My running with Round Rock Fit started in the fall of 2014, when my gym trainer suggested I consider joining the group to help me reach my overall fitness goals. I had no plans to run in timed events of any length. During the first morning’s run of two miles, I considered quitting; frankly, I was struggling. Coach Mika paced me through to the “win,” though, and I’ve been going ever since. My first season I participated in several runs in the 5K to 10K length, and also ran my first two half-marathons: Disney ’15, and Austin ’15. All the coaches and participants encouraged me throughout that season, and we all became a family of supportive runners. By the next edition several coaches suggested I try out the Reds, “just to see if you like it.” I thoroughly enjoyed that training, though I was still convinced that a marathon was out of my reach. During my second season I ran several shorter events, eight half-marathons, and I completed my first full marathon: the Austin. I also completed the Austin Distance Challenge, a total of six events that included shorter and longer runs. For my third season I committed to the Disney World Marathon Dopey Challenge, and I finished it! I’m pleased and honored to be the walking coach of the group in 2022-2023. I look forward to helping others reach their running and fitness goals, injury-free. My motto: “If I can do it, you can do it!”