(click the pics to biggen them)
This entry into the RUNNERS archive is looooong overdue. I have known Rachel since I “met” her on Twitter, in the lead-up to the first “Riverwest Plus” in 2013! Since then, Rachel and I have been friends and occasionally gotten out to run together. With an impending move to Madison approaching, I decided I need to take a together-run opportunity to make Rachel’s portrait, and get her interview answers. She’s an excellent person, and a passionate proponent of both running and craft beer, as you’ll read!
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How old are you? 31
How long have you been running? 6 years
Why do you run? To connect with myself, nature and others.
What is the hardest part of running for you?
Making time. My life got a bit complicated over the last year and I don’t run nearly as much as I use to. Trying to manage a household of myself and twins on my own usually leaves me exhausted. Since my kids are still young it also means I can’t just “get up and go” any time I want. Runs require planning and care. It was MUCH easier before my treadmill broke!
What got you started running?
I started running on a bet! I had been working out at the Y for a few months and use to avoid the treadmill at ALL costs. One day, maybe even jokingly, a friend bet me she could run a 5K faster than me so I started “training”. That 5K turned into me wanting to complete a half marathon by the time I was 30 then I found myself finishing my first 50K two weeks before that milestone.
What sort of distances do you run, and which do you like best?
I run everything up to 50Ks. Training wise I like ½ marathons because it’s so doable without eating too much into your life outside of running. Event wise the two trail 50Ks I’ve done have been my favorite to participate in. The vibe is so much different and it’s basically an eating competition with some running/hiking/falling thrown in. I love being out on the trails so if I can go do that for 6-7 hours I am happy.
What is your favorite post-run snack?
Beer. When I was training for my first marathon I needed some long run motivation so I would buy a “nice” or “special” beer that I wouldn’t otherwise splurge on. The rule was I could ONLY drink it if I completed my miles. Run 19 instead of 21, no beer! It worked like a charm and helped marry my love for running and craft beer.
