Page 9 - Senior Times South Central Michigan - July 2016 - 23-07

big challenge at my age because the body just doesn't adapt as quickly as it used too. Injuries are no fun either, but with perseverance, I have learned to get through those, and so far mine have been aggravating but minor and have resolved without interrupting my training and races. I also don't like crowded starts, so I go to the front, even though other runners will pass me. They probably laugh at the old lady at the front of the pack but
who cares."
Ann has found mentorship through
the local Battle Creek running com- munity. "I joined KAR in Battle Creek early on because I knew I would need motivators and people who had much more knowledge than I did about running. Kevin Rabineau, Eric Campbell and Matt Santner are
my mentors. When we do speed work, I only see their backs as they dash ahead of me, but they have shared their experience, their knowledge, funny stories, and taught me that running is not just about being fast, but testing your physical and mental limits, sharing a passion with others, becoming stronger as a whole person, and learning about yourself in a way that only running can reveal."
Ann is inspired as a runner on three different levels. She does not have to look far to find inspiration within her family. "Initially I found inspiration from our son Travis. He ran cross- country and played soccer, so he was always running. He, his girlfriend Alyssa, and her mom Penny were run- ning races, having fun, getting good swag, and I got curious if I could do the same."
Her daughter has also given Ann inspiration with her ongoing perse- verance. "I also am inspired by our daughter Kelsey. She struggles with epilepsy but doesn't let it dominate her life. She has graduated with two bachelor degrees, just got married this summer and is a great example of perseverance and achieving goals."
She is also inspired by those who overcome challenges to enjoy being athletes. "I have to say I am inspired by Special Olympic athletes who run just for sheer joy. I am inspired by others with physical challenges such as wounded Veterans and wheelchair racers who don't let physical limitations be an excuse to check out on life."
Ann admires those who run as professionals as well. "Deena Kastor and Mebrahtom ‘Meb’ Keflezighi are my professional inspirations. They are incredible athletes, mentors, and great advocates for the sport of running."
Ann has become a great recruiter for our sport, bringing her husband on board. "I am married to my wonder- ful husband Gary, 28 years and going strong. I finally cajoled Gary into run- ning and he is doing great. He is also
a member of KAR in Battle Creek. He is also my support on the long runs when I train for half
marathons, riding his bike
alongside to make sure I'm safe and have hydration."
Ann has plenty of words of advice for other runners. "Take care of your feet – seriously! Invest in good shoes and insoles because it can mean
the difference between comfort and misery. Run in the winter; it teaches you that you can endure just about anything. Also, cross train, it pre- vents injuries. Never underestimate your strength and your ability to push boundaries. Don't race other runners, race yourself and for your goals. If you finish well, great, but always enjoy the run, the scenery, and what you learn each time. Also, look for support, because even though running seems like a solitary endeavor, it's not. When you hurt, you're going to need encouragement, when you don't feel like training, you're going to need a push to keep going, so find the people that will help you find the motivation to go forward. Give other runners congratulations, encouragement, high fives, and cheer for them at the finish. They ran a mile(s) no matter what their pace, so they are winners too."
Self-confidence, attitude and per- ception are a huge when it comes to anything in life. You can posses all the raw ability in the world but if you are not into something mentally then you will not enjoy it let alone excel in it. For years Ann never thought of herself as a runner. When she finally got over this hump and realized that she did fit the mold she found suc- cess as a competitive runner but more importantly she has come to embrace herself as a runner.
Everyone has a story. Stay tuned next month for another runner’s story.
Publisher’s Note: The Miles for Memories signature event will be held Saturday, September 17 in downtown Battle Creek. Come out and walk, run or stroll to help impact dementia in our community. For more information please visit www.scenepub.com/miles- formemories.
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Senior Times - July 2016
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