A Runner and a Friend: The Interview

Running friends. Aren't they the greatest?

We all have running friends, and we're quite grateful for all that we share with them as we journey our way to becoming better runners.

We keep each other motivated, encouraged and inspired. Some of these friends willingly get up early on Saturday mornings (year round) to keep us company on a long run. They travel with us to places near and far, all for the sake of pinning on a race bib and crossing another finish line. They celebrate our achievements and hug us through our struggles.

And, if we are truly lucky, they become more than just running friends...they become real friends as well.

Let me introduce to you a gal you've seen several times on my blog, my dear friend, Barb!

At Barb's daughters' wedding, March 2017

Since she's been a regular on my blog, I thought it only appropriate to tell you a little more about her. We'd known each other a long time, and had seen each other at local races. On a whim, we started driving together to some out-of-town races. Before long, we began running together on occasion. Alas, as they say, the rest is history.

Barb is not only a dear friend, but she's also a proud Iowa Hawkeye!

I give you the interview:

How did you become a runner?
I had run a little bit over the years since high school, but really wasn't too motivated to try anything over 5K. After meeting several Leadership Iowa classmates who had all run half marathons, and finding two friends who encouraged me and offered training, I decided to give distance running a try.

What was your first big race? How did you feel about it?
My first race was the Drake Half Marathon in April, 2012. I trained even more than needed. Decided I couldn't race 13.1 miles if I didn't run that far once or twice in training. Finished, got a massage and drove home from Des Moines that day. Glad about my race and finish, but not overwhelmed or emotional. I knew I would keep going with more training and races.

What is your favorite event?
My favorite race is Market to Market Relay. I love my teammates. We have lots of fun making plans and running the race. We have enough food for a week but hardly eat any. We encourage each other no matter who or what happens. I'm excited to run my best to help the team. We've had the best and worst weather for running but no one minds and we are always planning for next year as soon as we're done!

2019

2017

What would you say has been your favorite race experience?

I think my favorite race experience was the Route 66 Marathon. It was a well-organized race. We met lots of people. I'd never been to Tulsa and Route 66 is historically significant. I was happy with my results and got to run 14 miles with a complete stranger who is now my friend.

What has been your worst race experience?
Can't think of a worst race experience, although I never particularly enjoy any of the really cold or wet races. My last marathon (Cannonball Marathon) in Greensboro, NC was a bust...probably because I had higher expectations than my result. But it was a great trip with friends so that made the whole experience much better than the race itself.

Any big running/racing mistakes you've committed?
Can't think of a big mistake - maybe failing to research the NC terrain while we were training for that event.

Lessons learned along the way?
One lesson I've learned is to prepare well for any race. Don't take my body for granted- so train, fuel, sleep, charge all equipment, make sure to have the right gear, and most importantly, run  my own race.

Christmas in July 6-hour ultra (2015), 1st place masters division!

What are some of your favorite running gear items?
My favorite gear would be my Garmin watch and IPod Shuffle. Both encourage me through training and races.

Got any advice for new runners?
For new runners, find some people you know who run. Ask lots of questions, take their advice, make sure you have shoes that are good for you (not someone else) and find a good running buddy!

What makes you keep running?
I started out (eight years ago) thinking that running was an individual "thing" and it was all about my mind, body and soul...so to speak. I quickly learned that running is all about community, and finding that companion who gets me out of bed, out of my comfort zone, shares my passion and pushes me to my limits. I am thankful and blessed to have found a running community and, more  importantly, that soulmate and special friend who shares my passion and joy for running!

Des Moines Women's Half Marathon (May 2017)

I have not counted how many races Barb and I have done together (probably over 100?), nor how many miles we've logged while keeping each other company. I do know how blessed I am to have someone (a half-mile away, none the less) who shares my love and passion for running.

Do you have local running buddies who you run with frequently? Or travel with to non-local races?

I'm linking this with Kim and Zenaida for the Tuesday Topics Link-Up

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I'm also linking with Debbie,  Rachel, Deborah, Lisa, Sandra and Jenn for the Runners' Roundup

 By the way...are you following me on social media? You can find me at these various platforms:

Let's connect : Facebook Instagram  Pinterest Twitter