2015 Ironrunner Award Recipients

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? Every race offers its own ups and downs. The Fanny Freezer had a simple course, but unseasonably awesome weather. I was fighting an injury during the New Haven 10k, but I really appreciated the therapeutic post-race swim. And as always, the River City Rat Race showcased the beauty of fall in Fort Wayne.
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? I’m more of a half-marathoner, so the W.O.O.F. was a new distance for me. The first loop was refreshing jog through the beautiful landscape. But after catapulting from a hidden root, I finished the second loop muddy, bloody, black and blue. The third loop was a mental and physical battle to keep moving, especially during long stretches when I couldn’t hear anyone ahead or behind. By the time I crossed the finish line, I was hurting – but happy.
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? In addition to the points races, I completed eight others: the Get Green 5-Kilt, the Fort4Fitness Double Play (ran 13.1, walked 4), several Night Moves 5ks, the Derby Festival Half Marathon in Louisville, and the Acadia Half Marathon in Bar Harbor, Maine.
My friend Katy joined me for the Acadia Half Marathon. As one of only two half marathons inside Acadia National Park, it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The course was breathtaking – literally and figuratively. It took runners up the edge of a mountain, high above rocky blue coastlines, and under canopies of pines. In addition to the race, our “runcation” included driving a baby blue Beetle through quaint New England towns, kayaking around coastal islands, and eating our weight in fresh lobster. And there’s nothing tastier than a post-race recovery “lobstah” roll.
As for local races, I loved the Night Moves 5ks presented by Team Neighborlink. The series let runners explore city streets at night, and all for a worthy cause. My running buddies and I also did a memorable 10-mile training run in Ouabache State Park two weeks before W.O.O.F. It was the PERFECT fall day – warm sunshine, a carpet of yellow leaves, and a rainbow of foliage overhead.
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with?
I share the 2015 Ironrunner award with five of my running buddies: Kris, Molly, Emily, Kelsey and an adopted Grayhound mix named Dottie. We earned this award together, and we couldn’t have done it alone! These ladies have helped me stay motivated during training. But we’ve also helped each other reach new distances, overcome grief, vent about life’s stresses, and celebrate achievements. And as our crew’s most enthusiastic runner, Dottie sets a brisk pace!
What do you enjoy most about distance running?
Life is about setting goals and continually striving to improve. It's about exploring new places and taking things one step at a time. It’s about acknowledging limitations, yet overcoming obstacles. It’s about surrounding yourself with people who will lift you up and be your champion – rain or shine, in sickness and in health. If all that is true, then running is good training for LIFE.

But on a more personal note, running gives me a moment to myself. It improves my body's fitness, function and circulation. It forces me to set aside time to commune and communicate with my body. It burns off anxiety and stress. And by doing all of those things, it helps keep my Crohn’s disease in remission. I started running in February 2012, and I haven’t needed surgery since. So for me, training is part of my treatment.

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? I enjoyed each and every points race. They challenged me to become a better runner pushing me outside of my comfort zone.
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? The most difficult race for me was the Vineyard 5K Trail Race because of all the hours (80 plus) that I had spent clearing and preparing the course for the race prior to race day. This was also the most emotional race for me as I designed this trail.
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? I ran several non-points races to include the Carmel Half Marathon, Father's Day Race, several Night Moves races, Fort 4 Fitness Triple Crown, Columbus Marathon, Veterans Half Marathon, The HUFF, Berkeley Run along the lakes in Madison, WI to name a few.
The most memorable would be the Columbus Marathon where I BQ'd (became a Boston Qualifier)!
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with?
This year there was a plethora of running friends, as I prepared for a marathon.
The LSD runs included many runners but one special friend stands out. After doing her long run the day before, she met me for my long run the next day. She ran half the distance and then biked alongside me for the other half. Thank you Ashley Anglin!
I became a more efficient runner because of Chad Vannatta and Lisa Falotico who kept me accountable during the Tempo and SS runs.
Thanks to Bill Harris and Dave Edsall for those Recovery Runs at 5am!
3 Rivers Running Coach Mike Else who prepared my 18-week training plan.
And on race day, my angel, Jenniffer Jordan ran by my side with encouraging words all the way to that finish line!
What do you enjoy most about distance running? It would be the personal experiences and relationships I've been blessed with.  Runners focus on the good. When you fall they are there to pick you up. When you want to stop they grab your hand and say, "Let's do this!"

