well at Boston and what was your favorite part of the race?
Overall Boston was a great day for me! The weather was my absolute favorite running weather so waking up to that was such a nice way to start the day. I was really proud of controlling the first half of the course because I had heard a lot of stories about going out too hard. My favorite parts of the race were seeing my parents and husband at mile 10 and at the finish line. I also saw Shalane Flanagan right around 10.5 which was so cool!
What's your proudest running moment?
Two races stick out to me the most. The first time I broke 19 in the 5k was really special. I set that goal when I was 15 and never came close. I finally did it when I was 23.The second was last summer I ran a mile race on the track. The same track where my high school PRs were run 7 years earlier. I wanted to break 5:30 and I ended up running 5:22. If it was a 1600, it would have been just a fraction of a second off my PR. Both of these races made me realize I can do so much more in this sport and I don’t have to keep comparing my running to my younger self.
What's next on your race calendar?
I’m hoping to do some local 5ks throughout the summer! The only race I’m signed up for right now is the Philly 10k at the end of August.
What's your "why" when it comes to the daily grind?
My why is honestly because I love it. I love to work hard and see all of that work pay off.
What advice would you like to share with the Get Running team?
A little adds up to a lot! Nothing beats consistency.
You can follow Kara on IG @karaforwood
Heather Devane
Somerville, MA
How did you become a runner?
I started running casually to stay in shape for high school sports (which didn't include XC or track), then continued running recreationally during and after college. I did one 15k in college and ran nearly everyday, but didn't race again until a friend at work convinced me to do a 10k with her in 2016. I had a great time, so registered for a half marathon, then a marathon, and the rest is history!
What does a typical training day look like for you?
I'm an early riser and prefer to get my runs in before work. I like to run along the Charles River and in Cambridge, near where I live. Those routes are pretty flat and good for speed work, and when I have a hill workout, I'll head over toward Tufts University. I try to do some sort of strength routine, whether its core, glutes, and/or arms-focused, at least 3 days a week, and usually do my longer runs on Saturday mornings so I can take a rest day on Sunday.
Tell us about your journey to Boston!
I've run Boston a handful of times, although with one DNF and one virtual race, it's hard to count exactly! The first time I ran, I got a sponsor bib through work and truly thought it would be one and done. I ended up qualifying at that race and have participated in some way, shape, or form since then. After a tough race in October of last year, I didn't think I'd hit the cutoff time – but fortunately the BAA dropped it this year. Training went well except for a few weekend snowstorms that required some long run shuffling, and a month-long bout of tendonitis in my foot that caused me to miss several long runs and workouts. All in all, my goal was to toe the line healthy and have a better race than I did in October, and I was able to check both of those off the list with Katie's help and guidance!
What went well at Boston and what was your favorite part of the race?
There have been several times when I've gone out far too fast on the Boston course and my quads were trashed by mile 20. This year I made a super conscious effort to stay controlled early on, target an even effort, and not worry about what *might* happen a few miles down the line. Even though my pace slowed toward the end, it was more even throughout the race than in years past, and my quads did not bother me at all through the finish. The Wellesley scream tunnel is always a highlight of the course, but being able to really soak in Kenmore Square and Boylston Street this year was really special.
What's your proudest running moment?
Right before Covid, I ran a half marathon in Pinehurst, NC in my build-up to the (later canceled) Boston Marathon. I was coming off an injury and hadn’t really run too much, but ended up finishing first in my age group and fourth female overall. It was the first time I’d placed in a race before, and was a big confidence boost after my injury. Doing a destination race was also a treat :)
What's next on your race calendar?
I’m signed up for the BAA 10k in Boston at the end of June, and then am planning to start training for the New York marathon in November. I was supposed to run New York in 2019, but have had to defer several times due to injury and Covid, so I’m looking forward to finally crossing it off my running bucket list!
What's your "why" when it comes to the daily grind?
I always joke that running keeps me sane, but it’s really true (and I’m sure others can relate!). It helps clear my head in the morning, get my heart pumping, and feel like I’ve accomplished something for the day. I love the peacefulness of a solo run, and the camaraderie of a group run – bonus points if there’s a nice sunrise or cute dogs involved!
What advice would you like to share with the Get Running team?
Trust your training and stay patient. Not every race will be a PR, but every race can be a learning experience! Katie has been instrumental in helping me realize this, and it’s helped my confidence and determination.
