Get to know Mel C.

How long have you been involved with running?
I started running with my mother in the sixth grade.   

What got you involved with running?
My mother begged me to run a half mile with her one morning.  Then, she and my father started a running club with their friends, the RUN-A-MUCKS.  I was hooked early on.

How many days a week do you usually run?
3 – 5 depending on my goals or non-goals at the time.
What is the greatest distance you have raced?

The full Ironman

What is one of your most memorable race/ event and what made it so special?
The most special race was my first marathon. I was 16 and the race was in Outawa Canada.  It was an all women’s race to celebrate title 9 in the early 80s.  It’s very memorable for me because it was so very painful and it was a goal I didn’t know if I could complete.  Once it was over I cried like a baby.  I have never been so happy to finish a race.  My parents and sister were there and that made it so very special.
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Do you always enjoy going out for a run?
Almost always but there those days where some self-talk was required. 
 
What are some of the things that gets you out the door when you really don’t feel like going out on a run?
This situation usually only occurs when I’m in training for an “A” race.  Meaning, unless I have a race in front of me I simply won’t run if I don’t feel like it.  But when I must,  I think about how I want to do well in the race that I’m training for.  How I want to be in good shape for the race. 

What are you working towards currently in your workouts?
After Derry 16 miler I want to strike a good balance of run, bike, swim and weights.   

What are some of you long term running goals?
My long-term goals with run, bike, swim are to stay as injury free as possible. I want to be able to enjoy endurance sports forever!

Can you share something about an obstacle you had to overcome and how you managed to get over it?
There have been many obstacles.  I remember stressing hugely because I couldn’t get in my run and swim before work. There just wasn’t enough time. I decided I had to get up WAY earlier in order to get everything done.  That is when I began to rise before 4:30 AM!

How long have you been a member of GNRC?
I am one of the 3 founders of the club so have been there since the beginning.  Although my participation has been spotty because of my triathloning, I am extremely grateful to have this special group of people in my life and hope to participate more this year.  I’ll be hosting a breakfast run this April. 

 What are some of the things you enjoy about being a member of GNRC?
Staying in touch with the friends I have made.  Running and gabbing is always a treat. I also appreciate the motivation that present as a group.

In what ways has the club made a difference in your running?
I feel lucky to have people around me that are social and motivating. It makes running very enjoyable.