Originally from Hong Kong & Srilanka, Salina moved to the US and graduated from UWF. She has served in health care for 15 years as a cardiac sonographer and radio-logic technologist and is now a clinical analyst for Baptist Health Care.
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.

Salina and fellow Phat Girl after Salina’s first triathlon! She was nervous but that didn’t stop her. We’re so thankful for her inspiring, fearless attitude and always providing a laugh