Where are you from?

Plainville, CT

Current P.R.

3:28:51 Marathon

Typical pace

Depends on the day!  Anywhere from 7:00-10:00 min/mile.

Number of marathons

4

Occupation

Group Fitness Class Instructor

Favorite marathon

NU Hartford Marathon

Hobbies

Sprint triathlons, running, cake decorating, and spending time with my three beautiful children!

Favorite Running Food

Chocolate Peanut Butter GU and Lemon Lime Nuun!

What are you reading now?

One time I tried reading while I was running, but I ran into a street sign.  Just kidding!!!!

Who do you train with?

Hartford Marathon Foundation and Fleet Feet West Hartford

Personal goals

To compete in longer triathlons and make my three events equal in ability level.

A quotation you like…

“I think I can!  I think I can!”-The Little Engine that Could

Why do you run?

I run to set an example for my children, especially my daughters.  I want them to know that competitive sports are for everyone!  I also want to teach them that throughout life, the only way to be your best is to make sure you’re always taking care of yourself.

Describe your best marathon memory.

My best memory is finishing my first marathon in my home town with all my friends around me.  My second best memory was finishing Providence and beating my Boston Qualifying time by over 5 minutes.  Both situations proved that we are all capable of anything we put our minds to and work for!

Why do you pace?

I pace because it provides instant camaraderie!  Everything is a little easier with the support of a team and a leader that keeps the motivation high and the running consistent.  To watch people that were previously strangers help each other and meet a goal together is amazing and inspiring.

Tell us your best pacing experience.

I ran a half marathon in Middletown, CT, with some friends that were attacking their first half marathon.  Our pace leader was phenominal….so positive and encouraging….and I knew I had to help others the way she’d helped my friends.

Why should someone run in your pace group?

Just when it gets tough, I’ll be right there to make it a little easier.  A running tip here, a knock knock joke there, and before you know it, you’ll be over the finish line!  In addition to being a group fitness class instructor, I am also a half marathon training coach, and on a USATF recognized racing team.  I am an experienced runner and helping people achieve their goals is part of my everyday life.

Any tips for runners about to join your group?

Stick to the same clothing, hydration, and nutrition you’ve been successful with during your training!  Nothing new.  Now is the time to reflect on all the hard work you’ve put in and reap the rewards!  Make sure to give high fives to the kids on the sidelines, thank the volunteers, soak it all in, and enjoy every moment!

Anything else you’d like to share?

I’m a goofball!  You’ve been warned!