Sariah Elizabeth Long
Sariah is 22 and married to former Weber State distance runner Nathan Long; "unfortunately our apartment won't allow us to have a puppy". Sariah currently works part time for BASICS at Weber State University as a personal trainer. Her hometown is Oceanside, California.
Here are a few facts about Sariah when we asked her about running:
Years running: 9 years
Weekly mileage: Depends on the week, but usually between 70-80 miles per week.
Favorite race distance or race: My favorite race distance is the mile and 1500m on the track, because it is such a short race at a quick pace. I love the feeling of flying around the track. On the roads I love doing 5k's probably for the same reason.shorter and quicker.
PR's - (5K, 10K, ½, mara, Ultra) or proudest running accomplishment: My proudest running accomplishment was when I competed at a Notre Dame cross country invite. I came in 8th in a pretty elite college field. It was at this moment that I realized that I was pretty good at running and I can run with the best of them. After this race I realized that I was on another running level then I was the year before.
Favorite training run: Any trail run. I love being on the trials any time I get the opportunity, even if my legs are hurting.
Why run - (motivation, inspiration): Nathan really inspired me while we were dating. I saw how hard he worked in workouts, doing all of his morning runs, and getting a full night's sleep each day. Plus I just like the feeling of being in shape. I love eating healthy and going to bed early.I think my body appreciates it too.most times. =)
Goals: I want to get top 12 at the trials, I want to drop my 5k and 10k road times, and I want to train for the mile indoors.
Favorite music to run to: Anything. I really don't run much to music; I would rather have a dog to run with so hopefully we can find a place where we can own one. =)
Favorite running gear - (shoes, apparel, etc.): I really like Nike's apparel, but I own a lot of adidas gear.
Best advice you've been given as a runner: I was given this letter from my high school coach before a big race, it reads,"Of all the attributes and talents that you possess which make you a great runner, I believe that courage is the greatest. Use this as you run. Be bold enough to surge when you shouldn't and hang on when you can't. Do not betray any emotion. As you warm up, and as you race repeat this word in your head: CALM. This will help you remain focused and relaxed." I actually won this race which was a big upset. =)
Best motivational quote: "You can accomplish anything you set your mind to."-Unknown.
Your role model: Nathan is my biggest role model. He is the most unselfish person I have ever met in my life. He always puts others before himself and I am the luckiest person to be married to him.
Favorite food: Mexican. I love Mexican food as long as it's not too spicy.
Hobbies or interests other than running: I like anything outdoors such as fishing, camping, hiking, mountain biking, walking, and swimming.
Anything else the world might want to know about you: As long as you have a desire to do something you can do whatever you set your mind too. Don't let anyone ever tell you, you can't do something.only you can make that decision. I could never have gotten to where I am at without this piece of knowledge.