You can follow Heather on IG @hdevs
Team Race Recap
Boston
John A - 3:16
Heather C - 3:42
Whit C - 3:42
Jaclyn C - 3:26
Ethan D - 3:02
Todd F - 2:46
Julie H - 2:49
Tracy L - 3:25
Mindy O - 3:30
Danny P - 3:41
Duke P - 3:08
Adam S - 3:08
Katy S - 3:24
Kara F - 3:07, PR
Mariah L - 2:51
Heather D - 3:15, 11min faster than Boston 2021
Adina D - 3:52
Other Marathons
Ashley M - 3:35, PR
Half Marathons
Caitlin K - 1:25
Brieanne S - 1:37
5K
May S - 20:40
Elizabeth H - 17:20, 1st female
Esperanza L - 21:56
Lauren F - 16:40, PR
Yael L - 19:56, first postpartum race!
Brandy S - 27:25
Other
John A (relay) - 6:51avg pace
Joey P (50K trail) - 7:34, 5th female!
Anne H (10mi) - 1:17
Kristin S (15K trail) - 1:41
Kristin S (5mi) - 36:37
Brandy S (HM Relay) - 1:13
Team Announcements
Coach Neely’s book is back in stock on Amazon!
Coach Bridget is launching a strength training app! She’s going to start by just doing her custom strength training on there ($100/mo but Get Running Athletes get 40% off!), but in the next few weeks, there will be a cheaper subscription option ($20/mo). Reach out to her if you’re interested in taking your strength training to the next level! (Bridget@GetRunningCoaching.com)
GRC Team - Mar 2022 Newsletter
Athlete Feature: Caitlin Yul
Atlanta, GA
How did you become a runner?
I slowly progressed from run-walking, to running 2-3 miles at a time in 2013. The 2015 Peachtree Road Race was my first 10k and I knew I wanted to run higher mileage and longer races. In 2016 I joined Team Get Running and I’ve been progressing ever since.
What does a typical training day look like for you?
I go for my long run late Sunday mornings and all other runs happen after work.
You just nailed a PR (Congrats!!) Tell us about your journey to get there.
Thank you! I’m on a quest to run a half marathon in each state and Maryland was #23! The drive to get there and back to Atlanta in a weekend was challenging and that DC traffic was brutal! The mundane, daily details remained the same. Fuel, hydrate, sleep, repeat. I finally had my blood work tested and I started supplementing Iron vitamin D and Magnesium. Each training block has had a different focus and each race has been vastly different. I try to at least get in the mileage each week and if I need to switch days, I will. For this race, I went into it with no expectations or plan. I focused on each mile that I was in and never looked at my overall time.
What's your proudest running moment?
I’m quite proud of this most recent half. So many moving parts have to come together for longer races to succeed and I finally had that opportunity! The weather was cool, I didn’t develop any weird foot injuries or get sick, and I got a solid chunk of high mileage training beforehand. It all came together. I hit my 5k pace twice during the race and was still able to keep going without drastically slowing down.
What's next on your race calendar?
Pittsburgh Half Marathon May 1st! Indianapolis Marathon November 5th!
What's your "why" when it comes to the daily grind?
I don’t struggle often with finding the motivation to get out the door and run, I I simply go after work each day and the time alone helps me clear my mind before heading home. It feels off when I don’t run, as though I’ve missed part of my daily routine, like forgetting to brush my teeth. I do imagine winning a big race one day or even starting in an elite wave. I just want to keep improving and whittling down my times.
What advice would you like to share with the Get Running team?
Progress can be slow, but don’t lose patience! Breakthroughs come when you least expect it. Don’t fall into the comparison trap. Your routine, body, life, etc is all unique, so do what is best for yourself even if it means taking that extra rest day or running your easy miles extra slow.
You can follow Caitlin on IG @caitlinkeepsrunning
Team Race Recap
Marathons
Moncef A - 2:53 at the SoCal Marathon (PR)
Taylor B - 3:40
Heather C - 3:53 at the Woodlands Marathon
Alexis S - 3:29 (PR)
Michael E - 3:29 at the Shamrock Marathon (PR)
Nicole G - 3:39 at the Napa Marathon
Half Marathons
Tracy L - 1:36 at the Woodlands Half
May S - 1:32 at the Woodlands Half
Ali L - 1:34 at the Chambersburg Half
Mike F - 1:29 at the HM Masters Champs
Alli F - 1:43 at the NYC Half
Julie H - 1:21 at the NYC Half
Caitlin Y - 1:42 (PR)
Elizabeth H - 1:22
Heather D - 1:30 (no pain!)
Amanda M - 1:42
Mariah G - 1:18
Other
Lauren F (5K) - 16:52
Nicole S (3mi) - 19:58
Lauren F (Steeplechase) - 11:16 (WON!)
Ashley M (8K) - 35:04
Murray B (11.2mi) - 2:05
Oriana M (5mi) - 37:26
Team Announcements
Team Singlets
We’re in the process of creating some Lululemon singlets that will be available for pre-order. Keep your eyes open for an order form!