Why do I run? I run for a myriad of reasons.  I run for the feeling of satisfaction I get after a hard workout.  I run to experience the sights and sounds of nature.  And I run to see how fast my body can be.

In 1992, I walked on to the University of Montana track team with PR's of 20+ minutes for the 5k and 42+ minutes for the 10k.  I doubted that I was good enough to make the team, but I gave it a shot anyway.  Within a few weeks, the hard training helped me lower my times by minutes.  I was shocked and thrilled by my success.

After graduation, I worked full-time as a RN for 4 years, but I discovered that running and working fulltime were not conducive, especially when I began to compete at a higher level.  My husband and I decided that I should take full advantage of my running opportunities by training fulltime, so I stopped working as a RN.  It has taken a total commitment for me to start reaching toward my racing goals.  Focusing my energy on running has kept my times dropping.

My running career has blossomed since I became determined to maximize my ability.  In 1999, I competed in USATF Indoor National Championships.  I will never forget the butterflies I felt as the ESPN camera was in my face as I was toeing the starting line next to Olympic runners.

In 2000, I dabbled in Summer Biathlon (running combined with marksmenship).  Fast running earned me an expenses paid trip, as part of the US entourage, to the Czech Republic and to Russia for the world championships.  There I was part of the relay team that earned US's first ever bronze medal.

Since then, I have qualified for and competed in the 10,000 meters at four successive USATF Outdoor National Championships.  I have traveled with the USA National Team to China and South Korea for Ekiden Relays;  to Turkey for the World Championships for Mountain Running and traveled to Africa for the Worlds Richest Mountain Race.

Fall 2002, I was one of six athletes selected to train with Team USA in Mammoth Lakes, CA for one month.  USATF paid for my transportation, lodging and gave me a daily stipend.  I lived in a luxury condo at 8000 feet.  Coach Vigil spent countless hours teaching us his training philosophies.  Deena Kastor was also very eager to answer my questions.  She demonstrated for me her resistance training and plyometric programs.

My future plans are to qualify for a World Championships marathon team. I also would like  to run faster than 33 minutes for the 10000m.  That would match my 5,000 meters from 2002  when I broke the 16 minute barrier.  Both of those minute barriers have been immediate goals of mine. I also strongly desire to place top 5 at the World Mountain Trophy in the next 4 years.

My husband, Ray and I currently live in Deer Lodge, MT.  In addition to running, I work part time as a certified personal trainer and online running coach.  I coach aspiring athletes as well as fitness enthusiasts.  I really get a great deal of satisfaction from helping other athletes reach their personal fitness goals.

Coaching others helps my own training because I continually study breaking research and training theory.  My improvements and those of my athletes have taught me that our bodies can do so much more than our minds can conceive.  All you need is desire, a plan and a dream.

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