1. How long have you been running and why did you start running?
Since 2003, starting with a club at my high school in Lebanon, Ohio. I started running to find a sport I enjoyed doing. Running for me always feels freeing, and I enjoyed that rush as soon as I started, and fell in love even more when I was able to push the limits to see what my body is capable of. Running also is a great outlet to get away and learn about myself.
2. How long have you been part of TRL, and what drew you to the club in the first place?
Since late September-August. Coach Rick and I both happened to park at the Science Center for the Eugene Half Marathon in April, and fell into conversation. I got to meet Chelsea and started to meet more of the team later, as I learned more about competitions with the team. TRL drew me in based on the fun, energetic, welcoming atmosphere, and common group goal of racing and competing and training while having fun.
3. What do you do when you’re not running (job, family, school…whatever it is you’d use to introduce yourself outside of running)?
A majority of my time outside of running is spent managing a team and working at hospitals across Oregon and Washington in the field of neurophysiology. I live in Eugene currently, and have a cat named Ghost who is 2 years old. Outside of running I like to workout at Orange Theory, travel, listen to music, read, draw, and spend time with my cat.
4. What’s your favorite distance/type of run (5K, half-marathon, marathon, ultras, relays, track, trail, etc.)?
Racing a cross-country 6k, but I also am now loving half marathons, too. I also love a good long run.
5. Where is your favorite place to run in the greater Portland area?
I have not had any opportunities to run in the greater Portland area aside from the Stumptown XC series. I enjoyed racing the most at Fernhill.
6. What’s your most memorable running experience (or experiences)?
In college, I ran for the University of Toledo. We were racing an indoor 5000 at the Iowa Classic. I was so unsure of myself prior to the race, but I ended up running 16:04. It was a fun moment and shocking to be surprised by what I can do. I also really enjoyed winning the team MAC cross-country titles and individual titles during cross-country season at Toledo.
7. What’s the best running advice you’ve ever received?
Take your easy days easy.
8. Tell us one fun fact, hidden talent, or something we don’t know about you, but should?
I have an identical-twin sister.