Thumbs Up Thursday...Melanie Faulkner

This week's spotlight is on Melanie of Tall Mom on the Run. I few weeks ago I sought out Melanie's advice for my pacing debut after I read about her pacing success on her blog. All of her advice and suggestions were spot on and helped me get Jenn to the finish line of her first 1/2 marathon, all while crushing her goal time! Thanks again Mel!!

And now without further delay, I give you the best part of Thumbs Up Thursday!!

Jodi: How long have you been running?

Melanie: I ran in junior high and high school to stay in shape for sports. I ran in college to relieve stress, see the city and stay in shape for Basketball. But I became a RUNNER after my first 5K Race for the Cure June 2008.

Jodi: Why did you start running?

Melanie: I started to run because I had gain 50-60 pounds in pregnancies, I was tired of feeling heavy and not having the energy to play with my kids. I had to shop in plus sized stores. I felt gross in my own skin. Most of my life I was a peak performing athlete, I missed it. I needed an outlet, to connect with my body and have something for me.

Melanie and her family at a 5 Mile Race

Jodi: How many years have you been racing?

Melanie: First RACE where I considered myself really RACING was the Capital City Half Marathon in May of 2009.

Jodi: What is your favorite distance to race and why?

Melanie: I really enjoy the Half Marathon, I feel like I understand pacing and how my body will perform for 13.1. I go out too fast in the 5K, the 10K is PAINFUL and the Marathon is draining. If 10 milers were popular that would for sure be my favorite. After a Half Marathon I feel a huge sense of accomplishment but can still enjoy my day and not be sore for days to come. It is a GREAT GREAT Finish line!!

Jodi: What is your favorite race memory?

Melanie: Seeing my husband along the course in Eugene, he believed in me and was there just for me. His blue eyes sparkled as he took pictures and cheered me on. The pride in his face made the accomplishment of qualifying for Boston all the more enjoyable.

Melanie finishing the Eugene Marathon

Jodi: What is your least favorite race memory?

Melanie: I lost my bladder during my first Marathon, I felt humiliated and defeated. It was disgusting and very uncomfortable. I have learned a lot since that Wet and dreary mistake.

Jodi: What is your proudest running moment to date?

Melanie: Running 1,000 miles in 2009 was HUGE for me. It seemed so unattainable, but I chipped away and made it happen. That is why I started the 1,000+++ Club, I want others to feel that Amazing pride.

Jodi: What one item do you absolutely have to have with you on a training run?

Melanie: My Garmin, I like to know how far I have gone regardless of where I am. i love that I can travel and run and always know my distance, pace and calories. It is a wonderful and freeing training tool. One of the best Christmas gifts I have ever received, thanks Mom and Dad.

Jodi: What is your favorite fuel during a race?

Melanie: Gu Chomps are fun to eat and pack a punch. Gu Roctane has saved me when I needed and energy boost. I also love Saltstick capsules for Marathon training to avoid muscle cramping.

Jodi: What is your favorite post race snack?

Melanie: Chocolate Milk and SALT!!!

Jodi: Who do you admire most and why?

Melanie: People who have goals and dreams and will stop at nothing to make those dreams into reality. Running Moms, small business owners, Authors, anyone who inspires others to believe in their potential.

Jodi: Do you have a favorite quote?

Melanie: I have soo many favorite quotes, but this quote by John Wooden has been with me the longest. too many people let what they cannot do hold them back. My personal mantra is to focus on what I DID do, instead of what I did not do. this approach has served me well in life. “Don't let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.” ~John Wooden

Jodi: Finish this statement, when I run I feel ___________.

Melanie: Athletic and Beautiful.

Jodi: What is your current goal?

Melanie: As a Runner- To trim down, firm up and have a great Marathon training cycle for Boston 2011. As a Wife- to cross the Half Marathon finish line with my husband in the next few years. As a Mom- to inspire my children to be fit and make physical fitness their lifestyle. As Melanie- To get my Coaching certification and help women to BELIEVE and reach for their goals in running and in life. To write and have a book published.

Jodi: Please feel free to add anything else you feel will help others lace up their shoes and get out there and run!!

Melanie: Thanks to Jodi for hosting!! This is such an honor... I love meeting new people and seeing runners of all shapes, sizes, ages and goals. Running is the great equalizer. Anyone can lace up a pair of shoes and hit the pavement. It starts with 1 step. You chose to keep those steps going to make miles. You chose to make those miles a habit. You chose to make that habit a lifestyle. Aspire to inspire!! Tall Mom



Thanks again for the opportunity to spotlight you Melanie! Best of luck achieving your goals! You will be great!!



Keep running, you're simply the best, and Melanie YOU inspire ME!!