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I've been running on an off forever. |
When I was in 8th grade my mom wanted me to burn off some energy so she signed me up for the local track club. Apparently I have always been an endurance junky – I would run lap after lap even after practice was over. |
If I could no longer run, I would row and bike more.
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My favorite run is through my neighborhood -I have a 6 mile loop that always has deer, turkeys (we call them the turkey gang) and some of the best hills in the area.
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I like to run with the YMCA Road Crew – they always push me to go faster.
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Something most people don't know about me is that I am a pilot and used to fly aerobatics in competition (really). Many people in the world have been in an airplane but how many have been in an airplane upside down? Aside from racing, it is the most intense and fun experience that I have ever had. We plan to buy our own aerobatic aircraft in the next year or two so that we can fly for fun and maybe compete again.
My favorite thing to do after a hard workout is eat, shower and then take a nap. |
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When I'm not running I like to row, bike, swim and watch movies (or at least the first half of the movie – until I fall asleep).
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I am inspired by runners of all abilities, paces and age groups. It is awesome to meet up with friends or line up at the start line at any race and feel the positive energy of the group. It is truly empowering! It motivates me to push a little harder during the workout, kick it at the end or just run longer than I thought I ever could. |
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An obstacle or challenge I’ve overcome with my running is when I was working a job at Dupage airport – commuting over an hour each way. I was laid off and found myself overweight and out of work. I focused on rowing and running to help me cope with the stress. I lost some weight, started coaching rowing and competed in my first tri. The rest is history!
The local runner I most admire is Tonya Thayer. She is always so encouraging and positive. Plus anyone that will crawl through a mud bog with you in a race is definitely someone to admire. (Muddy Buddy '08)
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To push myself on a run, I think to myself “it doesn’t get easier you just go faster” (Greg Lemond)
My greatest running accomplishment is being a 2009 Ironman Wisconsin Finisher with a negative split on the marathon. |
My next goal is to qualify for the Boston Marathon 2011.
My advice to other runners is...try rowing, of course! We are lucky to have a wonderful river and very active rowing club at the downtown YMCA. I help coach the Learn to Row classes in the Summer for adults and teens. I am a firm believer in the benefits of cross training, plus rowing is a great total body workout. |
I plan to run until I can’t
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If you'd like to recommend someone to be our next "I'm a Road Runner", send an email to Carol Bingley carol@b2design.com |
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