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? I would say the River City Rat Race because my grand-daughter and her best friend decided to run with me. It was a great atmosphere and the girls really enjoyed themselves.
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? The WOOF Trail Run was the hardest. I think it would have actually been a fun race but I got lazy in regard to training in the last few weeks before the race so was not prepared for the tough grind. Have no-one to blame but myself.
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? No, it didn't run any non-points races this year.
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? Actually, I run alone. I enjoy the time that it offers for thinking, reflecting, and praying.  
What do you enjoy most about distance running? The simplest answer is that I just enjoy running. Beyond that, it brings out that competitive desire to improve in terms of speed and distance.

??Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? I enjoyed the Rat Race because of the scenery along the way, the perfect weather and a fun finish at the Fort. Runners on Parade is also always a good time, with so many runners and a supportive crowd that watches.
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? Without a doubt, the WOOF was my biggest challenge. I was running with a sore calf and by the time I finished the last half of the final loop, the roots tripped me up, not once, but 4 times. I felt fortunate to be able to finish. 
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? The race that is near and dear to my (and husband, Chuck's) heart: the Run It Walk It for Chris Brown 5k, which has been held for 8 years to remember and celebrate the life of our son Chris, and to raise funds for the Chris Brown Memorial Scholarship, which is annually awarded to an IPFW male cross country runner. This year we were able to finish on the indoor track. It was awesome!
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? I would love to run with my husband, Chuck, but I'm much too slow for him. I run with my music, and that's all I need to keep me going.
What do you enjoy most about distance running? I enjoy setting goals and training to meet them. There is such a sense of accomplishment after a first 10k, half marathon and last year, my first marathon. The thrill of that finish is just incredible. I also enjoy the health benefits, both physical and psychological. My son, Chris, is my inspiration. I never understood how anyone could love to run, until it got into my blood, too. Now, I cannot imagine ever stopping!

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why?  Pink Ribbon Run 4 Mile. I'm a nurse so it was something that is dear to my heart.
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? Woof Race. I stressed all year over it. But in the end I loved it. Loved the location the weather and the fact I did it.
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? Indy mini. Loved the atmosphere.
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? Me myself and God. We do a lot of talking on my runs. I have been thru a lot of changes over the past year. And running has become my go to thing to talk with God and to know we got this. But I want to say without my running buddy Cristal I would be lost. And Greg for always telling me you got this even when I was 50 lbs overweight. Without them I wouldn't be where I'm today. Ready to start 2016.
What do you enjoy most about distance running? I started running just in October 2014. And since then I have learned that if I let God lead he has a whole lot of roads and trails to be traveled.

 Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? I enjoyed the Rat Race the most. This was the first race I ever signed up for, and what really motivated me to begin running in the first place, so it's always special. This year it was even more special becuase I got to run the 5k portion with my neighbor's daughter as her running buddy for Girls on The Run and that was her first ever race, and then I got to finish the rest of the race with one of my friends who was running her very first 10k, so it was so great to be able to share that experience with them both! 
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? I would have to say the WOOF was the hardest, because it was a distance "first" for me. Up until that point, my longest run ever was only around 14 miles and I had never attempted more than 10 miles on trails, so it definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone. That was a good thing though!!  
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? I ran the Louisville Derby Half Marathon in the Spring and that was a great experience! A group of us made a road trip out of it and had a great time!
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? I have so many people I enjoy running with that I have met over the past few years. I love how encouraging other runners are and what an amazing running community we have here!
What do you enjoy most about distance running? I enjoy the challenge, both mentally and physically, and the sense of accomplishment of doing something you weren't sure you could do!

