Runner Spotlights #118

I hope everyone is having a great weekend! I had a super fun time at my race yesterday! I'll recap it for you later this week! :-)

It's time for another runner spotlight...my favorite time of the week! I love reading other runners' stories about their running journey! If you are interested in being spotlighted on my blog please email me at mindy@roadrunnergirl.com! I'd love to spotlight you! You don't have to have a blog to be spotlighted...you just have to be a runner! ;-)

Today I'm spotlighting Amy! Keep reading to learn more about her and her running journey!

Name: Amy Thomas
State: Ohio

When and why did you start running?
I started running about 8 years ago. A friend wanted to sign up for a training program at a local running store and she talked me into going with her. The only time I've not been running the past 8 years was during pregnancies and injuries.

What is your favorite race and race distance?
My favorite race is The Reindeer Romp. It is held in the area where I went to elementary school and the money raised helps to provide toys to kids from my elementary school. I'm a 5k'er. I did a 10k this past May and it was okay.

What is your race day routine?
The day before my race I have to pick up my packet. I can't stand in line doing that the day of the race. I set all of my clothes out the night before and if the run is chip timed the chip is secured to my shoe as well. I eat a banana and yogurt with granola -- right now I'm eating Fage 0% with Honey and Bear Naked Original Granola. I always hit the bathroom multiple times before I leave because I really don't like using the port o lets!

What is your most favorite piece of running gear?
This is tough -- I'm going to have to say it's a tie between my armpocket (holds my keys, road id, and iPhone) as well as the RunKeeper app. I love to see my mileage after I finish the run (or event).

Do you follow any diet or take any specific supplements that complement your running?
Lately, I'm trying to eat healthier and be more aware of my calorie intake. I was focused on this months ago but wasn't seeing any results on the scale. I am participating in several challenges this month (September) in an effort to get back on track.

What do you wish you’d known when you first started running?
I wish I had known how addictive running actually is!

What is your fondest running memory?
My fondest memory is actually a recent one. On August 23rd, my daughter, who is 2 1/2, "ran" her first race - the Little Princess Run as part of the Lady Tutu 5k series. I made matching tutus for us. She got a wand and tiara and practiced running in the house for days before the actual event. I was that mom videoing the entire 70 yard "run." She even has an official race photo. I then walked with both of my kids (the boy is 10mths old) in the double jogger with a friend I hadn't seen in ages -- we had a great time! I want my kids to see that being active is fun and I want to instill this in them early.

What is one thing that most people do not know about you?
That I used to be a parole officer -- everyone is shocked when I tell them!

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?
I'm excited that I'm signed up as a Solemate for Girls on the Run in Cincinnati. I'm running the Queen Bee 4 Miler on October 11th and I'm raising money to provide scholarships for girls in the program. I have coached with Girls on the Run multiple times and I love the program!

Here are all the different ways you can connect with Amy!

Blog: fattymcbutterpant.blogspot.com
Twitter: @AmyThomas186
Facebook: amyg186
Pinterest: amyg186
Instagram: amyg186 

Thank you so much for sharing with us Amy!!!

QOTD: What did you do this weekend?

Runner Spotlights #117

I hope everyone is having a great weekend! My son Sawyer had his state meet for gymnastics last night...he did great! Today we are going to the Space and Rocket Museum. The boys are so excited! :-)

It's time for another runner spotlight...my favorite time of the week! I love reading other runners' stories about their running journey! If you are interested in being spotlighted on my blog please email me at mindy@roadrunnergirl.com! I'd love to spotlight you! You don't have to have a blog to be spotlighted...you just have to be a runner! ;-)

Today I'm spotlighting Nikki from Will Run for Pizza! You know how I feel about my pizza so I really think Nikki and I are destined to be besties! ;-) Keep reading to learn more about her and her running journey!

Name: Nikki Gilson
State: O-H!

When and why did you start running? 

