Coach Gretchen

What motivated you to become a runner?
I joke that my mom brainwashed me, as she ran a half marathon 6 weeks before I was born! Jokes aside, she would push my brother and me in the stroller while she ran every day. As we got mobile, she started having us run with her. She signed me up for my first 5K when I was 3, and when she saw that I could do it, she never let us miss another fun-run! Watching her complete half and full marathons inspired me to train for them as I got older. Now we enjoy going new places and doing races together!

What is your favorite race distance?
Half Marathon 

What was your favorite race or running event?
Grand Teton Half Marathon in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. You can't beat running alongside the Tetons!

What are your goals for 2019?
I'd like to run more races in 2019. I also want to complete a sub-4 hour marathon.  

What is your favorite post-race meal?
Anything I can find! 

During a race, what is the food at an aid station that makes you retch? 
I'm not a big fan of gel snacks!

What do you tell yourself for motivation as you run up the steepest hills?  
It doesn't matter how you finish, just finish!

What is your favorite running inspirational quote?
"If it doesn't challenge you, it won't change you" - Fred DeVito

What is your favorite running shoe?
Hoka Hupana 

Do you prefer trucker hats or mesh hats or no hat for running and why?
No hat! I'm weird and don't like things on my head when I run. 

Do you prefer running on roads or trails and why? 
I like running on both! Just depends on how I'm feeling that day.

What is your biggest reason you continue to run?
I love the challenge, both mentally and physically, that I get from running. It also keeps me healthy, which is important to me.