When I was 19 I ran my first marathon because my mom ran marathons and I wanted to prove it wasn't that hard... it was that hard! I gained so much respect for her during that process and quickly learned that the marathon is as much a mental challenge as it is a physical challenge. I vowed after that race that I would never run another marathon. I used to hate running because I just saw it as punishment. When I graduated college I decided that I needed an activity so I reluctantly joined my mom’s run club. At the time it seemed like just something to do but it has evolved into something much more. Training with my teammates at run club is what I look forward to and is the best part of my day.

Like so many runners my mom had the goal to one day qualify for the pinnacle of our sport, the Boston Marathon. I watched her train and work towards this goal and in May of 2017 she did it! I was so happy for her and couldn't wait to cheer her on from the side in Boston.

I never thought I would be fast enough to qualify but watching her persist convinced me that I at least had to give it a try. I worked all summer and qualified in September 2017, just in time to submit my qualification time for the 2018 Boston Marathon. Not many people can say that their mom is their motivation and inspiration in a sport, but that’s exactly what she has turned into for me. She is the best role model, friend and teammate that I could ever ask for.

Attaining a Boston Marathon qualification made me feel like I could do anything I set my mind to. I’ve been given advice in the past that you should always set “attainable” goals. While I understand the basic thought behind this, I learned that setting goals that scare you and almost seem “unattainable” is the best way to see what you are capable of. I trained harder, smarter and more consistently for the Boston Marathon than anything else ever in my life. I may have gone a little overboard with the motivational quotes and positivity but I couldn’t help it. I could feel it transforming me into a better version of myself both physically and mentally.

On Marathon Monday, despite absolutely terrible conditions, I ran a fantastic race and finished with an eight minute Personal Best. While The Boston Marathon completely lived up to all the hype, I found myself reflecting more on the journey that got me there. Every mile, workout and teammate was a tool that I had with me on race day and all I had to do was execute.

Running and my running community that I love so much has made me a better Brittany. You better believe that I am setting some more “unattainable” goals for next season!