Runner Spotlight, Let Me Introduce Ange

Today is Spotlight Thursday

This week I'd like to introduce Ange. 

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

Ange Blogs At:

Cowgirl Runs

Tell us what distances you like to run?

For training runs, I love running a 10k. It's long enough that I feel like I've gotten a great workout in, but short enough that I'm able to fit it in after work and still have some time left in the evenings to relax.

For racing, the half marathon is my favourite. I'm decidedly not a sprinter, so I feel the half plays to my distance abilities, but it's not too long - running for 2 hours feels just about right!

How long have you been running?  Or at what age did you start running?

I ran my first race at 17 with my dad. I can't say I necessarily trained for it, but he was running it and somehow convinced me to come along. Well, I knew NOTHING about pacing myself, so I'd end up running hard and then walking tons. I can't recall my time for that race, but I know when I ran it again at 18 I finished in around 58 minutes and placed third (I believe) in my age group. Obviously it was a small field :)

I really started training for races at 27 when I decided to train for my first half marathon in 2010. I've really only been a "runner" for three years, but I absolutely plan on keeping it up!

You've run a lot of half marathons in the past few years. What is it that keeps you at it?

I love challenging myself and I love running new races. I truly enjoy the training process as running gets me outside (when it's not snowing or freezing!) and it's where I do my best problem solving.

You just ran your first marathon in October, what were your favorite moments of it?

There was a moment around the 6km mark of the marathon where it hit me I'm running a marathon and then I told myself to calm down because I still had a looooong way to go. I dealt with a really challenging cramping issue throughout the race, so while I was thrilled to finish, I was also just looking forward to be DONE because it hurt so much.

Can you see yourself running another full marathon? 

Absolutely! I actually just signed up for a 50k Ultra that I'll be running on June 1, 2014. My original goal was to run the Calgary Marathon and see if I could break 4 hours, but when I was looking at the site I realized they were offering a 50k Ultra as part of their 50 year anniversary celebrations and I couldn't pass up the chance to run an ultra! It's true, runners really ARE crazy! 

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

Without a doubt, the SeaWheeze half marathon in 2013. This was the race that got me back into running after a few lackluster years. I followed my training plan well, the scenery in Vancouver was amazing and the race was really well organized. Getting a PR also didn't hurt! :)

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

Oh man, this is really tough. I'd say my top 3 big travel marathons to run would be: NYC, London and Berlin. I keep having to stop myself from thinking too much about races because I always end up with a list a mile long!

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

I run because I like to challenge myself and see what I can accomplish. I'm no where near fast enough to compete for age group placings, so I run for fitness and to challenge myself.

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

No - but that's not why I run :)

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

Thankfully I've been pretty healthy through most of my time running. A few years ago I had some issues with shin splints, but thankfully I have an amazing chiropractor who fit me for custom orthotics and fixed that right up!
Right now I'm recovering from a sinus infection and haven't ran since the Wednesday before American Thanksgiving (it's now December 13). I'm trying not to get too down about it, I really want to run, but I can tell my body isn't yet at a place where it would be able to handle much more than walking to and from work.

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

It's amazing! I almost always shed a few tears when I cross because it's tangible proof that I accomplished what I set out to do.

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

I was really happy with my SeaWheeze PR. I'd experienced some personal trials leading up to the race and seeing that I was able to have a good time and PR made me really really happy.

Have you ever ran a race in costume?  Would you?  

No, but I will be wearing a tutu for the Glass Slipper Challenge races in Feb!

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

It's my therapy.

Have you run races in any other countries?

Not yet, but when I run Glass Slipper Challenge, I'll be running at Walt Disney World, so it'll be my first race in the US.

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

I mainly run by myself, but I would absolutely LOVE to find a running buddy in Calgary :)

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

I only recently started listening to music on my runs and my top two songs are:
Katy Perry - ROAR

Avicii - Wake Me Up

Do you cross train?  What types?

Not as much as I should :)
I love the Greatist WOD (greatist.com) as they're mainly functional exercises that can be completed in 30-40 minutes

Being from Canada you likely get your fair share of cold temps.  Do you run indoors in the winter or outdoors?

