Amanda J. - Castle Rock, CO

Why did you start running?

I’ve always had a secret aspiration to be athletic. Growing up, I was considered a ‘girly girl,’ and never worked out until I met my now husband. On our second date, he invited me to do a 5k with him. I had never run before in my life, but I was head over heels, so I blurted out “That sounds like fun!” The race was pretty painful and pathetic, and I struggled to walk/jog the three miles. But looking back, we laugh together about that day. I’m now a half-marathon finisher!

What makes you go run?

Crossing the finish line of my first half marathon was one of the most empowering feelings I have ever experienced. I went from not being able to run one mile to running 13.1 miles in only nine weeks. To conquer the goals you set for yourself is amazing! I now continue to run for my family, my husband and our future children. I want to live a long healthy life.

Fun fact. . .

I have signed up to run my second half marathon this September. My current running goals are to work on my speed and to beat my time from my first half marathon. I am an advocate for healthy living and eating at home. I work to find my way around the kitchen so I can provide healthy meals for my family.