I initially started running when I was about 13 years old – just for fun & to lose weight. Running was up and down for me during my 20’s, but going into my 30’s, it has been a consistent staple.

What is your favorite race and race distance? 

So far, Cap City half in Columbus, OH is my favorite race. The crowd and energy is amazing. And I LOVE the half marathon distance! I’m doing my first full marathon in October, but even through all these long training runs, I know the half marathon will continue to be my fave.

What is your race day routine? 

TRY to get some shut-eye the night before…wake up about 2 hours before I need to leave…drink 2 glasses of water…make an egg, cheese and fake sausage biscuit…eat my breakfast and drink 1 cup of coffee…go to the bathroom about 4 times…do some yoga moves to stretch out…double check that I have all my stuff…and leave!

What is your most favorite piece of running gear? 

Oh gosh. I’d have to say my Garmin and compression socks. They are fun, cute, and extremely purposeful!

Do you follow any diet or take any specific supplements that complement your running? 

I’m not very strict, but I just try to eat healthy. Ya know, lots-o fruits and veggies, 16+ glasses of water a day, keep meat-eating to a minimum, and consume lots-o pizza. J I notice when I eat crappy, I run crappy. Eat healthy, run healthy. I take a multi-vitamin, zinc, and cayenne, but I don’t notice that they complement my running…just my life. :-)

What do you wish you’d known when you first started running? 

How to choose running shoes, using insoles, and the power of cross-training, strength training, and stretching! Actually, I wish I had known a whole lot when I first started running!

What is your fondest running memory? 

Hmmm, I would have to say the training runs with my friend, Rachel, leading up to my very first half marathon. I had never run with anyone before, and had never done a race before, so it was a whole new playground for me. I LOVED our Saturday morning runs and then running the race with her!

What is one thing that most people do not know about you? 

I went to such a small, private school, that we didn’t even have track or cross-country. We had volleyball, soccer, basketball, and cheerleading. I ran for fun, alone – but never for a team/school sport or with any coaching.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us? 

I like pizza. It makes a great pre-run meal, AND a great post-run meal. ;) But most of you might already know that. :)

Here are all the different ways you can connect with Nikki!

Blog: http://willrunforpizza.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nikki_Gilson7

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/willrunforpizza.7

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/nicolegilson/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/willrun4pizza

Thanks so much for sharing with us Nikki!

QOTD: Does it feel like spring where you live?

Runner Spotlights #116

I hope everyone has had a great weekend thus far! I'm enjoying being at home with my family since I've been out of town the past 3 weekends!

It's been a while since I've done a runner spotlight! I'm hoping to start these back up because I always find it so inspiring to read other people's running stories. If you are interested in being spotlighted on my blog please email me at mindy@roadrunnergirl.com! I'd love to spotlight you! You don't have to have a blog to be spotlighted...you just have to be a runner! ;-)

Today I'm spotlighting Katie from Katie Lean! She's a college student majoring in nutrition. She loves to run and do yoga too. Keep reading to learn more about Katie and her running journey!

Name: Katie Lienhard

State: Massachusetts

When and why did you start running?

My dad has been running road races for as long as I can remember.  I always played on lots of sports teams but when I was about twelve I ran my first 5k (with my dad), and from then on I was hooked on racing!

What is your favorite race and race distance?

I think my favorite race is any one that I’m running with friends and/or family.  It’s so hard to choose a specific course, but my favorite distance (so far) is the 5k.  I love the excitement of a quick race!

What is your race day routine?

Preparing for any race really starts the week of!  I stay well hydrated and get plenty of sleep in the days leading up to it.  I try not to change up my diet beforehand because I believe that if it’s worked during training it’ll work for the race!  One thing I always make sure of is that I eat a couple of hours before start time; no one likes the feeling of a meal in their stomach while they’re running.  I've also had troubles with asthma in the past, so I make sure to stay calm and control my breathing even before the race starts.  And I've got to have my lucky socks on, of course!

