Where are you from?

Originally Florida, now Connecticut

Current P.R.

Marathon - 5:47:50

Half Marathon – 2:22:23

Typical pace

11-12 minutes per mile

Number of marathons

3

Occupation

Teacher and Homemaker

Favorite marathon

Mohawk Hudson River Marathon

Hobbies

Yoga, reading, knitting, painting, and cooking

Favorite Running Food

E.L. Fudge Double Stuffed Elfwich Cookies, Cheetos, Donut Holes, and Maurten Gels

What are you reading now?

I just finished the memoir, Educated, by Tara

Westover and I just started the Arcana Rising Series by Kresley Cole. Opposite ends of the spectrum, I know.

Who do you train with?

Tom’s Team

Mostly friends and other pacers.

Personal goals

Sub 5-hour marathon

A quotation you like…

I have two quotes I live by:

“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” – Mae West

“Even if you’re on the right track, you will get run over if you just sit there.” -Will Rogers

Why do you run?

Running gives me the freedom to just be me. Not a mom, wife, teacher, or daughter, just me in those freeing miles.

Describe your best marathon memory.

May 2024, Revel White Mountains Marathon in New Hampshire. A close friend of mine turned 80 and wanted to run this marathon for his birthday. A few of us runners banded together to train and run this race with him. We had laughs, challenges, and even tears that day. Watching my friend accomplish his goals was incredible experience.

Why do you pace?

I love the running community. I truly enjoy helping others achieve their goals and feel blessed to see their reactions at the finish line.

Tell us your best pacing experience.

I helped pace my friend, who just turned 80, during the Revel White Mountains Marathon. It was a team effort, but being there to help pace, encourage, and experience this race with him is a very proud and emotional experience.

Why should someone run in your pace group?

I believe running should be fun. I love talking and singing as we count down the miles. I also love making up fun games as we run: How many high fives can we get? How many dogs can we pet? Get ready to have fun with me!

Any tips for runners about to join your group?

Have fun and enjoy the race! Don’t worry about your pace, that’s my job! Your job is to soak in this experience.

Anything else you’d like to share?

Three years ago, I had bariatric surgery. I have lost over 130 pounds and now live a very active lifestyle. Running has become a very large part of my life and brings me so much joy. Running has taught me that I am capable of accomplishing hard things! I may be a slower runner but I am a very happy and enthusiastic runner.

What philanthropic activities do you have?

I help mentor a local beginners 5k group. I also tutor high school students in math.