I didn't think I was fast enough or strong enough to run with a group of runners. But the encouragement and warm welcome I received was amazing. I trained until I could keep pace with the group. I began to set running goals. I was determined to increase my speed and endurance. With the tremendous amount of support and coaching I received from other runners, I accomplished goals that I didn't think I would ever reach. By the end of last summer, I ran my best ever. I owe a lot of thanks to the runners who helped me achieve this.

Running allows me to leave my work at the office. It clears my mind and gives me a high. I have a fairly flexible schedule so I can run at various times during the week. When I run, I forget about all those work related items.

There are so many runners I admire for so many reasons. But the runners that I admire most are the runners who don't let a number determine their age.

To push myself on a run I try to do better than my last run. If I find myself fatigued on a run, I set short distance goals within a run. Each goal I reach gets me closer to the finish.

My next goal is to complete the Rock Cut Survivor Trail Run Series Races. Up until a year ago, I was a fair weather runner. That all changed last year when I started running with the Coyotes. No longer does the snow and cold keep me from running. I look forward to running with the pack any time during the year.

My advice to runners is to run hard and run smart. If you suffer an injury, take the time to heal. In most cases the body has the ability to heal itself if given time and proper care. Once healed, run hard and revise your training so as not to injure yourself again.

I plan to run until both my mind and my body won't allow it. Both play an equal part in my determination to keep running.