I ran track in High School but was not competitive enough for the 100 yard dash or anything over 220 and I did not like the longer runs, so I focused on the low and high hurdles. I actually placed 2nd in the high hurdles in the Va. State Track and Field championships after a rival fell during my race which opened the door for me to place. I never liked running long distances. In fact, during my first year in college I went out for the cross-country team only to quit the morning the team ran 10 miles. I started running again in my early 40s but did not get serious about it until I had a mild heart problem about 5 years ago, a story I generally do not share with others since I don't want anyone to worry about my health. Not eating healthy, overweight, workaholic, and high cholesterol finally took its toll.  After having 2 stints put in my heart, I have new appreciation for staying fit and healthy.   That motivated me to run my first marathon the following year. Since then I have run 8 marathons, 8 1/2 marathons, and too many 10Ks to remember. I may never qualify for Boston but I can be the biggest cheerleader to those that do. I have been coaching the 10K training program for the past 8 years and the Marathon Training Team for the past 2 years. I also have coached many through their first ½ marathon and I will say that if you can do a 10K, you CAN DO a 1/2. Hey, if I can do it, so can you. It’s all in your attitude. I also organize several weekend runs for runners on the west end of Richmond so if you are interested in being a part of this group, become a member of the West End Running Group to get our BLOGS on our weekend runs. Remember, runners have less stress!!! Happy running.

The picture on my profile is with my youngest son cheering me along and giving me water during my 3rd marathon. This year I ran MCM and NYC marathons back to back.