What is your most favorite piece of running gear?

My favorite piece of running gear is my sneakers (I know, boring right?).  I've been using the same model (Asics GEL-Cumulus) for years and I just buy the newest version and color when I need them.  They’re always special to me because I wear them for so many miles!  There’s a crazy amount of memories and emotions in a pair of running shoes.

Do you follow any diet or take any specific supplements that complement your running?

I’m a vegetarian, but it’s just because I stopped like the taste of most animal products, not necessarily to complement my running (although I feel it doesn't hurt).  Because of that, I’m really careful about making sure I get enough protein, iron, vitamin B12, calcium, and vitamin D, among other things.  I take a B12 supplement and sometimes use protein powder in my smoothies after a long workout!

What do you wish you’d known when you first started running?

I wish I had known how much you have to push yourself to get as fast as you can be.  If I had known that earlier I feel like I would have been much faster at a younger age.  I believe that learning to test your limits is one of the most important lessons any runner can learn.

What is your fondest running memory?

It would probably be one of my races during high school cross-country.  We were up against one of our rival teams on our home course.  Starting one third of the way through I had a girl from the other team RIGHT behind me.  For about three quarters of a mile she stayed on my tail and it felt like I was getting chased through the woods.  The race came out onto a field where my coach was and she told me I HAD to beat this girl.  I ran harder than I've ever run before!  I think I finished second in the race, and we beat the other team for the first time in years.  The girl and I shook hands near the finish line because we had really challenged each other.  It was an amazing day!

What is one thing that most people do not know about you?

Most people don’t know that I've competed in a lot of other sports besides cross-country.  I was on varsity lacrosse and soccer teams.  I've played basketball, taken tennis lessons, played in a few field hockey games, and I do a lot of yoga and other group fitness classes.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?
I’m a college student majoring in nutrition, so if anyone ever wants to chat about health or fitness with me check out my blog and/or social media! I especially love talking to other runners and athletes about nutrition.

Here are all the different ways you can connect with Katie!

Blog: http://www.katielean.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/ktlienhard

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/katieleanblog

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/ktlienhard/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/ktlienhard

Thanks so much for sharing with us Katie!!!

QOTD: What did you do this weekend? Did anyone race?

Runner Spotlights #115

Yesterday was Sawyer's first gymnastics competition and he did awesome! I can't wait to share more with you this week! Hope you are all having a great weekend!

It's time for another runner spotlight...my favorite time of the week! I love reading other runners' stories about their running journey! If you are interested in being spotlighted on my blog please email me at mindy@roadrunnergirl.com! I'd love to spotlight you! You don't have to have a blog to be spotlighted...you just have to be a runner! ;-) And I'm running low on spotlights so now's your time to shine!!!

Today I'm spotlighting Jackie from Run Jackie Run! Keep reading to learn more about her and her running journey!

Name: Jackie
State: NYC

When and why did you start running?
I started running again about two months ago, so I’m still very new to the community! Love it so far, though.

What is your favorite race and race distance?
5k, definitely – it looks and feels manageable for me as a beginner, and I imagine it’s drawn in many beginner runners before me.

What is your race day routine?
Don’t have one yet – running my first race October 25!

What is your most favorite piece of running gear?
My Runkeeper app. It’s free and SUPER useful for finding out how far, how fast, and how much you’ve been running. This will come in handy more and more as I increase distance and begin concerning myself with PR. 

Do you follow any diet or take any specific supplements that complement your running?
No, not really. I track everything I eat on My Fitness Pal and try to stay on or below 1800 calories. Where those calories come from doesn’t matter much for me, but I try to keep it healthy. As for supplements, I take one vitamin, One A Day Women’s, every morning to help with my low energy and mild anemia.

What do you wish you’d known when you first started running?
How kind and wonderful the running community is! The people are so encouraging and non-judgmental, I should never have been afraid to reach out to them.

