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Tracey is a runner whose name I had often seen on Twitter, but with whom I wasn’t acquainted. After a couple tweets and emails though, I soon was standing in Bay View, looking out over downtown Milwaukee, as Tracey ran towards me.
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+How old are you? 35
+How long have you been running? About 6 years. I started running (on the treadmill) leading up to my 30th birthday. Once I got going, it spiraled out of control! With every milestone I achieved, I kept thinking “Can I go farther/faster/longer? Yes.”
+Why do you run? So many reasons. I like pushing myself physically. I like being alone with my thoughts. I like the friendships it has brought me. I like the feeling of accomplishment. I like feeling the air moving in and out of my lungs. I like being able to eat what I want.
+What is the hardest part of running for you? That is a good question. When I started I used to compare myself to other runners a lot and that can be tough. Over the years though, those feelings have changed, and now I get my inspiration from faster runners and it fuels me to train harder. I mean, there’s always going to be someone better than you, right? You might as well get used to it.
+Do you do other sports/athletics? I love strength and conditioning training. Kettlebells are my favorite! I got my personal trainer certification this year and I really enjoy teaching bootcamps and coaching others. I also was a dance major in college, so that is technically my first love. I still try to take classes when I get the time. The feeling I get when dancing is very similar to running at times. I love them both.
+What sort of distances do you run, and which do you like best? They’re all so different! I run everything from 5K to 50 miles. I just finished my 3rd 50 miler a few weeks ago! My favorite distance to race though is the half-marathon. I feel like I’m really good at that distance. I do love the marathon distance as well. I just ran a PR at Chicago Marathon and I’m hoping to eventually qualify for Boston in the next few years. I can’t believe I’m saying this.
+What is your favorite post-run snack? First chocolate milk. Then beer. It’s pretty perfect.
+What part of Milwaukee do you find most enjoyable to run in, and why? I run mostly in Bay View by the lakefront. I love how peaceful it is down here. Other times I drive up to Lake Park and run by down by the Art Museum and out to the red lighthouse. When I run trails I make the trip out to Lapham Peak in Delafield. It’s the best.
+For anyone just starting to run, do you have any tips to share to? Start slow. Don’t compare yourself to others. Set goals. Have fun!