Tell us a little about yourself (kids, married, job)?
My name is Liz. I am a runner in my mid 30s. I am married to my husband, Matt Schmoll. Fun fact, he proposed at the end of my first 50 mile race! We have no human babies but we have 3 amazing fur babies. Charlie, my 13 year old Jack Russell, Fred our one eyed rescue poodle/bichon mix who is around 6 years old. And our newest addition, Ginger who is a rescue terrier mix and roughly 2 years old. We also work with a rescue as a foster home for dogs on occasion. I work a full time job in the fashion industry and am also a running coach, personal trainer and nutrition coach on the side.
When and why did you start running?
I started running right after college after a bad breakup. My brother and his wife signed up for a couch to 5k program and asked me to join. As it usually goes, everything snowballed from there.
What keeps you motivated to train?
Running has become a form of therapy to me. It has gotten me through some of my darkest hours. I lost my mom suddenly at the age of 26 and running was there for me in a way no one else could be. I am also a competitive person by nature and being able to push my own body and limits is something that motivates me.
What are your hobbies outside of running?
Dogs lol. I also love reading and cooking. On my off days, going on a long walk with a great podcast in my ears is one of my favorite activites. Interior design is also a personal passion of mine.
What is your favorite race?
Avalon 50/50 on Catalina island! But mostly because I got engaged at the end of that race 😊
What is your bucket list event?
For now, finishing a 100k is my bucket list. The goal is this October.
What is the funniest thing to happen to you during a race?
Hmmm, not sure!
What is your proudest race moment?
Finishing my first 50 mile was a very proud moment for me.
What is the one thing you wish you knew when you first started running?
How important strength training truly is to longevity in the sport.
What is your best piece of advice for new runners?
To have fun and don’t compare yourself to others. Also, slow down on your easy days. This is something I am still learning to harness myself but it really does make a world of a difference!