Runners Spotlight, Let Me Introduce Sara

Today is Runners Spotlight day (Normally on Thursdays, which this week I am actually starting on Wednesday so you can check it out today since you may be busy with your families tomorrow.

This week I'd like to introduce Sara. 

I asked Sara several questions, to tell part of her story and introduce you all to her. 

Sara Blogs at

Run Sara Run

What distances you like to run? 

My favorite is the half marathon. It’s a long race but not to the point of being too long.   

How long have you been running? 

I have been running for seven years. I started running when I was a freshman in high school. 

What made you want to become a runner? What is it that keeps you at it? 

I ran track and cross country throughout high school and loved every minute of it. I started college and stopped running competitively. I ran on my own but not in races. At the time, I was having fun hanging out with friends and doing different activities but one day I realized I wanted something more. I signed up for a few half marathons in the spring and thought up the idea to run 26 half marathons before I turn 26.  

What is the furthest distance or race you have ever run? 

The furthest distance I have run is 20 miles. I am currently training for my first marathon that is on November 17! 

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

My favorite race is the I Ran Marathons May Flowers 13.1. It was freezing cold but I ended up running a PR race of 1:42 and finished as first fastest!  

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

Hmm… well I have only run in one state so I would say anywhere would do! 

Do you run for fun? Or run to compete? Both? 

I run to compete! 

Have you ever won a race or placed in your age group? 

Yes! I have won two half marathons, I won my age group in one half marathon. I just ran in a 20 mile race and won first in my age group.   

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

Thankfully I have not had any serious injuries but in September of this year I struggled with the over training symptom. I am training for my very first marathon so everything is a learning experience. In the middle of training I was cranky, couldn’t sleep well at night, my whole body ached for days, and couldn’t finish my training runs. I finally realized what was going on. I took a weekend off of all exercise, focused on eating more, and felt great ever since.  

Tell me what crossing the finish line feels like to you. 

Crossing the finish line is one of the most exciting feelings for me! It is motivation to keep on going and it is an accomplishment. I put in hours of training into a week for however many months at a time. Crossing the finish line is finally reaching the end and seeing my abilities based on my training.  

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

I have run different half marathons without serious training and my fastest time is 1:42. It’s good but I am hoping to break that 40 barrier.  

  

Tell us about your goal to run Boston, how are you coming on it? 

Running in the Boston marathon is a runners biggest dream- it is my biggest dream! I will run my first marathon on November 17th of this year and have that as a base. From there I will see my time and figure out what I need to do training wise to get to Boston!  

Do you have a funny running story to share?  Or what is the craziest thing that has ever happened to you while out on a run? 

Oh gosh, this is embarrassing and I am sure I should keep it to myself but I am not going to. One time I had to go to the bathroom while on a run but I was too far from home. Let’s just say, I found a nearby park ;)  

When someone asks you why you run, what do you tell them? 

I run because it gives me an outlet, a passion and it is so much fun! 

Do you hope to be a lifelong runner? 

Yes I do! 

What is your dream or biggest goals? 

My dreams include completing my goal of 26 half marathons before I turn 26, running 50 marathons, and I want to become a triathlete. I have a long way to go but I am slowly making my way. 

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

I run alone. With my schedule I don’t think anyone would want to run with me at 5am.  

Have you ever run a relay race? 

No, but I love the idea! 

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

Absolutely! My two favorite songs would be Applause by Lady Gaga and Firework by Katy Perry. 

Tell me what you are most excited for in your upcoming marathon this month?  What inspired you to pick a "Rock and Roll Race Series"? 

I am most excited to finish my first marathon. It will be the end of a long training season but the start of a new beginning for me! I chose this race because it is in my hometown. I also have run a few Rock and Roll half marathons and wanted to complete my first marathon with this series.  

When you're not out on a run, What other hobbies/sports do you do? 

I love all things fitness, which includes swimming, yoga, and cardio classes at the gym. I play flute in the orchestra at my church. I love fashion and shopping. And I like to attempt cooking and baking. I’m not very good but practice makes perfect, right? 

What type of things motivate you and push you towards success? 

Seeing other peoples accomplishments motivate me to keep going. When I see that people are completing marathons or triathlons I realize it isn’t impossible and that I can do it too.  

What is your must have running accessory? 

Anything from Lululemon! 

Favorite pre and post run food? 

Pre run would be apples and a protein shake and post run is a Clif bar with Gatorade.  

Water or Sports drink? 

Sports drink.  

What do you do with your race t-shirts and medals? 

I keep my race t-shirts in my closet but I have a medal rack for all my medals! 

What are your tips to someone who is looking to start running? 

I would say start slow and short. The hardest run is the very first one but after that it gets fun! 

You Can Find Sara Blogging At:

http://runsararun.blogspot.com/

You Can Also Follow Sara Via Twitter