Road Runner Girl: Runner Spotlights #118

I hope everyone is having a great weekend! I had a super fun time at my race yesterday! I'll recap it for you later this week! :-)

It's time for another runner spotlight...my favorite time of the week! I love reading other runners' stories about their running journey! If you are interested in being spotlighted on my blog please email me at mindy@roadrunnergirl.com! I'd love to spotlight you! You don't have to have a blog to be spotlighted...you just have to be a runner! ;-)

Today I'm spotlighting Amy! Keep reading to learn more about her and her running journey!

Name: Amy Thomas
State: Ohio

When and why did you start running?
I started running about 8 years ago. A friend wanted to sign up for a training program at a local running store and she talked me into going with her. The only time I've not been running the past 8 years was during pregnancies and injuries.

What is your favorite race and race distance?
My favorite race is The Reindeer Romp. It is held in the area where I went to elementary school and the money raised helps to provide toys to kids from my elementary school. I'm a 5k'er. I did a 10k this past May and it was okay.

What is your race day routine?
The day before my race I have to pick up my packet. I can't stand in line doing that the day of the race. I set all of my clothes out the night before and if the run is chip timed the chip is secured to my shoe as well. I eat a banana and yogurt with granola -- right now I'm eating Fage 0% with Honey and Bear Naked Original Granola. I always hit the bathroom multiple times before I leave because I really don't like using the port o lets!

What is your most favorite piece of running gear?
This is tough -- I'm going to have to say it's a tie between my armpocket (holds my keys, road id, and iPhone) as well as the RunKeeper app. I love to see my mileage after I finish the run (or event).

Do you follow any diet or take any specific supplements that complement your running?
Lately, I'm trying to eat healthier and be more aware of my calorie intake. I was focused on this months ago but wasn't seeing any results on the scale. I am participating in several challenges this month (September) in an effort to get back on track.

What do you wish you’d known when you first started running?
I wish I had known how addictive running actually is!

What is your fondest running memory?
My fondest memory is actually a recent one. On August 23rd, my daughter, who is 2 1/2, "ran" her first race - the Little Princess Run as part of the Lady Tutu 5k series. I made matching tutus for us. She got a wand and tiara and practiced running in the house for days before the actual event. I was that mom videoing the entire 70 yard "run." She even has an official race photo. I then walked with both of my kids (the boy is 10mths old) in the double jogger with a friend I hadn't seen in ages -- we had a great time! I want my kids to see that being active is fun and I want to instill this in them early.

What is one thing that most people do not know about you?
That I used to be a parole officer -- everyone is shocked when I tell them!

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?
I'm excited that I'm signed up as a Solemate for Girls on the Run in Cincinnati. I'm running the Queen Bee 4 Miler on October 11th and I'm raising money to provide scholarships for girls in the program. I have coached with Girls on the Run multiple times and I love the program!