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? The points race I enjoyed the most this year was the W.O.O.F. Race day conditions were ideal … crisp fall morning air on a bright and sunny morning in the park. Leaves had fallen on areas of the path making it seem as though you were blazing a new trail as you ran. There was a calm demeanor among all the runners giving you a feeling that we’re all going out for a pleasure run with food and drink afterwards, without even a thought of it being a race. I have always said we have a very friendly and welcoming Running Community in Northeast Indiana.
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why?  As much as I enjoyed the W.O.O.F, I have to admit it was the hardest for me. I don’t do that many trail runs, let alone doing a 16 mile trail run!
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? I typically get some non-points races in, with my favorite being be the Fort-4-Fitness. I have always done the mini-marathon but decided to go for the “triple” this year. The F4F has matured into quite an event with awesome volunteers and great public participation along the way. 
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? Since most of my running is done early in the morning, 5:30 a.m. from the downtown Y, my running buddies are Bill (Marathon Man) Harris and Cynthia (Racing Queen) Cornwell. Now that I think of it, Bill and I have logged in almost 20 years of training runs and running races. I am fortunate. Otherwise, I run alone which gives me some “me” time.
 What do you enjoy most about distance running? I enjoy distance running much more than my knees are allowing me to these days. I find them rejuvenating, energizing, and cathartic all in one. However, I choose to enjoy running "any" distance because there may be a day when I won't be able to.

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? I enjoyed the Rotary 5K the most, because I ran it alongside friends who challenged and encouraged me.
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? The River City Rat Race 10K was the hardest for me mentally because I was struggling with an injury.
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? I ran several non-points races this year, as well, including two half marathons and a full marathon. My favorite was the Glass City Marathon in Toledo. After my first year as an adult running through the winter using a new running program, I was excited to train for and enter an out-of-state race. My goal was to BQ for the first time and I did!
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? 
How can I pick just one favorite person to run with?! Though I almost always run alone, Fort 4 Fitness winners Liz Schloss at Three Rivers Running Company and my neighbor, Lindsay Cordes, are great companions who have helped me take my tempo runs to the next level. Also, I ran with Mike Else's speed training group throughout many weeks of the summer, which made 80- and 90-degree nights on the track infinitely more fun!
What do you enjoy most about distance running? During my competitive school years, I had a love-hate relationship with running. After taking a decade off and having six children, I've recently rekindled my relationship with distance running. It's my quiet time, it's my therapy, it's the one thing in my life that helps me feel whole. Furthermore, it's connected me with amazing people I now call my friends.

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? The Anthony Wayne & Fort Wayne Rotary Clubs 5k because I had a person close to me that had polio. This race was one of the first runs I did when I started running and I was glad that it was part of the series.
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? The WOOF because I literally thought that I was going to die. I am grateful for all the people that helped me get through it.
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? I was really busy this summer with some non-running life stuff and did not get out as much as I would have liked and I had to focus my time on the point races.
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? 
Loaded question! I Judy Tillapaugh started a group at IPFW and she has been the glue keeping us all together and I love running with that core group, but I am grateful for the great people I have met in the running community and all those that have let me hijack their pace. 
What do you enjoy most about distance running?  I like that I am an average person that one day decided to run and the feeling of accomplishment I have each time I cross the finish line. And, I love the Fort Wayne running community that embraces and encourages us average runners.

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? 
There are many races I enjoyed for different reasons. Instead of putting the names of 13 races in a hat and drawing one, I will choose the Turkey Trot 5k because it was the last points race. Also , I've always enjoyed the course, the holiday atmosphere, and free gloves to all participants.
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? 
The Nutri-Run 20k has always been the race I love to hate. This time however, I had the hardest time with the Fanny Freezer 5k because I was fighting a cold.
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? 
In 2015, I ran 11 non-points races. Among my favorites were the Chris Brown Prediction 5k, Kilt Run 5k, Girls on the Run 5k, Freedom Run 5k, Gingerbread Pursuit 4m, and the HUFF 1 loop.
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? 
Because I usually run alone, whoever is running a race with me is my favorite person or group to run with. Hanging out with other runners is a big reason why I race.
What do you enjoy most about distance running?
Running is a good prescription for physical or mental blahs. Peace of mind.​