What is your fondest running memory?
Today, when I ran/walked 2.5 miles for the first time after a week long hiatus. Knowing I could push through and be strong, even after going through a horrible experience the previous week, was a great moment for me.

What is one thing that most people do not know about you?
I’m an avid reader and super nerd. I was originally going to be a History professor, but now I’m looking to going into social work, a world away from athletics!

Here are all the different ways you can connect with Jackie!

Blog: runjackierun.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/runjackierun92
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/runjackierun92

Thanks so much for sharing with us Jackie!

QOTD: Who has all their Christmas shopping done?

Runner Spotlights #114

I hope everyone is having a great weekend! Mine has been good so far...although a little bittersweet since yesterday I would have been running the St. Jude Memphis Half Marathon. I did get to run 4 miles for the kids at St. Jude here at home. And that's the longest run I've done since my calf strain injury! I ran it with zero calf pain...yay!

It's time for another runner spotlight...my favorite time of the week! I love reading other runners' stories about their running journey! If you are interested in being spotlighted on my blog please email me at mindy@roadrunnergirl.com! I'd love to spotlight you! You don't have to have a blog to be spotlighted...you just have to be a runner! ;-) And I'm running low on spotlights so now's your time to shine!!!

Today I'm spotlighting Zoe! She is my youngest runner spotlight ever! She's 10 years old!!! And what an inspiration she is! She not only runs but she runs for charity! Keep reading to learn more about her and her amazing running journey!

Name: Zoe Snethen

State: OK

When and why did you start running? 

1 year ago and I started running with my dad .

What is your favorite race and race distance? 

3 miles and BooBoo Dash because I won 3rd place.

What is your race day routine? 

My dad and I put all my stuff out the night before and we go over how the races will work and what parts will be the hardest.

What is your most favorite piece of running gear? 

My shoes because without them it would be hard to run.

What do you wish you’d known when you first started running? 

How to not whine. Once I stopped whining I learned I could go a lot further if I was positive. Also I get to have alone time with my mom and dad this way. I have a younger brother and sister so I like that I get to do this alone.

What is your fondest running memory? 

Running a 5k with my mom. We did the BooBoo Dash together as my first 5k. I was one of the youngest kids running the race.

What is one thing that most people do not know about you? 

I have completed in two triathlons, one I did with my younger sister. I decreased my overall time by 5 minutes on my second one!

Is there anything else you would like to share with us? 

I am training to do a 10k and raising funds for Kellsie's Hope Foundation to helping children battling cancer. I'm excited that my running can make a difference in another kids life.

If you'd like to donate here is Zoe's fundraising website: http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/kristen-snethen/star-wars-half-marathon-weekend

Thank you so much for sharing with us Zoe!!! Good luck at the Star Wars 10K!!!!

QOTD: Did anyone race this weekend?

Runner Spotlights #113

Happy weekend everyone! Is anyone else already in the Christmas spirit? I guess the cold weather has made it feel like Christmas around here for me! I'm already listening to Christmas music...and I usually have a rule of no Christmas until after Thanksgiving. I'm obviously breaking that rule this year!

It's time for another runner spotlight...my favorite time of the week! I love reading other runners' stories about their running journey! If you are interested in being spotlighted on my blog please email me at mindy@roadrunnergirl.com! I'd love to spotlight you! You don't have to have a blog to be spotlighted...you just have to be a runner! ;-) And I'm running low on spotlights so now's your time to shine!!!

Today I'm spotlighting Ariana from Happy Life Healthy Life! Ariana lives in British Columbia, Canada! Keep reading to learn more about her and her running journey!

Name: Ariana Fotinakis

State: British Columbia, Canada!

When and why did you start running?

I started running in 2010 when I lived in the Yukon. I had a lot of area I wanted to explore and not a lot of free time, so running seemed like the most efficient way to do it! It didn’t take long before I realized how much I loved running.

What is your favorite race and race distance?