If so, whats one of your best winter running tips.

I'm a bit of a wimp when it comes to running in the cold, so I'm forcing myself to run on the treadmill when it's too cold or snowy to run outside. Unfortunately Calgary is forecast to have the coldest and snowiest winter in 20 years, so I think I'll have to learn to love the treadmill.

I have two posts for running in the cold and dark:
http://cowgirlruns.com/2013/11/28/running-in-the-cold/
http://cowgirlruns.com/2013/11/21/running-in-the-dark/

For myself, I try to run outside until it hits about -15C (5F) so long as the pathways are clear. We had a really bad blizzard here (an actual blizzard!) at the beginning of December and we currently have a TON of snow still. I slip and slide on my way to work, so I think I'll be making friends with the treadmill once I'm feeling well enough to start running again.

What other hobbies/sports do you do besides running?

I love yoga, but don't do it nearly enough!

A non sport hobby is photography. I'm not the best photographer (as you can tell from my iPhone photos on my blog) but when I pick up my big girl camera I'm pretty decent!

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

I really like challenging myself. A lot of times I do things just to see if I can. Signing up for the 50k is a bit scary, but I know through training I'll be able to complete it and that's crazy and amazing!

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

Do it. Don't worry about how far or how fast you can run at this point in time. Just do it. Pick a training plan (like Couch to 5k) and follow it. You'll be amazed at your improvement and soon you'll be doing something you never thought you were capable of doing.
And make sure you get fitted for shoes! 

What is your must have running accessory?

A good pair of shoes! and a smile :)

What is the best thing you have learned from being a runner?

To push through it. Running has made me mentally stronger, so many times on a run my brain tells me to stop, but I push through and I'm able to push past that limit.

Water or Sports drink?

Water!
I rehydrate with Vega Recovery Accelerator and coconut water after a long run, but other than that, I stick with water.

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

I'd really really LOVE to quality for Boston at some point. I'm not sure if that's a reasonable possibility for me or not, but it's something that would be really awesome to say I was able to qualify.

Tell us something unique about you.

I'm a huge dork and I'm totally okay with it. I have dance parties with my cat (even he things I'm a weirdo) but I don't mind. If it makes me smile and doesn't hurt anyone, I'm okay with it :)

  

You can find Ange blogging at

http://cowgirlruns.com/

She's also on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/cowgirlruns

And Twitter @cowgirlruns 

https://twitter.com/cowgirlruns

Runners Spotlight, Let Me Introduce Baz

Today is Spotlight Thursday

This week I'd like to introduce Baz. 

I asked Baz several questions, to tell part of his story and introduce you all to him. 

Baz Blogs at

Fearless Feet

What distances you like to run?

I am slowly getting into running long distances. I will have run my first ultra by time this is read and will look to do more marathons and ultras in the future. I do still have a desire to run a 40 minute 10k so will work on that over winter.

How long have you been running?

I was a reasonably good secondary school runner and ran at district level but became very on and off once I left school. I ran the London marathon in 2005 for charity but didn't train properly. I have been running seriously since March 2012.

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

I have always had an interest in keeping fit and have had various stints at joining a gym and then giving it up again. Between September 2011 and February 2012 I had 3 lifelong friends pass away which was a real blow and made me realize all the time I had wasted.. So I started running again and haven't stopped since.

You just ran you first Ultra, how was it?  What inspired you to want to take on a challenge like that?  Will you do it again?  

At the time of writing this I am approaching my first ultra. Part of the reason for wanting to do it is the desire to push my own limits and that feeling f a fear of the unknown that comes with a challenge like that. It's great being able to do 5 and 10k's but now it is about the time achievement over that distance rather than being able to complete the distance. With an ultra distance I know I am going to struggle and hurt to make it to the end..it's not an accomplishment easily earned.

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

The Bath Half Marathon in Somerset, UK was a great race and I am signed up to do it again next year. It is an ancient town having being occupied for thousands of years but built into a major town by the Romans. The half is that mid ground between distance and speed and makes it an enjoyable experience.

