That Mother Runner
Every mile is proof that a mother’s limits don’t exist—they’re just starting lines..
Building Base Pace
In October 2023, I gave birth to my third child—and with that, a new chapter of life began. Not just as a mother of three, but as a woman on a mission to reconnect with herself, rebuild her strength, and chase down finish lines one stride at a time.My first race back was a 5K in January. It wasn’t just a race—it was the spark that lit a fire in me. I laced up my shoes not knowing where this path would lead, but determined to show up for myself. That 5K launched me into seven more races, each one carrying its own story, sweat, and sense of victory.
As I gained momentum, I joined a 10K training team—something that felt ambitious after everything my body had been through. (Hello, major abdominal surgery!) But with the steady support and encouragement of my coaches, I did something I never imagined: I joined the half marathon training team in August with the goal of completing 13.1 miles in November.That training cycle was one of the most mentally and physically demanding things I’ve done. This wasn’t just any postpartum comeback—this was me navigating healing, motherhood, and miles. I had to trust that I was capable, even when it didn’t feel like it. And along the way, I found so much more than endurance—I found strength I didn’t know I had.
One of the most meaningful parts of this journey has been including my family. My daughter ran two kids’ races and earned her own medals—yes, we’ve got a little runner in the making! On her birthday, I honored our journey together by running the Bust the Banks Half Marathon, which looped all around the James River. It was the most challenging race I’ve ever done—real tears, real hills, real triumph. I’ll never forget it.I’ve never been too worried about pace, but I do pay attention—and I’m proud to say I’m getting stronger. No two courses are alike. Each one brings its own challenges: wind, rain, hills, or heat. But no matter what, one truth remains: Don’t be afraid to start.
Since then, I’ve become an RRCA certified running coach ran two more races and participated in the winter half marathon training team, completing another half in March. The cherry on top? I beat my November half marathon time by 16 minutes. SIXTEEN. That felt like a huge win—and a reminder that progress is possible when you just keep going.
Now, I’m staring down the ultimate goal: 26.2 miles. A marathon. Something that once felt impossible now feels like destiny. Every race behind me has prepared me for what’s ahead. And no matter how long it takes or how hard it feels, I’ll keep showing up.
To any mamas, runners, or dreamers out there: your starting line might look different, but the courage it takes to begin? That’s universal. If you’re wondering whether you can—try. You might just surprise yourself. Here’s to every mile, every medal, every moment of grit. The comeback is always greater than the setback. Let’s keep running forward.
