I love running. Here's why.

Hi and welcome to my blog! I have wanted a blog for such a long time, but life gets in the way. I am happy I am finally doing this and I hope you will join me in my adventures. This will be an intro post so let me tell you about me and my background.

I love running. Running has given me a huge part of my identity. It has shaped me into the courageous, joyful, adventurous person I am. I never had anything I could call my own before I discovered my passion for running. I am not here to sell you on running. I am just here to share what running has given me and inspire others to push their goals - no matter what sport.

How I got into running is kind of funny. In high school, I played field hockey and I didn't mind all the running we did. In fact, I only enjoyed the running part of the whole sport. Coming back into season, I would only train myself to run the 1 mile in hopes of making the best time on the team. I had no desire to work on my skill, just my running. I didn't enjoy the drama of the coaches and the favoritism. I just wanted to do my own thing - run my own show and race. My dad saw the drama I was facing being on a high school team. He continuously told me to switch to track or cross country. My mom always said, "Whit, what about cross country?" My dad told me I would be a dominant force in the 2 mile race on the track. At that time, I thought people who raced the 2 mile were nerds. Now, if I had a time machine, that is where I would go. To a lane of a 2 mile race and to track practice improving myself for this distance every day. First lesson: listen to your parents. They undoubtedly always know what is best for you and they would never steer you wrong. These people are your coaches for every situation, for all time. They already know what is right for you. Believe in the path.

After high school, I started running seriously. I got myself a very strong base before entering my first ever race. My first race set me soaring. I knew nothing about pace, speed work, or mileage. I just ran my heart out and my heart become a heart in love with running. That was 5 years ago and the love is still as strong. I have raced two marathons, two half marathons, and countless 5k's and 10k's. I am currently training for another half marathon in June (first one at altitude) so you will be able to read all about that. I am working on speed training and becoming as fast and free as I can.

Currently living in Durango, CO and finishing my bachelor's degree. This is my first time living at altitude. I have joined the running club here. Advice: join your local running club. These people are AWESOME. I don't think there is a better way to become a better runner. All ages, all different backgrounds - and the best part? They want you to be the best you can be. Everyone is pushing for each other while bettering themselves. I love these people and I can't wait to know them better.

That is a little bit about how I fell in love with this sport. It is the short version. Many more stories about the people who inspired me and insights into my days now. Hope to see you back here.

Happy trails!