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? Again, this year, it would still be Runners On Parade. It's just an exciting atmosphere with a large group of runners and a great crowd supporting us.
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? It was the WOOF for sure. It was my longest distance to date and on an unexpectedly dangerous course. I became concerned when I witnessed several talented runners injured from falls. I fell twice on the third loop with Pat B. there to help me up after the second fall. Fortunately no injuries, Fireball shot at the end....thanks Pat!
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? Many many races for the year and two favorite. My youngest son and I ran the Glow run at night in a rain storm (his first race) and my oldest son always joins me for the Galloping Gobbler. It's been our tradition. Next year, all 3 kids have committed to this race! 
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? 
I've been running the Night Moves races with Mike, Amanda and Stacey. Let me tell you these 3 are crazy fun! I'm not sure how this all got started but we have blast and everyone is welcome to join in. You may end up in a costume and silly pictures!
What do you enjoy most about distance running?
Improved health and fitness
Challenging myself
Competition
Friendships, I never imagined that my new hobby would open up this vast group of awesome people and new friendships. For all of this I am very thankful!

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? WOOF trail run - I love the trails and the distance, and I got to help a friend accomplish a goal. Plus the food and beverages after we're great!
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? The hardest for me was the Frontier Run 10k - it was humid and muddy and the double loops are mentally challenging
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite?  Yes, I ran the Fort 4 Fitness Triple Crown and the Indianapolis Marathon. The Indy Marathon was my favorite, as I got to share the experience with some wonderful people, the course was beautiful, and I felt great throughout
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? My run buddies, Molly, Kris, Vicki, Rebecca, Emily, Maureen, and Dottie, and my daughter
What do you enjoy most about distance running? The companionship, the way it keeps me sane and healthy, and the sense of accomplishment

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? I enjoyed the Rat Race the most. It's a great 10k course and it was on a beautiful fall day.
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? The WOOF was the most difficult. 16 miles is the longest I had run on trails, and I started out a little too fast.
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? The Hamilton Lake Road classic was my favorite non-points race. I grew up there and it's nice to go back and run the hills around the lake and see old friends.
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? 
My favorite person to run with is my husband Andrew.
What do you enjoy most about distance running? Being out in the fresh air, knowing that I'm doing something that's healthy. Finding new places to run and getting to see places in a way I would not otherwise get to see them. I also like the challenge of running farther, and the sense of accomplishment I get from finishing a long run.

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? The Fanny Freezer was my favorite. It marks the beginning of a new running year, and I enjoy running in colder weather.

Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? The WOOF Trail Run was the hardest. If you have run it, you know why. Sixteen miles of pain.

Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? No, I focused on points races this year.

Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? I like the Three Rivers Running Company Wednesday running group, where I generally run with Robin Dombrowski.
What do you enjoy most about distance running? I enjoy the people I have met while running. I also enjoy being outdoors, looking at the scenery and letting my mind go free. The calories burned by distance running is an added perk.

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? Runners on Parade
The depth of competition allows for fast times.
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? WOOF
I was dealing with an injury and not training as much so I didn't know how my body would respond. I survived at least!
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite?  I didn't run any non-points races.
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? The Three Rivers Running Company team.
What do you enjoy most about distance running? It's a sport that you can do outside all year for the most part. You can run with other people either casually and/or competitively depending on the day. Overall it's just a great sport that keeps you in shape and provides opportunities to socialize with others.

