Kristen Walker

Kristen is 31 years old, married to Justin Walker and together they have one son named Carson.  Kristen works at STRIDERS!  Kristen grew up in Fremont, CA but pretty much considers Layton her hometown now.

Here are a few facts about Kristen when we asked her about running:

Years running: Well, I used to ride my bike with my dad when he ran when I was young, but I didn't start running seriously until after I had Carson almost 6 years ago.

Weekly mileage: I don't know, I don't really like to keep track, I just listen to my body and do what feels good.  Running is fun, not work!!!!!

Favorite race distance or race: I don't know, probably ½ marathon distance on up to Ultra.

PR's - (5K, 10K, ½, mara, Ultra) or proudest running accomplishment:

½ marathon PR is I think 1:36ish, marathon is 3:31.16 (at Des News this year), 50 miler is around 10 hours. My proudest running accomplishments were running the Striders Memorial day mile with my 5 year old son Carson and running the Park City half with my husband Justin and sister-in-law Rachael.

Favorite training run: Anything with my friends, the longer and more hills the better.

Why run - (motivation, inspiration): Because I can. Because I love to run. To keep my sanity, happy wife and mom means happy family.  I also have great friends that I love to run with, I probably would have never run a marathon if Celeste Collman hadn't found me out running one morning and took me under her wing.

Goals: Keep running as long as I possibly can.  I want to do the OV 50 again this year.  Eventually I would like to do a triathlon.

Favorite music to run to: I don't run with music.

Favorite running gear - (shoes, apparel, etc.): Shoes right now: Asics cumulus, Brooks Ghost 3, Saucony Xodus   I love Nike apparel, my Brooks shorts, and my Wright socks.

Best advice you've been given as a runner: If your going to biff it on a trail run at least make sure someone gets to see it so they can laugh with you. I guess resting,is pretty important also.

Best motivational quote:"Get comfortable being uncomfortable"   by the famous philosopher and runner Marc Collman

Your role model: My husband Justin, he is an amazing person who supports me in all that I do and is an amazing father and my best friend.  My parents Gene and Madeleine Ray who help me and support me and always have.  My dad especially has always gotten me out to run, hike, bike ride, backpack, and taught me to love nature and challenge myself physically.

Favorite food: Haribo gummy bears, they are delicious for breakfast, lunch or dinner and even while running. Anything from MacCools.

Hobbies or interests other than running: Right now it is spending time with my family and friends.

Anything else the world might want to know about you: I can eat an entire helping of Roosters bread pudding myself and don't sit next to me or I will eat yours too.