Serene captured 1st Place at the 2011 Flagstaff Marathon!
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Where are you from?
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Originally from Colorado, but currently live in Dallas/Fort
Worth, TX
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Current P.R.
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3:09.08 Oct 2010
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Birthday
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April 21
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Number of marathons
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21
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Typical pace
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Marathons: 7:15-7:40
Training: 7:30-8:00
Pacing: 8:15- 9:15
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Favorite marathon
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They have all been favorites really – each one is unique.
Chicago 2006 was the coldest and OKC 2007 was the hottest. NYC 2007 was a
disappointment for me, but Boston 2006 was awesome!
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Occupation
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Project Manager
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Favorite Running Food
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Carbs – bread, pancakes, macaroni and cheese from a box, and
CiCi’s pizza buffet (night before a race).
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Hobbies
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Running, of course! And biking, hiking, kayaking, reading,
puzzles, and crocheting.
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Who do you train with?
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Primarily my i-pod, and sometimes my husband (he rides his bike
while I run).
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Favorite book, what are you reading now?
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I really don’t have a favorite book – there are too many good
ones out there.
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A quotation you like…
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“Never give up”
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Personal goals
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Run a marathon in every state, take trips with my husband to
create more memories, guide my children towards success as they approach
adulthood.
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Why do you run?
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I always feel as if I have accomplished something every day when
I run. I feel more energized and alive after running, and it also allows me
to “pig out” every now and then and not gain weight! I also do some of my
best thinking and decision-making when I run.
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Describe your best
marathon memory.
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My very first marathon – Honolulu,
HI 2000. I was living there at
the time and decided 4 weeks before the race to do it since I was there. I
didn’t really train for it – my longest run before the marathon was 8 miles! This
is not a smart thing to do, so don’t do it! I didn’t have a goal in mind for
the race – I just wanted to finish. I was shocked when I crossed the line at
3:43.
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Why do you pace?
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Pacing enhances my overall marathon experience. I love cheering
a group on towards their marathon goals by being enthusiastic, energetic, and
somewhat goofy during the race. There is personal gratification in helping
others through pacing that cannot be matched – not only do I get to do what I
love while pacing, but I also get to encourage and motivate others. Pacing is
a challenge – instead of running for my best time or a certain place, I am
accountable for those who have joined my pace group. They are counting on
me!
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Tell us your best
pacing experience.
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Fargo, ND - the runners in
my pace group were spirited and seemed to enjoy my craziness. Some of them even
volunteered to carry my pace sign, and I was able to get the crowds involved to
cheer on my “awesome” group. And to top it off, all the other pacers were
really fun to be with before, during, and after the marathon.
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Why should someone run
in your pace group?
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I am high energy and enthusiastic. I will do what I can to keep
your mind on your goals and having fun instead of any pain and doubts you may
be experiencing during the race. Be prepared for silly cadences and cheers at
every mile.
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Any tips for runners
about to join your group?
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Make sure you hydrate really well several days before the race – and go to
the bathroom A LOT before you arrive at the start line! I don’t plan to stop
at any port-a-potties along the way!
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Anything else you’d
like to share?
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Share your passion of running with others – spouse, friend,
sibling, parent, child – or join a
running club. I have not joined a running club, but sharing my passion with
my husband enhances my running experience and makes it more enjoyable – he is
my #1 supporter and cheerleader. I am grateful to have him in my life.
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What philanthropic
activities do you have?
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Crocheting clowns for children who are in long-term care in
hospitals.
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