Meet Our October Athlete of the Month- Sara Mandel

What does running mean to you?

This question is hard for me to answer. In the simplest of words: running has given me my life back. I started my running journey in December 2015 with joining the My first 5k: Bayou Hills Run. I was overweight, out of shape and just unhealthy. I set out with the goal of finishing a 5k under 40 mins. Unfortunately that did not happen with my first 5k. But by that time I had been bitten by the running bug. I was addicted to this whole running thing. I loved the sense of family and community that running has provided to me and that has brought some truly amazing people into my life. Running has helped me with become physical healthier by losing weight and becoming physically stronger, but it has helped me to become mentally and emotionally stronger. I may never be consider an elite runner or finish an ultra, but I AM A RUNNER!!!

Why did you start running?

I started running because I needed to make major changes in my life. I lost a loved due to a massive heart attack suddenly in 2015. He was only 39yrs old. I was overweight and unhealthy and I knew if I continued that could be me, and I could not and would not do that to my family. I needed to be a better example for them and needed to make changes to ensure that I would be around to see them grow up. The decision to start running has been one of the best decisions of my life. Since I have started running I have lost 50lbs(and counting), become healthier and gained more confidence in myself.

How do you fit running into such a crazy schedule?…and why do you choose to?

I fit my running in whenever I can. I run 2 days a week with my tribe at Running Wild. This family keeps me accountable and is always there for me no matter what. Outside of that I incorporate running with my kids. We usually run together on the weekends. This is always fun for me. A little slower pace but we always have a good time laughing, singing Hamilton and getting in some extra miles. I love running with them. It is a daily decision for me to fit it in my schedule and make it work. There are days I really don’t want to run but after I do I always feel better. I fit it into my schedule not only for my physical well-being but also my mental well-being. I helps me balance my day. I have to take care of myself in order to take care of my family.

How has Running Wild helped you reach your goals?

Absolutely Running Wild has helped me reach my goals. The running coaches and staff at Running Wild are amazing in their encouragement, knowledge and love for every runner that walks in the door no matter if you are a super elite runner or just someone starting out on your running journey. Their encouragement has meant the world to me. After a long day of work I love the fact I can walk into the store and see a smiling face and get to hear a positive affirmation from the people there. I love the fact that you will see them out at races cheering you on or when you come into the store after a run asking you how was your run today. In world with some many negative people these coaches and staff at RW are top notch!!! (And from me and the kids Thank you for all you have done for us).

What was your favorite thing about training with Running Wild?

My favorite thing about training with RW is the sense of family. Everyone from the coaches, staff and fellow runners is one amazing family. Always there with a smile and positive attitude. The coaches seem to know what each person needs and even in a big class they make it very personal for each runner. They make it fun!!!

What is your greatest (favorite) athletic/running accomplishment to date and why?

My greatest accomplishment just recently happened. I had set a goal back in December 2015 when I started my running journey and that was to finish a 5k under 40 minutes. I have run several races and still had not been able to get in under 40 minutes. That was until September 24, 2016 at the Seafood Festival 5k. The morning was hot but it just felt different to me. I found my tribe and set out to run. The course was flat and race and things were going good. Along the race course there were fellow Phat Girlz cheering the runners on and that just pumped me up more and help me put a little more pep in my step. I crossed the finish line that day at 36 minutes and 59 seconds. I could not believe it. I had done it!!! I set a goal and smashed it. My family saw me put in the work and not accomplishment my goal for several races, but I didn’t give up. Just kept saying that it was going take me a little more time. I set an example for my kids that just because something isn’t easy and you don’t accomplish your goals right a way, don’t ever stop and it will pay off in the long run!

TOP 5 Products from Running Wild to help you achieve success?

1.Shoes-Mizuno (purple my favorite color) these are like running on a cloud for me. Never any issues with my shoes and my feet never hurt.
2.Body Glide-chaffing is a serious problem lately and this stuff works great.
3.Nuun-I love this stuff!!! Favorite flavor is Strawberry/Lemonade.
4.Trigger Point Therapy Kit–this is magic for my sore muscles after a really hard run. Roll any time you can.
5.Amphipod Water Bottle-this is a must for my long runs during the summer months.

What is your next athletic goal and how do you plan to reach it?

Currently I am training for the Pensacola Half Marathon in November. This my first half. I am extending my runs each day and preparing my mind for 13.1 miles of hard work. But I know when I cross that finish line no matter how long it takes me to see my family there cheering me on will make that day very special for all of us. They will see that no matter your size or running ability that hard work, dedication and support from your tribe that anything is possible!

The Running Wild crew has witnessed Sara’s tenacity and strength and is overly excited to see all she accomplishes!