Thumbs Up Thursday Anniversary Edition....Jenn

One year ago I did my first Thumbs Up Thursday spotlight on Jenn.  When I originally started Thumbs Up Thursdsay I just told Jenn's story of weight loss and getting fit.  I figured what could be more appropriate than having Jenn answer the Thumbs Up Thursday questions one year later.  With that being said, I give you the question and answer portion of Thumbs Up Thursday!!

Jodi:  How long have you been running?
Jenn:  I am new to running; I have only been running for just over a year. Before this I would have laughed if you asked me to run. Even in high school I would make up any excuse not to do it.

Jodi:  Why did you start running?
Jenn:  I have been struggling with my weight for a while. I was at the gym one morning, walking on the treadmill as usual, when an ambulance pulled up. Someone had got injured in the back of the gym. I decided to try to run on the treadmill while the paramedics where there, because if I were to fall off, they would be there to help me out. :) Shortly after that I found a C25K program and decided to follow it. I enjoyed every accomplishment that came along with the program. I found that running had many rewards, some of which were immediate, which I liked.

Before and After

Jodi:  How many years have you been racing?
Jenn:  My very first race was 4-30-2010 – just over a year.

Jenn at her first 5k

Jodi:  What is your favorite distance to race and why?
Jenn:  I have to say the half marathon is my favorite distance. It is long enough that I can get into a good stride, yet short enough that I don’t feel like I am going to die.

Jodi:  What is your favorite race memory?
Jenn:  My very first half marathon is my favorite memory. I can remember the nerves at the starting line. I met two crazy people (Julie and Bill) who ran 7 miles before the race because it was a training run for an upcoming marathon. I thought they were crazy. I set off and took my pace. Jodi was there to cheer me on, make sure that I was ok and help me finish in my goal between 2:15 and 2:30. I completely controlled the pace and we finished in 2:06. What an amazing accomplishment. Running across the finish line with Jodi by my side, and feeling an amazing sense of accomplishment was worth it.

River Run 1/2 Marathon

Jodi:  What is your least favorite race memory?
Jenn:  The Cleveland Marathon was my least favorite race memory. While I was so proud to have accomplished a marathon, but at mile 22 I was injured with bad shin splints. I completed the marathon, but after heading to the medical tent and then limping back to the hotel, I had my hubby take me straight to the ER. I ended up on crutches, and now even a month after the Marathon I am still not running, still in pain, but healing daily. I am taking it slowly so that I will run again soon.

Cleveland Marathon 2011

Post-Marathon

Jodi:  What is your proudest running moment to date?
Jenn:  Really I have too many to count. Mostly that I have accomplished all I have. I overcame self-doubt. I ran more than I have ever run in my life. I have met great friends who have taught me so many things but mostly to believe in myself. I know that I can accomplish anything that I set my mind to, I just have to believe in myself. So my proudest moment is my journey as a new runner.

Jodi:  What one item do you absolutely have to have with you on a training run?
Jenn:  My water. I take so much with me when I am running, but I learned a hard lesson about bringing my water with me on a few training runs.

Jodi:  What is your favorite fuel during a race?
Jenn:  Gu is what I have used so far. They work well and keep me going.

Jodi:  What is your favorite post race snack?
Jenn:  It depends on the race. I am not picky. But the entire marathon I wanted a beer – which I never got.

Jodi:  Who do you admire most and why?
Jenn:  Jodi! She has taught me so much when it comes to running. She has kept patience with me, even when I am sure it was difficult. But mostly because she has set goals and accomplished them. She is a dedicated runner, who truly loves the sport. She is willing to help anyone who needs it. Jodi offers words of encouragement all of the time. I can honestly say without her, I would have never tried to run a half marathon or even a full marathon. There were many mornings that I would have never got up for my long run. Jodi is a true friend who inspires me to do my best and accomplish my goals! She is my support system. She is my shoulder to cry on. She is a true friend, coach and amazing person.
*Disclaimer, I Jodi, did not pay her to say this however I am truly honored!*

Jodi:  Do you have a favorite quote?
Jenn:  Suck It Up Cupcake

Jodi:  Finish this statement, when I run I feel___________.
Jenn:  Relaxed. Running is my therapy. I am able to let my stress go. I feel good about myself even during a bad run.

Jodi:  What is your current goal?
Jenn:  I have two goals. My first one is to heal up and start running by middle of July. I would love to say July 1, but I am being realistic. The second goal is to run the Columbus Half Marathon in under 2 hours.

Jodi:  Feel free to add anything else you feel will help people lace up their shoes and get out there.
Jenn:  Jodi, thank you for featuring me again. I know that if I can do this anyone can. Running is an amazing feeling, because you are facing yourself. It does not matter what any other person out there is doing, it is all about you.

Thanks again for the opportunity to give you a Thumbs Up Jenn.

Keep running, you're simply the best, and Jenn YOU inpsire ME!!