My favourite distance is the half marathon and my favourite race would be Lululemon’s SeaWheeze Half Marathon – it’s so much more than just a race! It’s a weekend party filled with yoga, limited edition Lululemon gear, awesome post-race swag, and tons of things to keep you entertained along the race course.

What is your race day routine?

My race day routine begins the night before a race. I drink as much water as humanly possible, get all my clothes and gear laid out, and of course have the much-anticipated pre-race dinner…lately I’ve been big on steak and potatoes. Weird, I know.

Morning of I chug water until two hours before the race then stop until I’m on the course – eliminates the need for bathroom breaks! I eat breakfast about two hours before, listen to some good music, and get my body prepared for the awesomeness that’s about to ensue.

What is your most favorite piece of running gear?

My fuel belt! I’m a hoarder when I run and I bring a ton of stuff. My Nathan belt holds everything and doesn’t bounce around when I run.

Do you follow any diet or take any specific supplements that complement your running?

I follow the “food that makes you feel good” diet. It’s based primarily on whole, nutrient-dense foods that enhance performance and promote recovery, but it also includes things like frozen yogurt, dark chocolate, and nut butter. Lots and lots of nut butter. I’m more of a “fats” girl than a “carbs” girls.

What do you wish you’d known when you first started running?

I’m not indestructible! I have boasted in the past about how indestructible I am, having gone X number of years without any injuries from all the activities I participate in. Karma got me and I’ve been dealing with ITBS since July 2013. But there’s hope on the horizon and I’m positive I’m going to beat this thing once and for all.

What is your fondest running memory?

Running my first half marathon, the BMO Vancouver Half Marathon. There was such a mixture of emotions – I was so nervous I was shaking as I waited by myself at the starting line, I was elated at the time I was making, I had to hold back tears as I watched a blind man be led by his friend through the course, and I felt like I was going to puke a couple of times. It was awesome.

What is one thing that most people do not know about you?

I’m actually quite shy and introverted! I try to make this known so people don’t think I’m just being rude, but I think sometimes I give off the impression that I’m outgoing because I’m so open on my blog and on social media. Working as a Personal Trainer by day and at the front desk in a hotel at night I always have to be “on”, so when I do get my downtime I like to stay at home and be quiet.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

I spent a lot of years trying to hide who I was by trying to be something different; I went through my gangsta rap phase, my “life is abysmal” emo phase, my tree-hugging hippie phase, and my party girl phase. It took a long time to accept me for me – a kinda weird, kinda awkward girl who likes to eat, run, and get sweaty. And occasionally listen to gangsta rap.

But it’s totally liberating! Just DO YOU and enjoy life.

Here are all the different ways you can connect with Ariana!

Blog: http://happylifehealthylife.com/

Twitter: @ariiana_f

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/evolutionbyariana

Instagram: @ariianaf

Thanks so much for sharing with us Ariana!!!

QOTD: What did you do this weekend?

Runner Spotlights #112

Brrr! I have been freezing all weekend! This Gulf Coast girl is NOT used to this cold weather lol! I have been enjoying running in the cold though. ;-)

It's time for another runner spotlight...my favorite time of the week! I love reading other runners' stories about their running journey! If you are interested in being spotlighted on my blog please email me at mindy@roadrunnergirl.com! I'd love to spotlight you! You don't have to have a blog to be spotlighted...you just have to be a runner! ;-) And I'm running low on spotlights so now's your time to shine!!!

Today I'm spotlighting Rachel from Running on Happy! Don't you just love her blog name? Keep reading to learn more about her and her running journey!

Name: Rachel

State: Ohio

When and why did you start running?

I had a very brief running career at the end of middle school and early in high school, but I was so slow and unmotivated that it is hardly a blip in time. I didn’t run again until after my first child was born. I had a lot of trouble losing pregnancy weight and finally I realized I had to do something other than sit around and go for “walks.” I took up running in 2010 and I will never look back.

