Part of a series of runner profiles we’ll be featuring throughout the summer

You have to walk the walk if you want to talk the talk.

At the beginning of the 2015 NY Marathon, before I entered a 9-mile pain cave

That was the thought running through my head as I made a commitment to manage my mom’s soundRUNNER stores after college. Running was something I did not quite understand, unless it had something to do with a sport or getting away from something.

I went through the motions by joining the beginning running program through the store. At first, I told myself and everyone around me that I would never run more than five miles.

Fast-forward 10 years…I have completed many 5Ks, 5 milers, 10 milers, a few relay races, a half marathon and a full marathon. I can say at this point, I really do enjoy running and I never thought I would.

Why do I run? There are so many reasons. I love the gear, I love the relationships I have been able to build, I love how I can explore my surroundings, I love the time, I love the competition, I love the end.

At the end of the day, I run because I can. Because others can’t. I run because it makes me feel good. Even on those days that I think it is going to be the worst run ever, 90% of the time I am happy I made the trek.

I love the friendships I’ve made through running

To me, it is the easiest sport to participate in. All you need is a pair of kicks and road to run on.

My mindset has gone through a 360 since my youthful days of making fun of my mom for running. Now I am thankful she has given me the opportunity to be part of something that has changed me forever.

RELATED CONTENT: [Why Do I Run: Katie’s Story] [Why Do I Run: Kathy’s Story] [Why Do I Run: Ailish’s Story] [Why Do I Run: Joe’s Story]