Where are you from?

Kalamazoo, MI

Current P.R.

5:00 - 2016 Freep Marathon

Typical pace

2:15 - 2:30

Number of marathons

3

Occupation

Human Resources Advisor

Favorite marathon

Detroit Free Press

Hobbies

Running, cooking and spending time with my family

Favorite Running Food

Oatmeal and a banana

What are you reading now?

I am currently not reading anything but recently finished The Hate U Give

Who do you train with?

I have used the Hal Higdon training plans everytime

Personal goals

Competing in a beginners triathlon, completing three full marathons in 2018 and learning to swim

A quotation you like…

If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you!

Why do you run?

I started running consistently back in 2015 to help with my weight loss goals and shortly thereafter made it apart of my everyday lifestyle to stay physically fit.

Describe your best marathon memory.

October 2015, my best memory is seeing all my immediate family at the finish line.

Why do you pace?

I enjoy helping others achieve their running goals.

Tell us your best pacing experience.

My first and best pace experience was July 1, 2017. Myself and one of my regular running partners from Moms Run This Town were the 12:00 pacers, although we didn’t have any runners with us the whole time, we met runners along the way that we were able to support and encourage to keep moving forward. I enjoyed interacting with the spectators and giving high-fives to the little children along the course that were holding run signs to support their families.

Why should someone run in your pace group?

I understand my role as a pacer so I don’t have any hidden run agendas to make the race about me! I enjoy meeting new runners that are excited about completing a new race  or distance.  I absolutely always encourage runners to smile pretty for the camera anytime they see the “official photographers” to be able to look back on those awesome fun run photos.

Any tips for runners about to join your group?

Don’t do anything new or different on race that your body hasn’t had the opportunity to experience during a training run.

Anything else you’d like to share?

Just enjoy the experience of running and remember that forward is the pace! If your legs give out, run with your heart!

What philanthropic activities do you have?

I volunteer at different running events during the year.  I am currently a parent volunteer coach for Girls on the Run in Calhoun County.