What is your favorite race and race distance?

It turns out I really enjoy the 5K. I like to get runs done, and I like to try to go fast. Plus I feel like with every 5K, a new PR is almost always possible. One of my very favorite races is a small race near where I grew up, on the east side of Cleveland, Ohio. It’s small, I love the hilly course, and I feel a great sense of accomplishment every time I run. I also have a soft spot for it because it was my first official race. :-)

What is your race day routine?

I don’t really have one! If it’s a 5K, I just wake up, get dressed, and get to the race. I’m training for my second half marathon right now. My first half I didn’t really do anything special. Just had to wake up at the crack of dawn to get to the race on time. I’m not one of those people that wake up super early to eat because my stomach can’t really handle food pre-run. If I need to fuel, I do it on the course. But I usually fuel enough the night before that I’m good for the duration.

What is your most favorite piece of running gear?

I’m a big fan of my shoes. I know that’s such a weird thing to say. But without them, I wouldn’t be running at all, so yep – I love my shoes. :-)

Do you follow any diet or take any specific supplements that complement your running?

No way. I just follow a healthy, balanced diet. I avoid process foods for the most part unless I’m in a pinch. I try to minimize sugar intake, but with a sweet tooth that’s hard to manage at times. :-)

What do you wish you’d known when you first started running?

I wish I had known how addictive it would be. I heard about it, but you don’t really know until you’re in it. And once you’re a runner… well, that’s all she wrote!

What is your fondest running memory?

I’m part of a mileage challenge group on Facebook. We are spread out across the country. After being part of the group for two years now, I finally had the opportunity to meet some of the people in the group back in March at a race in Louisville, KY. It was really awesome to meet face to face. I’m thankful for the camaraderie and now it’s even better to have voices with the names and profile pictures.

What is one thing that most people do not know about you?

I’m planning on getting my JD in a year or two. 

Here are all the different ways you can connect with Rachel!

Blog: http://www.runningonhappy.com

Twitter: http://twitter.com/running_onhappy

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/runningonhappy

Thanks so much for sharing with us Rachel!

QOTD: Did anyone race this weekend? Tell me about it!

Runner Spotlights #111

Hey everyone! I hope you are all having a great weekend! I'm freezing again this weekend on the Gulf Coast but it's been a good weekend despite the cold weather!

It's time for another runner spotlight...my favorite time of the week! I love reading other runners' stories about their running journey! If you are interested in being spotlighted on my blog please email me at mindy@roadrunnergirl.com! I'd love to spotlight you! You don't have to have a blog to be spotlighted...you just have to be a runner! ;-) And I'm running low on spotlights so now's your time to shine!!!

Today I'm spotlighting Kerry from Dare to Be! She hates to be called an inspiration but she truly is! She is a wheelchair athlete with an amazing story! Keep reading to learn more about her and her running journey!

Name: Kerry Kingdon
State: California

When and why did you start running? 
I started running (well, walking..) back in 2005. I signed up with Train To End Stroke (now Start Training) with the Heart & Stroke Association to train for a half marathon in reaction to my doctor promising me a knee replacement someday and that I had to think of it as I had limited miles on my knee after my second knee surgery a year before. Working with the Heart & Stroke Association turned my reaction into using those miles for something good rather than just my own stubbornness. For the next 8 years, I went through many ups and downs, and eventually turned into a Vibram-wearing ultra runner (managed to get in a 50K a few months before my leg was done). I wasn't supposed to be able to finish my first half, I did 13!
At the end of 2012, my leg finally gave up and I was told the best thing I could do was stop running. At my running community friends’ encouragement, I decided to go with my crazy idea of wheelchair racing.. being active had become so much a part of me that I didn't want to give it up. I've been in the wheelchair for about a year and half now. My first half was the Dumbo Double Dare in Disneyland in 2013, and my first full ever was the Dopey Challenge in Disney World in 2014!

