Liz

I love to take on new things, research, ask questions, watch others, then practice, practice, practice! When I graduated college, it was the first time in my life where I felt completely free to choose something new to learn about. Sure, I’m in a career field which is continuously changing and requiring me to learn and adjust – but I felt a void. What could I try that I had never done before? I started with a sprint triathlon, which led to a half marathon, which led to another half marathon… and well let’s just say it’s now been three years since I started that running journey and as of November 2017, I’ve completed 15 half marathons and two full marathons. The sport I once hated has now forced its way into my life, and I love it. 

This past year I was training for the Seattle Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon and started to get bored going out for long runs by myself. I also realized I was hitting a plateau of what I felt I could teach myself about running. I had seen a large group of Cascade Run Club team members at a previous race I had done and decided to look them up. From what I could tell, they offered the perfect balance of coaching and community – turns out that is exactly true! I love that each practice gives me the space to become a stronger and faster runner and that I’m encouraged to do so by a supportive team and coach. I have loved becoming part of this running community that cares for one another – in health, running, and personally! 

Half Marathon PR: 1:58:26

Marathon PR: 4:39:43

Training Pace: ~ 9:30-10:00

Favorite Shoes: New Balance 880 or Brooks Ghost

Favorite Race Distance: Half Marathon

Favorite Racing Experience: Finishing my second marathon! My first marathon destroyed me. The second time I was out to prove to myself that I could indeed enjoy this distance and beat the mental challenge I knew would face me 20+ miles in. And I did just that! After months of training, I crossed the finish line with a 43-minute PR. Not only did I crush my goal time, I enjoyed the distance, and I didn’t finish in a miserable state. This was the race I needed personally to prove to myself that I could be a distance runner.

Favorite CRC Memory: Probably my first CRC practice where we ran fartleks. I was so nervous about my first practice. I had no idea what to expect out of the club or out of myself (I had NEVER ran with anyone else or been part of a running team). I immediately felt welcomed! They were so encouraging and their hard work inspired me. With the support of new friends, I ended up surprising myself with how fast I could run.