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

Any race any where in the world? I think with my aspirations it would have to be an ultra event. One of the large events such as UTMB or Western States 100, this would be because of the complete insanity of trying to cover such a vast distance.

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

A little of both but leaning slightly more to competitive...but always remembering the only person I am competing with is myself.

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

I have never won a race or age group...yet! I have won a team prize trophy. The system was the first 3 people home from each club would have the times added up, the fastest team time wins. I was the third man home for our team and the cumulative time was the fastest. Not having won anything before the club presented me with the trophy..a very proud moment! Keep working hard, it will pay off in the end.

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

I've had loads of injuries in the past 18 months. Compartment syndrome, where the muscle is over developed and tight inside the sheath of skin it sits inside of. Torn ankle ligaments from running races to close together and not enough recovery time. I had 2 half marathons and a 10k run in the space of 3 weeks. Strangely enough my current PB came from the 10k where I was running injured! I have also had small tears and painful tight spots. I have been seeing a physio for some time now which I can highly recommend, it has been painful treatment but I have far fewer problems now.

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

Usually the first 5 minutes after crossing the finish line my head is absolutely buzzing and I need a few minutes to calm down before I can talk with people. then the elation of having a successful run sets in.

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

The PB I'm most proud of I think is my 10k. Running on an injured ankle when I shouldn't have been out, fighting as hard as possible around the course and finishing in 43 minutes 27 seconds.

Have you ever ran a race in costume?  Would you?  

I have never run a race in a costume, I would consider it as long as I was confident that it wouldn't stop me from completing the distance.

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?

I don't really have any funny running stories. A crazy run I had was when considering if I could run an ultra or not and looking at races I decided to take myself 500 miles from home and run 35 miles across the Scottish highlands as a private test to see if I was mentally strong enough to cover the distance. I arrived by train at 08.15am and had 11 and 1/2 hours until my return train left in the evening. If I missed the train I would have been 500 miles from home with no accommodation!

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

I like challenging myself and I no longer want to squander my life. I wish to take it as far as possible, there are no limits I put upon myself.

15.  Do you hope to be a lifelong runner?

Yes!

16.  What is your dream or biggest goals?

My biggest dream would be able to make a living from running. Slightly more realistic is to continue improving and become more competitive.

What Countries have you run races in?  Share a few or your favorites?

My races have taken place in London, Essex, Somerset, Cambridgeshire and the Scottish highlands.

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

I think running with groups is great for improving ability and confidence.

Have you ever run a relay race?

I have never run in a relay, yet.

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

I've been listening to music for ages but recently have weened myself away from it. 2 top songs? Lamb of God - Take You Away and maybe Godsized - Walking Away

Do you cross train?  What types?

I don't cross train at the moment but am looking at putting something in place for the winter.

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

Other hobbies include reading, listening to music, going to the odd concert, spending time with my family and eating curry.

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

The amazing achievement of others really helps spur me on, watching their films or reading books.

What is your must have running accessory?

My current must have accessory is my phone running nike+ but over winter it will probably change to my HRM.

Favorite pre and post run food?

Pre run I usually eat oats, banana and honey and a large glass of water, preferably 2 hours before running. after a run of 12 miles or shorter I will only have a carb based drink, over 12 miles I will have a protein drink as well.

Water or Sports drink?

Mainly water, sports drink during or after a run.

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

I keep all of my quality technical t-shirts, medals and race bibs.

What footwear do you use and why?

I have a Uk size 9 feet and over pronate quite badly so the shoes I have used with success are Asics Foundations 11, Brooks Adrenaline GTS 13 and Salomon Crossmax Guidance. 

Tell us something unique about you.

Wow, something unique about me? I was beaten by UK celebrity Dermot O'Leary in the Bath half marathon by 42 seconds exactly! Next year I'll beat him!

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

For someone starting out running I would recommend getting a HRM and to take it slowly. Don't limit any particular distance but do use a run walk strategy.

