In the summer of 2017, at the age of 46. I registered for my first running event. The Scotiabank Rat Race (5k). I vividly remember the energy coursing throughout my body at the starting line, the cheers from the spectators that lined the streets of Downtown Toronto, the uncertainty about my ability to finish the race, the joy of crossing the finish line, the positive energy at the post race celebration, and mostly the feeling of belonging when I was called a runner for the first time. This was when I knew I finally found a sport that I loved and that this was only the beginning of my running journey.

Over the 2 years that followed. Running became an integral part of my identity and daily routine. When I wasn't running, I was reading, planning, listening, and learning how to become a stronger runner. During family vacations I packed all my running gear and mapped out a variety of destination runs. Competitively, I ran several 5k races, eventually progressing to longer distances. Including the 10k, half-marathon, and in the fall of 2019, my first marathon at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon.

Running my first marathon was a very humbling learning experience that fueled my desire to improve my strength and endurance so that I can achieve my goal of running a qualifying time for the Boston Marathon.