Lisa Ruefer

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? I would have to say the Vineyard Trail Run. I'm definitely not a fan of trail runs, but this was my hometown race and it was the first race I won in my age group...EVER, so it was very exciting for me!
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? The W.O.O.F. for sure! It was the longest race I had run to date and the fact that it was a trail run made it even more difficult. Ironically, I finished Third Place Masters!
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? I only ran the FWTC points races. I did volunteer at the Parlor City Trot and the Fort Wayne Trailblazer. It's a great way to give back to the sport and I really enjoyed being out there cheering on all the participants!
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? I always love to run with my daughter in law Joelle when our schedules allow it, but I usually run solo. It's my time, my space. I hit the pavement, set my pace, listen to my music,let my thoughts go and do what I love to do...RUN!
What do you enjoy most about distance running? The one thing I enjoy the most about distance running is knowing that with every mile I run it proves to me that I'm capable of more than I ever thought possible. This has never been more true for me than this year. My daughter in law Joelle convinced me I should join the FWTC with her and commit to running all 15 points races and earn the IRONRUNNER award. Goal achieved!

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? The Nutri-Run 20k was my favorite because I had it marked on my calendar all winter as the first distance challenge of the year. It was fulfilling to see my winter training pay off. 
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? The WOOF Trail Run was by far the most challenging. The weather and setting were great, but by the third loop I'd seen all I wanted to see for the day. The smaller field of runners kept me running alone for the last half of it. I was just hoping I didn't get lost.
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? The Arizona Rock n Roll Half was my favorite, it was a great excuse to go to Phoenix in January. 75 degrees, mountain views, challenging but scenic course.
I also ran: Indy Mini, Fort4Fitness Half, Spartan Stadium Sprint at Miller Park, Warrior Dash, Defenders Dash, FW Trails TrailBlazer 10k, Fort Wayne Ribfest 5k, and several others.
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? My beautiful wife, Claire and my friends from the Midwest Vikings!
What do you enjoy most about distance running? Having measurable challenges and accomplishments are a major factor for me. Having never run by choice until a couple of years ago, seeing constant improvement and the positive impact its had on my life and health is extremely rewarding.

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? 
The WOOF. After nearly 6 years of running, I'd never run farther than a half, so being able bang out 16 miles on a trail didn't seem like a real possibility. Completing that race was a huge accomplishment for me. Pretty sure I'm ready for the Olympics now. 
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? The Fanny Freezer. No fannies were frozen that day...in fact, there may have been some Booty Broiling going on. 5ks are not my friend anyway and that day was unseasonable warm. I overheated and had to pull off to the side to keep from getting sick. Note to self: If you overdress and take off too fast, you're gonna have a bad time.
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? The Girls on the Run 5k in downtown Fort Wayne. Such a great organization. The Night Moves runs with Team Neighborlink. Likewise, a great organization. I'm sure there's more but I boiled my brain at the Fanny Freezer...
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? The best friends a runner can have are the kind that tell you you're crazy for wanting to run outside today in the heat or rain or cold...and then ask what time to meet you. I have several friends I run with regularly and I treasure each of them. Rox, Tina, Judy and especially Allyson, who ran every iron runner race right next to me. The experience would not have been the same without her.
What do you enjoy most about distance running?  The friendships. We train together, we complain together, and we get through the tough stuff by talking about all the food we are going to eat when we're done! I love that I don't have to compete with anyone but myself. I'm the least athletic person I know, so team sports are not much fun for me. Running is an individual sport, yet you can be part of a group if you choose to be. I may never place, but I love being in the back...it's where the party's at!   

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why?  JP Jones 10k, because its a good cause, You get a big hamburger at the finish line, and it was the last race this year I did not have the sensation of running on broken glass.
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? The Nutri-run, after having the flu the week prior to the race, and running more than an hour into a state of narcosis. It took a half hour to recover from my efforts, actually I hung, with my face pressed onto a chain link fence so long it left the impression of the links. 
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? I ran the Parlor City Trot. I hoped to finish faster than 1:23:00 but the humidity was the biggest challenge that day.
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? Noble County Runners and Multi-Sport group, Indiana Trail 100 training group, and as George Thorogood would say, Yeah, you know when I run alone I prefer to be by myself. 
I'm kidding, I will run with anyone!
What do you enjoy most about distance running?  Running. Running in general, I am not picky! The races on the other hand, what I enjoy most of all is seeing the children who cheer on the runners, with there hand held up to get a High 5. It's an extra bonus if my Grandchildren are the kido's cheering with their hands up for a High 5! Sometimes I might even get a hug from my grand kids, as long as I am not too sweaty.

