Runner Spotlight - Let Me Introduce Colleen

Today is Spotlight Thursday

This week I'd like to introduce Colleen.
I asked Colleen several questions, to tell part of her story and introduce you all to her 
Colleen Blogs At:
Life Free and Run



What distances do you like to run?

I have run everything from 5k to 26.2.  Half marathons are my favorite to run, but the feeling at the finish line of a 26.2 is my favorite! 
5k is my least favorite because it's so painful...it's a full out sprint for 3 miles!

How long have you been running?

I ran high school cross country, but really got back into running after having my daughter.  We were gifted a BOB and long walks turned into walk/run combos and I was determined to do a 5k, so I used the Couch to 5k app.  I reviewed it on my blog because I really wanted to share it with everyone.  I credit for my success! 

What has been your favorite race and distance you have ever run?  Tell us why?

It would be a tie between Nike Women's Half Marathon DC and Marine Corps Marathon but for completely different reasons.  For Nike I loved the motivation and Girl Power aspect of it and MCM was just so emotional paying homage to Marines who have been wounded or killed in service.  I cried while running that race! 

If you could run any race in the entire world, where would it be and why would you pick it?  

The Kaui Marathon!  I absolutely love that island. 

Do you enjoy running in the spring, summer, fall or winter the best?  

Fall for sure.  The temps are great and the air is dry.  The leaves are gorgeous! 

Have you experienced any trials/injuries/health issues that you have had to overcome?  Tell us about them.  

I had a severe strain in my quad.  It was originally thought to be a stress fracture.  It was hard.  I couldn't run for three months.  I had so much fear in my head that I would lose everything I had worked so hard for and have to started at ground zero again.  Luckily, it came back quickly!
 
Tell me what goes through your mind when you cross a finish line? 

"I am on top of the world!  I can do anything right now!"

Do you have a specific distance and PR that you are proud of?  Tell us about it. 

Running two fulls in 2013!  I never thought I could even run one!

Do you have a funny running story to share?  Or funny experience while running?  

On the course of the Cherry Blossom Ten Miler in DC there was a couple dressed as Ketchup and Mustard cheering on runners with a sign that said, "Runners are beating you, Go Catch Up!"....I yelled to them, "I get it!" and the Mustard yelled back, "Relish the moment!".  I ran a few hundred yards before it really sunk in and I giggled....I got that one a bit late! 

You run as a family, do you find this brings you closer together?  

Absolutely.  I love runs with my family. 

What is your favorite kind of running, solo running or running with a friend or group?  

I like to mix it up.  Usually just me and my tunes, but occasionally I like to run with a friend and chat. 

Do you listen to music while you run?  Give us the top 2 running songs on your playlist.  

"Lucky Strike" by Maroon 5 and "Can't Hold Us" Mackelmore

What is your must have running gadget, or item?  

I love my Garmin 210.  So easy to start and start for stoplights, etc. 

In your spare time What other hobbies or sports do you love do?  

I am a mom, wife,  kindergarten teacher, spin instructor, blogger and health/nutrition is a huge hobby of mine!

Do you have any tips of suggestions for someone who is thinking of starting up running?  

Start small and do it for you.  Don't compare yourself to someone else....comparison is the thief of joy. 

What are a few of your dreams or bucket list items? 

I will definitely run another full marathon and I have added a triathlon to my race schedule.  That scares me!  Especially as someone who isn't a fan of getting their hair wet! 

If you are a race ambassador, give a shout-out to those you represent?  

I am a race ambassador for Zooma Half Marathon series.  I am very excited because I really like women's only races.  I feel like the playing field is evened and they offer so many great things pre and post race! 




You can find Colleen Blogging at:

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livefreeandrun

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