I am the Communications & Media Relations Manager at Johnson & Wales University.
How long have you been in Charlotte? What brought you here?
The stork. :) I am a Charlotte native! I graduated South Meck in 1986.
What’s your favorite restaurant and why should I go eat there? Hummm. I work for a university that is known for its culinary program, so some of my chef instructor co-workers may sputter at this one, but I must say, the neighborhood Brixx (Foxcroft) is a favorite. They’re friendly, fast, they have cold, Blue Moon on draft and their food is predictable…meaning, it’s always good!
When and why did you start running?
Probably because I was lazy and gained weight in college! After graduating, I worked in television news and knew I needed to stay in shape. Then I kicked it up a notch and started running races in about 2004. I’ve always been somewhat athletic and a little competitive. I grew up cheerleading, playing soccer and softball and always liked the outdoors. But for some reason, I was never interested in joining track in high school or college. None of my close friends were runners.
Running is something I discovered later in life. I am definitely more competitive now and I’m faster than ever. I’m 43-years-old. It’s a nice feeling to hit PRs and know I’m faster now than when I was in my 20’s. I have to give credit to my boyfriend, Brad Koch. He’s a runner and he’s crazy fast with a six-plus minute pace, so he knows what he’s doing and I trust him. Over the years, he’s developed running plans for me to help improve my time. He’s a marathoner. I’m a half-marathoner. That’s enough for me! I’m glad we share a common, healthy passion. I plan to continue running forever – especially because I work at a university known for its culinary and baking & pastry programs!
You have high blood pressure. Can you explain how (if at all) running has helped you combat that?
I should say a special thank-you to my grandmother, my aunt, my mother... :o)
I inherited it. I’m not overweight and I’ve been running for years, so it’s not fair! Fortunately, it’s not off the charts. I only take 5mg of meds a day, but still! My primary doctor isn’t concerned and says the running definitely will help keep it down. Fortunately, I haven’t had to ever increase my dosage. According to the American Heart Association, “Regular aerobic activities can lower blood pressure.” And according to WebMD, “Aerobic exercise has the most benefits for your heart. Over time, aerobic exercise can help decrease your heart rate and blood pressure and improve your breathing.”
What are some things you love most about running?
Tapering before a big race. Oh wait, not really, well…
It’s my only alone time! I like that I can run and just think or I can run and choose to tune out all the “noise” of the day. It’s great to just zone out. Other times, I’m mapping out my calendar in my head or creating a to-do list. It’s something that you can do anywhere, anytime. I REALLY like running alone and in the morning. I wouldn’t like having someone waiting for me or vice versa. If I wake up earlier than the alarm, I can go. If I don’t feel well or want to put it off until the afternoon, I can – usually. I do have to schedule my runs though. I have two small children and I work full-time.
Favorite Place you’ve traveled and loved for running?
The N.C. coast! It’s flat! Seriously, I graduated from UNC-Wilmington and have a love for Eastern North Carolina. I don’t like to run on the sand, but there is nothing like running through a coastal community. The smells of low tide, the flat routes, the scenery…Wrightsville Beach especially. I just ran the Quintiles half marathon. It’s fun to run around the area where you attended college and see all the changes or those old haunts that are still there! I love the S.C. coast too…I LOVE Folly Beach and Hilton Head. What beautiful areas!
What is your most memorable race and why?
Charlotte’s Race Fest.
Not sure what year, but you won’t find it! I’m bad with dates, but this one I definitely try to forget. It was HUMID. I don’t do humidity well. It was a miserable run. I distinctly remember crossing Fairview along the race route, removing my chip and throwing it into the woods! (I know, I know, I failed miserably as a conscientious runner. I littered!) That’s why you won’t find my time. It was a $90 race, because of the tossed chip, that Brad so kindly sponsored and we STILL talk about it. He immediately called his running buddy and they had a good laugh. I was mad all day. We just laughed about this on the way back from the Quintiles race. I told him I should run Race Fest this April and I’ll try and make it up to him – and to myself!
Where is your favorite place to run in Charlotte?
South Charlotte and Dilworth areas are awesome. Long runs on Fairview, Park Road, Sharon Roads, Queen, Selwyn and/or Providence roads…I feel very fortunate that Charlotte has so many nice sidewalks. Although I must say, in the older parts of Charlotte, I keep my eyes on the sidewalk cracks. I’ve fallen hard on my knees in places where tree roots are causing the sidewalks to crack, such as Queens Road. It didn’t help it was about 4:30 a.m. and was pitch dark! Bit it on Fairview too, near Carmel Road.
Favorite Charlotte area race?
Definitely the Yoasou Greek Festival because of the beautiful neighborhoods. It’s just a fun race, before and after! It’s in August, so it’s hot, but it’s a great course. (The Hog Jog races are fun - and funny - because my daughters, ages 6 and 8, run around with pig noses on. My 8-year old won for the girls during the short kids race this year!)
What’s your favorite distance and your PRs for that distance?
I don’t mean to sound lazy, but the 5Ks are really fun. My best time is a 7:44 pace for the Greek Fest. I ran 8:06 pace during the September ’10 Hog Jog.
What are your goals for 2011?
Work on a PR for my next half marathon. I’m trying to break 1:54:01. I would like to pick up speed for the local 5 and 10Ks. I want to just keep running and try to get to yoga once a week.
What compelled you to join the Charlotte Running Club?
Brad is always trying to help educate me on runners, the newest clothing and races in the Charlotte area. He found the Club first and then signed us both up! I’m excited to be featured in “Runner in the Spotlight.” It seems like most articles I run across, or magazines I pick up, are about elites or hard-core athletes. I think it’s important to also read items about recreational runners, like me, who juggle jobs, kids and blended families. I feel like I’ve accomplished a lot by getting out there three to four days a week. I’m proud to have my young daughters watch me cross the finish line. Now they are interested in running.
What’s your next race?
Akron Half Marathon, September 24. Don’t ask me why. Just tagging along with Brad. MAYBE Race Fest – bad vibes though. Stay tuned.