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? River City Rat Race - it was the second time I have ran the race and it is just a beautiful course of downtown Fort Wayne and we had a perfect day to run it! Other favorites would be the Frontier Run, also awesome course, and New Haven 10k!
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? The WOOF was definitely the most intimidating race of the year not only because of the distance but also a trail run. We had a fabulous day and I was running a great pace then I guess I was totally in the zone that I got lost! So, my longest run ever of 15.9 miles turned in to over 17 miles! Regardless, I finished and knowing I can complete 17 miles, has given me even more motivation to sign up for my first marathon next year!
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? The only non-points race I did was the Tough Mudder 2015 in Lexington, Ohio. It was over 10 miles endurance plus TOUGH obstacles! That was the day I found out I was capable of MUCH more than I ever thought - climbing to heights, diving in to muddy waters, plunging in to ice cold water and finding strength (especially upper body) I never knew I had! I completed this obstacle course with two of my co-workers and my husband was cheering me on all the way! All of this after completing the Pink Ribbon 4 Miler, which I actually won for my age division thanks to Hidi Gaff being the fastest woman ever :)
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? Thanks to FWTC I have been able to meet tons of runners in our community! I truly love to be part of a club that pushes each other yet supports and encourages like we do. It's not a competition but rather a club that has scheduled times and places to meet and do what we love, RUN and celebrate TOGETHER. My favorite person to run and/or just take a nice long stroll with is my one and only Mother-In-Law. She is my sounding board and personal trainer all-in-one, who could ask for more?

What do you enjoy most about distance running?  Distance running gives me time to think, my alone time. Sometimes I reminisce on the past, wonder about the future, pray for the moment and moments to come and just thank my Lord he has given me the strength to do what I love. Most of all, I have my parents to thank for asking me every time I walk in their door after a run 'how far'd you go Jo?', or being at my finish line, makes me push myself just a bit harder every time.

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? The point’s race that I enjoyed the most despite the bitterly cold weather was probably the Vineyard 5K. It’s a very challenging trail course and my third time running it and I finally PR’d on it. I love the atmosphere and enjoying the complimentary wine post-race with my running friends.
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? The The WOOF trail course was by far my most challenging race this season. I was just a few weeks post Marathon and recovering from injuries. I was not ready for the long distance let alone it being all trails. It was as tough as running a marathon but I managed to persist even through a couple of falls.
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? There were a few non points races that I really enjoyed running this year. My favorites were the Fort For Fitness Triple Crown and the Nationwide Children’s Hospital marathon in Columbus, OH. The Fort for Fitness has always been a favorite of mine since it is local and you see so many familiar faces along the course cheering you on. Completing the triple was a big accomplishment as well. The Columbus marathon was a very emotional one for me for many reasons. I ran my first marathon last year for my best friend who had just been diagnosed with cancer. This year she passed away and I ran this one in honor of her. The race supports such a great cause and I got to high five all the champion patients along the course. It was the best feeling ever. On top of that I PR’d by a land slide and beat my goal by 5 minutes.
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? I love running with my Fleet Feet family. I have gained so many good friends through the group. I even met my best friend and love of my life, John Ferrara, through Fleet Feet’s running group. He has been my number one supporter. Another great friend is Adam Dyer who has pushed me though all the races and accompanied many fun car rides to the races. He has been my running buddy through it all. I also had the chance to help coach a young boy on the Woodside Cross Country team this year. Running with him and watching him grow as a runner was an amazing feeling.

What do you enjoy most about distance running?  Distance running is all about overcoming fears and mental blocks. It is pushing your body to its limits and new accomplishments. I hated running as a kid and every time I do a distance run I have such a feeling of pride. Every time I add more distance I am overcoming obstacles and proving that all things are possible.

