On top of that, Salina is currently working towards a graduate degree at her alma mater and consistently training for her next event.
She went from being hesitant to run to crossing the finish line of a 50k ultra marathon! Here’s the full story…
Why did you start running?
I started running when my son’s coach in high school would not allow any parents attend practice. As horrified as it was to me initially, I started running while my son was at practice to kill time. Eventually I felt brave enough to run my first race which was the Pensacola Beach Run 10k in 2012. After running through the finish line, I was hooked! Soon the 10k became a 15k; and the 15k became a half marathon; half became full; and a 50k Ultra…sure, why not!
How has Running Wild helped you reach your goals?
My introduction to Running Wild was when I signed up for the marathon training program. Running Wild sowed the seeds of my running tomorrow. The support, the education, and most of all the friends I have made from this experience are priceless. Running Wild gave me an opportunity to meet some wonderful friends and through this network I have learned to grow and improve not just in running, but in myself, in my confidence (which I use to have none) and to be brave enough to just go for it; to crawl out of my shell and try new things and take on challenges. I have learned to be a better person because of these awesome Phat Girlz! I have also learned that it’s okay to fall sometimes but to never give up. During these times, it is good to be a spectator on the sidelines supporting and cheering your fellow runners. And above all, I have learned that you must enjoy what you are doing. I enjoy running and I don’t ever want to lose sight of that enjoyment.
What was your favorite thing about training with Running Wild?
My favorite thing about training with Running Wild is that I was provided with the a-to-z on all I need to run a race.
What is your greatest (most favorite) athletic/running accomplishment to date and why?
My greatest running accomplishment is when I had the privilege to pace one of the marathon training groups. It was the most rewarding experience ever.
TOP 5 Products from Running Wild to help you achieve success?
1.Toe Socks- Protect my toes and reduce the number of bruised toes and blisters.
2. Oiselle shorts- Lots of zippered pockets! It doesn’t fix memory loss but as long as you did put your key it in that pocket, it will stay there.
3.Moving Comfort Urban X-Over bra-has hooks so that I do not have to struggle with pulling my wet bra over my head any more.
4. Amphipod water bottle- my security blanket.
5.Mizuno Wave Riders- I love Mizunos!
What is your next athletic goal and how do you plan to reach it?
I think for my next athletic goal I will just let the wind blow and take me where it wants. Just kidding, I think I would like to try and register for the lottery for the 2017 TCS New York City Marathon. I will most likely train with the Running Wild marathon training program as they have made it so easy…all I need to do is run:) In the meantime, I hope to train with Mere Mortals and participate in my second sprint tri this summer.
