Tell us a little about yourself (kids, married, job)? Hi, I’m Laura! I am 36 and have lived in upstate NY my whole life. I am currently Director of Clinical Operations for a busy health clinic in my area and am also in school to get my RN license. In my spare time I run (of course), hike the Adirondack Mountains, do Crossfit, bake, and take care of my pets (1 horse – Bourbon, 1 dog – Dina, 5 guinea pigs – Stella, Luna, Vivi, Gigi, and Kenny). I like being busy so I figured I should add in ultramarathon training as well 😉
When and why did you start running? I started running in early adulthood in order to get in shape. I ended up loving it and wanted to see how far I could go!
What keeps you motivated to train? I like to test my physical ability and see how far I can push my limit. I like a challenge!
What are your hobbies outside of running? I guess I already answered this above, but hiking, crossfitting, baking, and taking care of my animals!
What is your favorite race? I really love Old Forge Marathon in Old Forge, New York. Small, low key race in the Adirondack foothills in early fall. Also the Lake Placid Classic – you can’t beat a half marathon in the Adirondack High Peaks in peak fall foliage!
What is your bucket list event? I don’t have a specific event, but I would love to run out west someday. Colorado/Wyoming/Montana/Utah…they all look amazing!
What is your proudest race moment? Finishing NYC marathon! Admittedly, I prepared poorly the day before and morning of, and had an awful race. I almost quit at mile 21 but after a good cry and a stop in the medical tent, my friend and I rallied and crossed the finish line teary eyed, exhausted, and proud!
What is the one thing you wish you knew when you first started running? The importance of fueling properly! I initially began running to lose weight and did not eat properly to sustain my effort, which impacted my ability to recover and improve. What is your best piece of advice for new runners? Listen to your body! I ran through injury and pushed myself too hard to keep up with people I considered “real runners”. If you run, you’re a real runner – support your body and it will return the favor!