It has been over 2 years since I have laced up my running shoes to hit the streets.  Recently I trained for my first organized race, and it was so wonderful to run again.  I did stay active during my time off and kept my cardio levels up.  I am excited, I am a runner again after a 2-year hiatus.

In my blog, A Runner No More, I explain why I quit running.  I really did think I was not going to run again.  I was willing to give up running to ensure I was able to hike, walk, bike, etc. and continue to live my active lifestyle.

It brings me joy now that I get to continue to run and enjoy the other activities in my life! Much of my success in running again came from strength training and building muscles in my body, especially my legs.  I contribute my success to hard work with my trainer Tyler Lee-Banks.   Training was not easy, we had our trials and setbacks, but we kept persevering.

The reward was doing the 36^th Annual CCVI Trolley Run. The CCVI Trolley Run is the largest annual fundraiser for the Children’s Center for the Visually Impaired.  The run is one of Kansas City’s oldest and largest road race and is a 4-mile race. It runs through charming and historic sections of Kansas City starting in Waldo, Brookside, and finishing on the County Club Plaza. 

On race day, the run was delayed one hour since there were storms in the area. The delay worked out perfect as there was no rain during the race.  About 2,000 runners crossed the finish line.  I finish 1^st in my age category and in the top 10% of all women who ran the race.

I love running again and wonder what race I will sign up for next. My promise is to be a more balanced athlete.  Instead of spending most of my time on the repetitive action of running, I now add other activities and especially weight training to my weekly exercise routine.  Muscle strength is one of the foundational keys to healthy living in all stages of life.