How did you get into trail running?
I got into trail running relatively recently; it all started when I joined a performance nutrition group in May 2024. I couldn’t run for more than ten minutes at first, but I loved the challenge and knew it was an area of weakness within my training. My friends in that group quickly inspired me to sign up for my first trail race — a half-marathon trail race in Nashville in October 2020 — and that experience hooked me. It’s been amazing to see how much nutrition and fueling play into the whole process too — something I’m passionate about in my nutrition coaching practice. Before running, I’d already gotten comfortable with longer miles (~7-10 miles a day in 2020; backpacking the Tecumseh trail), so I knew I could go the distance — I just had to figure out how to keep moving at a steady pace and fuel my body effectively.
What led you to the Indiana Trail Running Club?
I found the Indiana Trail Running Club via recommendation of a friend as I was looking for a way to make trail running more of a shared experience. I’d already seen how powerful a supportive community can be — both in the nutrition coaching groups I work with and in my rock climbing & CrossFit adventures — and I wanted to keep that momentum going. Learning from experienced trail runners and sharing what I know about fueling and recovery feels like such a natural fit.
What are you most excited about being part of ITR?
I’m most excited about being part of a community that genuinely cares about the journey — not just the finish line. ITR feels like the kind of space where everyone’s story matters, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned trail runner. I’m also looking forward to nerding out with folks about fueling strategies and the best trails & races.
What are your trail running goals and what drives you?
Right now, my main goal is to deliver a healthy baby girl in November! Looking ahead, I’ve got my sights set on completing my first 50K at the Tecumseh 50K in October 2026. I’m really driven by the idea of stepping into a whole new level of strength in the postpartum chapter/Strong Mom Era. I want to show up for myself in a way that’s even bigger and bolder — proving that this next season can be my strongest yet. I’m excited to see what’s possible when I come back to the trails next year with a new sense of purpose and power. Â
How does your sports background—hiking, lifting, climbing, and CrossFit—help you as a runner?
I didn’t grow up as an athlete — in fact, I struggled with my weight for a long time and didn’t really find my stride with movement until college. That’s when I started to see how strength and endurance could feel like freedom, not punishment. Lifting and CrossFit built a foundation of strength and taught me to trust my body — skills I lean on now a lot in trail running. Climbing taught me how to stay calm and steady on new terrain, and hiking helped me learn to be comfortable going long distances.
What are you currently training for?
Right now, I’m not training for a race, but for motherhood! My focus is on fueling a healthy pregnancy and staying active. After completing the Dances with Dirt Gnaw Bone Relay a few weeks ago, I am still getting in some miles at my new “pregnancy slow” pace, moving as it feels good for my body, and preparing myself for the next stages.
Do you have a bucket list race or long-term goal?My current bucket list goal is to complete the Tecumseh 50K in October 2026, and then maybe the Jackson County 100K in a few years. I love the idea of taking on that challenge and seeing how I can grow into it—especially with a few more years of learning about how nutrition can support endurance and performance. Long-term, I want to stay active in all seasons of life and help others find their flow with performance nutrition. If I’m still out there in my 80s, coaching, lifting, climbing, and running, that would be incredible.