First Marathon Buddy Program Athlete Spotlight: Meet Audra!

Audra is one of the many first-time marathoners who have joined the First Marathon Buddy Program! You can join the community to cheer Audra on to her first marathon.

Q: What's your favorite race you've ever run?

A: I did the Rock 'n' Roll last year in Phoenix. It was so much fun and we had so many people cheering us on.

Q: What is your favorite running memory?

A: Crossing my first half marathon finish line. I couldn’t believe that I had actually done it.

Q: What is your favorite running mantra?

A: It used to be “I will run until I can’t," but I changed it after listening to the My First Marathon Podcast. It’s now “I can do hard things!" I will be getting a shirt that says this for my first marathon.

Q: What do you enjoy most about running and/or the running community?

A: Running has been my therapy. On the days that I run, I feel like a new person. I absolutely love having so many in the running community cheering me on. It’s really such an amazing place to be.

Q: Why did you join the First Marathon Buddy Program?

A: Because I wanted the community and encouragement to do this. I have, over the years, stopped running due to “injuries" and lost my motivation and my belief in myself. Listening to others' stories is what keeps me motivated and excited, knowing there are those who have had some of the same struggles I have.

Q: What are your current running goals?

A: I have a half marathon in May and I am training to beat my last pace. I then have my first full marathon in December of this year.

Fun Fact: I love hiking and backpacking. I’ve backpacked into the Grand Canyon 3 times and planning another backpack trip for October or November.

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