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why?
I think my favorite one was the Nutri-Run 20k. It was a challenge but I was extremely happy when I learned I won 2nd place in my age group!!
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why?
I think one of the hardest races for me was the Frontier Run 10k. It was my 5th weekend in a row of running in a race and it was very hot and humid that day. I felt like I had nothing left in me to complete that race.
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? This has been an amazing year of running for me as I have completed a total of 22 races this year! My favorite being my first Full Marathon in the Indianapolis Full! It was truly a perfect experience in every way! ​
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? My favorite run buddy is Molly Bernard and my dog Dottie of course! :) But I also love running with all my amazing run buddies, Emily Benard, Rebecca Bell, Vicki Shade, Kelsey Hudson and many more!
What do you enjoy most about distance running? The amazing accomplishment of doing something I have always dreamed of doing. When I run long distance it is ALWAYS with Molly Bernard and my dog Dottie and we make it "fun and adventurous"! I love taking pictures while on a long run too.

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? The Turkey Trot was my favorite because it was the last race of the series! I remember feeling so good during that race, knowing I was just a few minutes away from being an Ironrunner!
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? The W.O.O.F. was the longest and toughest course I have ever done. It challenged me both mentally and physically, but I was determined to complete all of the races - so I was going to finish even if I had to crawl to the end!
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? I participated in some of the races that were part of the Night Moves running series (put on by Team Neighborlink). They were SO much fun, and it was a great opportunity for me to get to run through parts of Fort Wayne that I had never seen before. The volunteers were incredible - they did such a fantastic job of manning the route for runners so we felt safe.
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? I have met some great people in our running community, but my usual 'partners in crime' are Tina Grady, Roxanne Kingsbury, Shawn Peterson, and Judy Tillapaugh. Judy definitely deserves a special shout out because she's the one who started a running group at the IPFW campus which helped me connect with other runners.
What do you enjoy most about distance running?  It is such a great stress reliever. If I'm running alone I will just put on some good music and relax, and if I'm with friends we can share some laughs to help pass the time. I love challenging myself and tracking my progress. Nothing beats that euphoric high you get after you complete a run and realize that you have achieved a new personal record!

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? I enjoyed the Run for Riley the most. I ran with a Riley patient I have known since she was 3. She is now 14 and this is the first year she felt good enough to run with me. Crossing the finish line with Aleigha meant the most to me.
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? The W.O.O.F. because it was 16 miles of trail running. I tripped on roots, sticks, stones, you name it. I was a mess after.
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite? I only had time to run points races.
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? the only way I finished the W.O.O.F. was because of my friend Mindy Kinder. She is always, always there for me. I can't thank her enough for all that she has done.
What do you enjoy most about distance running?  I get my "Forest Gump" on and just lose myself in my steps, my thoughts, the scenery. It's alone time. 

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why?  Strangely, the WOOF Trail Run. It was a beautiful day, and it went well for me.

Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? The Mastodon Stomp just did NOT go well for me: I took off too fast.
Did you run any non-points races this year, and if so which was your favorite?  My goal race for the year was the Fort4Fitness Half Marathon.
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? 
I ran a lot with the Wednesday night running group at Three Rivers Running Company, who are great. There's a wide selection of paces, and great people.
What do you enjoy most about distance running?  This is my mood-altering method of choice. I always feel a lot better after a good run, and I even feel better after a bad run.

Which Points Race did you enjoy the most and why? I really enjoyed the Vineyard 5k! It was a very challenging trail but an amazing overall experience complete with a wine slushy and live music!
Which Points Race was the hardest for you and why? The frontier 10k was the most challenging race for me honestly due to the humidity!
Did you run any non-points races and if so which was your favorite? I ran the Derby half and the Indianapolis Marathon. I would have to say the Indy full was my favorite because it was my first full marathon, I ran it with some amazing friends and it was absolutely gorgeous!
Who is your favorite person or group to go for a run with? I love my running buddies!! I run daily with Kris Saylor and also run with Emily Bernard(my sister), Kelsy Hudson and Rebecca Bell. AWESOME ladies!
What do you enjoy the most about distance running? I love the peace of mind it gives me as well as the time to bond with running buddies! It also give me a great sense of accomplishment in something that I never thought I would ever do.