What is your favorite race and race distance? 
For distance, on foot it was the half, mostly because I was told I couldn't; I’m still trying to figure out my distance in the wheelchair.. it’ll come with more experience, right now I just enjoy still being able to be out there. I don’t really have a favorite race, but the only ones I have done more than once are Surf City in Huntington Beach and the Disney races.

What is your race day routine? 
I’m a fly-by-the-seat-of-my-pants kind of runner… I eat my breakfast, throw on the clothes I laid out the night before, head to the start, and see what happens from there! It is a bit more fun with the wheelchairs now since the races are either prepared with wheelchair storage/plans or have no idea what to do.

What is your most favorite piece of running gear? 
Right now, it’s my Dopey BondiBand. I went into Dopey not entirely prepared due to some personal issues and I found the headband at the expo.. it became my magic feather for the races and is still my first choice to wear under my helmet.

Do you follow any diet or take any specific supplements that complement your running? 
I grew up in a junk food family, but when I started getting active, my diet started getting healthier and healthier. Now, because of that and some allergies (most specifically milk), I follow a mostly vegan and/or unprocessed diet. I also add in protein powder because I just don’t get much; between the problems with my legs and building up my upper body, I feel protein is too important to miss out on.

What do you wish you’d known when you first started running? 
Simply that it was all going to be okay. I worried so much about what I could and could not do and how far my legs would take me. Fortunately I’m determined and stubborn so at least it didn't stop me.

What is your fondest running memory? 
Still working with the Heart Association, I love watching people I've helped coach, people who thought they’d never finish a half, make it across the finish line. I love training or going to races with friends. I enjoy making signs when I go to a race to cheer and seeing faces brighten up, or being thanked for being out there. My first 5K and race in a wheelchair, my friend ran with me the whole way.. then the next day (at my last half on foot) after she finished her half, she texted me almost non-stop and even found a couple places for me to see her near the end just to make sure I finished. Making new friends at each race, especially now in the wheelchair since that community is rather small. I think most of all, my community of running friends circling around me when I could no longer run, asking what I was going to do instead and how they could help.

What is one thing that most people do not know about you? 
I don’t really like to be called an inspiration, but I’m okay with it because if my being out there on the trail, road, water, whatever is going to get someone to try something new or something they didn't think they could do, I’m all for it!

Is there anything else you would like to share with us? 
If you are one of those people wondering if it will work out if you try that one thing you really want to do, just go do it! Look into what it will take to get you out there and go… at least have the experience to talk about!

Here are all the different ways you can connect with Kerry!

Blog: http://18yearjourney.blogspot.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kerry.kingdon
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/somethingad/

Be sure to check out Kerry's store too!

Thanks so much for sharing with us Kerry!!!

QOTD: What is the weather like where you live this weekend? Cold? 

Runner Spotlights #110

I hope everyone has had a great weekend so far! Ours has been busy with Halloween festivites and birthday celebrations! It's been fun!

It's time for another runner spotlight...my favorite time of the week! I love reading other runners' stories about their running journey! If you are interested in being spotlighted on my blog please email me at mindy@roadrunnergirl.com! I'd love to spotlight you! You don't have to have a blog to be spotlighted...you just have to be a runner! ;-) And I'm running low on spotlights so now's your time to shine!!!

Today I'm spotlighting Kelly from Red Head On the Run! She is a busy momma of 3 who manages to run AND blog! Keep reading to learn more about her and her running journey!

Name: Kelly Anderson

State: Texas

When and why did you start running? 

I started running 8 years ago after being a self proclaimed anti-runner.

​I h​

​ated

anything and everything to do with running and was convinced I'd never become a runner. I had gained a little....ok a lot...of weight during my first pregnancy so running for me began as a means to lose some weight. I was amazed that once I reached that 5k goal that all beginning runners strive for, I really began to love the sport. I was as shocked as anyone. It changed something in me. I was doing something that I loved, made me feel good,

​and was good for me. It was a win win.

