Dana is 36 years old and is a single mom with three children; 1 girl (12) 2 boys (10 and 5). 2 very spoiled cats, boy and girl.
Dana does Leasing and Marketing for The Boyer Company. She was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, but grew up most of her childhood years in Waterloo, Iowa. She moved to Ogden when she was 12.
Here are a few facts about Dana when asked about running:
Years running: I started running 5K's and 10K's about 16 years ago, but began long distance running close to 5 years ago.
Weekly mileage: 35-50
Favorite race distance or race: Definitely the marathon distance; however, I love the Moab ½ Marathon. I have run it 4 years straight and am feeling very bummed out I didn't make the lottery this year. It is beautiful!
PR's - (5K, 10K, ½, mara, Ultra) or proudest running accomplishment: I have several proud moments in running, but none stick out as much as when I finished my first Ultra Marathon last October (OV50). I felt like a superhero! It was the most amazing feeling ever! 5K PR - 19:36 (5 months after my 10 year old was born J) 10K - 41 minutes ½ - 1 hour thirty minutes Marathon - 3:13:52 (St. George 2008 J) Ultra (50 miler) - 8 hrs. and 52 minutes.
Favorite training run: There is a very long hill in North Ogden called "Mile Hill" which is just that, 1 mile straight up! One of my favorite training runs is to run up Mile Hill, go back down, and run right back up (up to three or four times). Crazy, yes, but extremely good for you both mentally and physically.
Why run - (motivation, inspiration): Because I truly love it! Before I started long distance running, I was very ill. I was diagnosed with Graves Disease and had undergone a major surgery due to other serious health issues. I was weak and sick of being sick! After my surgery, my doctor asked me what I was going to do now. I smiled at him and said, "I'm going to run a marathon!" 10 months later, I ran my first Ogden Marathon in 2004. Running has improved my health, my attitude, and my entire life. I'm a better person because of it in every way.
Goals: To run a 3-hour marathon this year. AND, to stay injury free trying to do so.
Favorite music to run to: Anything really. I just like a good beat that can keep me going. Sometimes, I choose to go without the music though. I love to be lost in my own thoughts. I think I make most of my major decisions in life running.
Favorite running gear - (shoes, apparel, etc.): ASICS 2130's. The God of all shoes; or should I say Goddess?
Best advice you've been given as a runner: Strength of body is very important, strength of mind is EVERYTHING!
Best motivational quote: DO OR DO NOT, THERE IS NO TRY! - Star Wars fans will appreciate that one. J
Your role model: My father. As I was growing up in Iowa, I watched my Dad get up in sub-zero weather to train for marathons. He taught me to make a goal and do whatever you needed to do to achieve it, but most of all, he taught me to never give up.
Favorite food: Eggplant Parmesan, Boston Cream Pie, and Licorice. Throw in a Diet Pepsi and life is perfect.
Hobbies or interests other than running: There is life outside running? J My children are my main hobby. BUT, I can also be found reading books, weight lifting, watching basketball, biking, and hiking.
Anything else the world might want to know about you: I am running the Boston Marathon in April. It will mark my 10th marathon! I am beyond excited.