You Can Find Baz Blogging At:

http://fearlessfeet.wordpress.com/

You Can Also Follow Baz Via

Runners Spotlight - Let me Introduce Gene

Every runner has a great story, that pushes them and drives them to do what they do.  I find it fascinating to learn about others, and in return it also inspires and motivates.  I know I am not the only one who feels this way.  So Runners Spotlights are now a weekly series I do every Thursday.

This week I'd like to introduce Gene.

I asked Gene several questions, to help tell part of his story and introduce you all to him. 

Gene Blogs at Run for It!!

First I just have to ask, on your blog you have a beautiful picture of a forest trail run.  Will you share with us where this trail is at? 

This is at Falls Lake in Raleigh, NC It is part of the Mountains to Sea trail. 

I see you run everything from 5k to Ultra’s.  Do you have a favorite race distance? 

50K 

What is the furthest distance you have ever run at once? 

100 miles at the Umstead 100 Mile Endurance Run. Finished in 26 hours 55 minutes 


Like myself a lot of us marathoner’s have toyed with the idea of going Ultra.  For let’s say those who’d like to eventually make the jump to a 50 miler, what is the best training tip you can give us? 

Build slowly. Focus on becoming strong mentally as well as physically. One of my favorite quotes comes from Lao Tzu: “Anticipate the difficult by managing the easy.” 

Trails, roads, hills… You do a bit of everything, what type of road is your favorite running surface?

Single track trail is my favorite! 

Do you have a favorite race you have done?  Why is it your favorite? 

The Hinson Lake 24 hour run is my favorite! Just a great atmosphere with great people running and volunteering. 

What states have you run races in?

I have run in NC, Virginia and W. Virginia  

If you could run any race in the entire world, which one would you pick and why? 

I would like to run the Lost Worlds race in Europe, which is a trail race series. I would love to run trails across Europe! 

Do you hope to be a lifelong runner?  

Yes! 

What inspires you or motivates you? 

Reading or hearing about other people racing or training hard! 

I noticed you are a Vegan.  I know it can be hard for a runner to make the switch to vegetarian, let alone vegan.  But I know lots of runners wonder about trying it.  Any tips to share?  

Being a Vegan, can you share with us what is the best way to get your protein in? 

The biggest thing I hear from people trying to go from vegetarian to vegan is giving up cheese. You have to be willing to sacrifice, but I find the results are worth it. My recovery times are very quick now. I eat a lot of tofu and beans and also supplement with a hemp protein shake every day.  

Do you have any other hobbies you’d like to share? 

I like to read and to cook, especially since eating out can be tricky! 

I noticed you teach a spin class.  Can you tell us how cross training with spinning can help us become better runners, or just better athletes overall?  

With spinning or cycling you are getting a great cardio workout in without the impact on the legs. You are also using different leg muscles as well, so you will have a more balanced leg and avoid injury. 

You’re a fitness instructor, what is the most rewarding part of your job? 

Having people come up to me after class and thank me for kicking their ass! 

Not only are you a fitness instructor, ultra runner, but you are also a father.  How do you fit it all in, how do you manage your passion of running/fitness with the rest of your life? 

I have to remind myself often that it is about balance. It is a full life, but I would not want it any other way. I have also been blessed with the ability to function on about 4-6 hours of sleep a night! 

Tell us, when you go “new” blog searching.  What types of things grab your interest, what types of blogs do you love to follow? 

I like to find blogs that are out of the mainstream. Quirky blogs about ultra running, vegans  and humorous people intrigue me! 

Tell us about your blog, what do you blog about?  What can readers expect if they follow your blog?

I generally blog about my experiences running and training for ultras, being outdoors and products that I really like and use every day. I try not to take myself too seriously and inject humor into my writing whenever possible. 

You can find Gene's Blog HERE

FOLLOW GENE TODAY

I enjoyed doing this spotlight!  I haven't spoken to a lot of Ultra Marathon Runners who have done the 50 and 100 mile races.  (I have hopes to work into it one day:).  I enjoyed learning about Gene and why he runs.  Look forward to following him in his future running endeavors:)