Member spotlight: J.L.

This month in our member spotlight, we want you to meet J.L.!

Tell us a little bit about yourself

I am relatively new to running I would say. I started participating in Run Waterloo races in 2018 when I was encouraged by my co-workers, who are Run Waterloo members, to sign up with them. I was new to the office and it was a great way to get to know them outside of work. We still sign up for races together often and we always enjoy rooting for each other and meeting up at races. 

Talk about your getting involved with Run Waterloo

My middle son Alex ran the Santa Pur-suit race back when he was in the 6th grade and made the paper. It was about 4 years ago and his participation was my first exposure to the Run Waterloo community. He still has the article clipping of that day tucked away in his room.  

When I joined Run Waterloo, it was to get back into running after years of not running and I was very reluctant. I used running as a way to motivate me to get back in shape as well as to be cigarette free. In my first year of quitting, I shaved 14 minutes off my 5k finish time and I haven’t had a cigarette since. 

What are your favourite parts about running and RW?

Running for me is about time spent with friends and for mental and physical health. I like nothing more than a meeting up with a friend for an outdoor run and a good chat. Running helps release the stresses of the day and is my way to self-care.

The thing I like most about being a Run Waterloo member is the sense of community and support I feel. I’m not the fastest runner but I enjoy it and I always have a good time. Seeing Run Waterloo volunteers and fellow members cheer you on throughout the races, especially when you feel like slowing down or giving up, is amazing and it helps motivates me to keep pushing myself. 

Can you share a recent running highlight?

Last October I ran the Scotiabank half marathon in Toronto with two girlfriends. Participating in that race was one of the toughest things I’ve ever done but training for it all summer was so rewarding and I am so proud that I finished it. 

Thanks so much for sharing that J.L.. Let’s quickly pivot to some lessons you’ve learned.

Don’t compare yourself to others! Enjoy the run, notice how it makes you feel and just have fun. All that matters is that you did it! On race days I usually arrive early and take in the events, I usually meet up with my coworkers/friends that are members and we cheer each other on! We enjoy the after race snacks and the feeling of accomplishment.

How are you holding up over the past few months?

I just enjoy staying active and spending time with friends. My goal was to find a hobby now that I have three teenagers that don’t want as much of my spare time. I have always enjoyed running but I had never participated in any races outside the ones I mentioned previously. Joining Run Waterloo gave me a reason to run more often. I particularly like the member stats and page where I can see my personal improvement over time. My goal in 2019 year was to earn the hoodie and I did! So proud of that.

My current goal for fitness and running is to do something daily whether it be a quick treadmill run on my lunch, following a guided work out or stretch on an app, or joining my friend’s Zoom sessions. 

Last: what is your next race?

Well … my next race will be the next virtual one available! 

Needless to say, we can’t wait until the next race! Thanks J.L.!