What is your favorite race and race distance? 

My favorite race and distance are actually two different things. My favorite race has been Hood to Coast. It's a 200 mile relay from Mt. Hood in Oregon to a little beach town called Seaside. I was able to do this race with my husband and several good friends. It was an amazing way to see some beautiful scenery, push past my limits and have fun doing it. I'm a mountain girl living in Texas so this race was me through and through. ​My favorite distance is the half-marathon. I'm currently training for my second full marathon this year and as much as I love the challenge of distance, I miss my speed a little. I feel like the half is the perfect combination of challenge with some distance but it also allows you to really push your pace. I know I can challenge myself and race faster in a half. It's fun and it's still a huge accomplishment...and I can walk up and down stairs the next day.

What is your race day routine? 

I'm a VERY routine runner. I'm kinda crazy about everything being just right on race day. I get up and take a shower right away. Nice and hot. It warms me up, helps me feel lose and helps me shake off that early morning stiffness. I have 1 cup(on any other given day I'll drink at least 3..or 10 cups) of coffee and a bagel with peanut butter and honey and greek yogurt with chia seeds. I have all my gear laid out the night before so I get dressed and head out. I like to get to the starting line with plenty of time so I'm not adding extra nerves about being late! 

What is your most favorite piece of running gear?

Without a doubt my Garmin. It's an attachment of my arm. I have no idea how I was physically able to run before I got it. It's a miracle I survived.

Do you follow any diet or take any specific supplements that complement your running?

I'm a moderation girl. I'm also a lover of all food. That said, I don't follow a strict diet. I try to limit sugar and the no good carbs but don't deny myself anything permanently. Life's too short. I love to train hard and I know that comes with good solid nutrition. I'm really good and disciplined during the week, then allow myself a splurge or two on the weekends. This keeps me from feeling deprived all the time but keeps me accountable to a solid nutrition plan...for the most part. As for supplements I'm a big fan of Generation UCAN and Honey stingers. Those are my go to's that I don't race without.

What do you wish you’d known when you first started running? 

I wish someone had told me the benefits of training on a track. It's something I'm incorporating into my training for the first time this fall. I always see fast efficient runners training on tracks and wish I had started this sooner.

What is your fondest running memory? 

My favorite running memory was from Hood to Coast 2014. This race was a couple of weeks ago but I had a 10k PR at 3am running through the Oregon wilderness. It was by far the coolest running moment of my life and something I will never forget. ​I was running in the middle of the night, alone and with nothing but the sounds around me. Looking up through the trees all you could see were stars. We don't see that in Dallas so it was something really special. Plus I ran faster than I have in a long time and it was a great place to do it. Without a doubt a rockin experience that I would recommend to any and all people...everywhere. It was that cool.

What is one thing that most people do not know about you? 

Most people don't know that I am a horse girl at heart. I grew up riding and showing horses competitively and taught therapeutic horsemanship after college. It was my outlet. It was very much a passion that I feel was replaced with running and racing as my life changed and I got older. I miss it, but my competitive drive is fed with racing even if just racing myself and my last time. It's a thrill and I love it. 

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

I'm married to my high school sweetheart. He's a finance guy who is also an athlete who races and competes in running and triathlon. We have 3 kids(Jake: 8, Josh: almost 6, and Lila: 2). I'm in the process of studying to become a personal trainer and recently started a blog..which are two things I never thought I would do. Ever. I am being pushed beyond my comfortable in the very best of ways and hope to encourage others to be brave and shoot for their goals.   

  

Here are all the different ways you can connect with Kelly!

Blog: http://redheadontherun1.blogspot.com

Twitter: @redheadonrun

Facebook: Redheadontherun

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/redheadonrun

Instagram: @redheadontherun_1

Thanks so much for sharing with us Kelly!

QOTD: What did you do on Halloween? Were you tempted by all the candy?