Every week we highlight one of our members from the TRU Tribe Running Team. Meet Carolyn! If we can do it, so can you!
I picked Carolyn because she just did her first 50K…she started out hating trails and hills (and maybe still does) and did her first trail race in March of this year…then first double down (first night trail race) then Jackass 31K with longest trail and night run…. she got out of her comfort zone all year!
Why did you start running?
My personal trainer in high school was the biggest inspiration (still is). She turned me onto treadmill running and fitness. In college I taught spinning class for extra money, and some friends talked about doing a 10 Miler (Broad Street Run!), so I thought it sounded fun. I liked the challenge, the goals and the feat, and how I felt afterwards. So it continued.
What age did you start running?
19
How old are you now?
34
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far from your running journey?
Never doubt yourself, and never let other’s negative words influence what you can and can’t do. If I stopped every time someone said I shouldn’t, or couldn’t, I wouldn’t be where I am today. And the journey to be where I am today, has been such a great one!
What advice would you give a beginner runner?
Find a group that supports you and your goals. I’ve been most successful when I’ve found a group that sees me for me and never made me feel less of an athlete because I was in the back of the pack.
What would you do differently knowing what you know now?
As soon as you feel aches and pains get new shoes, don’t wait. (Says the the woman who has a million blisters post race). What else would I do differently, don’t settle for the first group or coach that you find, it’s like trying on shoes you have to find one that matches perfectly for you (like the #tru tribe) and not one that’s just convenient. Especially when you get going towards long slow distances.
What is your longest race distance and why?
50k!! It’s fun to do the perceived impossible. And it’s amazing what the body can accomplish with dedication and perseverance!
Do you have a bucket list race or distance?
Full marathon, but now that I’ve done an ultra 🤷🏻♀️
What has been your favorite race and/or distance so far?
Shamrock half marathon in Virginia Beach- great beautiful course that finishes on the boardwalk and then leads you into a yuengling beer tent with Irish stew. Big Pine is a favorite trail race!
What is your favorite color?
Teal
What is your favorite post race food and drink?
I’ve started to day dream about Aravaipa’s grilled cheese before my last race, so maybe that, or pizza. Drink wise, whatever sounds refreshing and good, beer, cider, nuun, ginger ale
Anything else you want to share with the TRU TRIBE Online 🥰
Thank you all for always being so super supportive! It means so much to know I have you all in my corner!! 🤗