Category Archives: Member Of The Month

A monthly spotlight of NRC members making a difference and meeting their goals.

NRC Runner Spotlight – Kevin Harkins

It’s no secret that NRC is full of incredible people that are amazing runners and amazing people and our next Runner Spotlight checks both of those boxes!  He’s spent his career teaching and researching MRI technology at a prestigious medical school, while raising a family of three boys alongside his wife, Mindy.  His running resume is impressive too despite only having started running less than 10 years ago.  I’ve logged many miles with Kevin Harkins and as always, the process of completing the Runner Spotlight article brought new insights about Kevin, even to me.  Read on to learn more about him, including why he got started with NRC, his desire for hilly races (see the question about his running accomplishments thus far), and what he hopes is an NRC trip to the Grand Canyon someday.  As always, I was inspired to hear Kevin’s story and I hope you are too!

NRC: Where are you from and how did you make your way to the Nolensville area?

Kevin: I am originally from Phoenix, Arizona and I have lived in many cities in Arizona, including Tucson and Flagstaff.  I like to say, “If you’ve heard of it in Arizona, chances are I’ve lived there.”  After graduate school, I moved to Tennessee in 2009 to work as a postdoctoral fellow at Vanderbilt and the rest is history.

NRC: What is your occupation and something you enjoy about it?

Kevin:  I am a Research Assistant Professor at Vanderbilt University.  I do teach occasionally, but I primarily spend my time researching and developing new technology for MRI scans.  I love my job- it’s intellectually stimulating, and I get creative solving problems.  One of the projects I am currently working and excited about is the use of MRI technology to detect bone fragility; usually, those tests are done by DEXA, x-ray, or CT scans, but we have been developing specialized MRI scans that are sensitive to bone health.  I also love that my job allows me to be flexible with family needs.  And I get to travel from time to time- in fact, I am headed to Singapore this summer!

NRC:  Wow!  That sounds very cool and rewarding to do every day.  When you’re not at work, how do you like to spend time with your family?  Can you tell us a little bit more about them?

Kevin: My wife, Mindy, and I have three boys (ages 18, 14, 12), so we stay busy.  They all run cross country and track at either Woodland Middle School or Ravenwood High School.  Mindy ran prior to her stroke, so they get the running bug honestly, though I didn’t start until about 10 years ago!  We spend a lot of time shuttling our kids to different events and Mindy just started volunteering at the library.

NRC: It sounds like you’re relatively new to running then.  What was your experience with running growing up?  Did you play any sports as a child?

Kevin: I wrestled in high school, but I was more of a Theater and Choir nerd back then.  Once in college, I started cycling.  As part of a relay team, we raced mountain bikes for 24 hours (similar set up to the local Black Toe Relay Race).

NRC: You mentioned making fun of runners when you were younger and look at you now!  Was there a specific motivation to start running?  When did running become part of your life?

Kevin:  Exercise in general is a major outlet for coping with stress, both with work and family.  In 2015, I was weightlifting with a friend, Matt, who was training for the Franklin Classic 5K and he talked me into doing it with him.  Before that, I had several “false starts” where I’d start running but I never stuck with it long-term.  However, finishing the 5K with Matt really propelled me into becoming a runner.

NRC: I think many of our club members can relate to that story- a friend peer pressuring you into a race that you love and then you sign up for more!  How did you hear about NRC?

Kevin:  My first experience with NRC was at that Franklin Classic 5K in 2015.  There was a big contingency there from the club and I remember thinking how odd it was that they were all so happy and excited to be running a 5K!  Not long after that race, my friend, Matt stopped running due to an injury and I came to NRC to meet some new running friends and give me the accountability I needed to keep running.

NRC: Many NRCers find lifetime friendships and the accountability here- we love that you have too!  What is one of your favorite memories with NRC thus far?

Kevin:  Like everyone, I really enjoy the destination races!  Some recent favorites are the Memphis St. Jude Marathon in 2022 and the Stump Jump 10 Miler in 2023.  I really like the chance to get to know the people I run with better during the road trip or the extra time hanging out at dinner the night before the race.  I am sure I am not the only one who enjoys the break from family and the day-to-day; as my kids have gotten older, it’s easier for me to be able to do the destination races as well.

NRC:  Destination races are the best!  Who in NRC has been most motivating to you and in what ways?

Kevin:  It’s so hard to NOT be motivated by some of the accomplishments of NRC members- Jason Loyd, Eric Waterman, and Joe Relyea are all so impressive!  I also really love (and appreciate) the accountability from ALL my Wednesday and Saturday running crew- Scott Alexander, Andy Michael, Andy Dabson, Michael Teague, Andrea Klint, and Ruth Wilkins to name just a few.  And of course, Wendy Mucci!  But I assume everyone is motivated by Wendy Mucci?!

NRC:  We could not agree more with each of those folks you named for motivation.  We really do have some incredible runners in our midst.  Let’s talk about your running accomplishments thus far- any favorites or races you’re particularly proud of?

Kevin: One of my proudest running accomplishments thus far was a continuous streak where I ran at least one mile for 501 days!  It all started when Scott Alexander challenged us to run outside every day in January 2017; I completed January and just decided to keep going until I ended the streak right before my 50K in May 2018.  In terms of racing accomplishments, I’ve had a few podium finishes, including placing 2nd overall in the Music City Trail 12K in 2017 and winning my age group at Smyrna Parks 5K in 2018.   I’ve completed one ultramarathon (Gnaw Bone 50K in Nashville, Indiana) and five marathons so far- four of those five marathons are the Flying Monkey Marathon run right here in Percy Warner Park; my only other marathon is the Memphis St. Jude race.  I guess hills don’t scare me; in fact, I’d argue you “get over them” (pun intended!).

NRC: We like what you did there!  Those are some challenging and hilly races.  How have you dealt with injuries or training setbacks?  What has helped you train through the challenges?

Kevin: I’ve dealt with Plantar Fasciitis and Runner’s Knee at various points.  I focus on prevention and am very intentional about strengthening my feet to remain injury free; I walk barefoot and wear shoes without much support as much as possible.  I also cross train by swinging kettle bells or training Brazilian jiu jitsu a couple times each week.

NRC:  We hope those continue to keep injuries at bay for you.  What are your current training goals?

Kevin: My primary training goal is the Louisville Marathon at the end of April (see my answer on destination races above!).  I plan to run the Oak Barrel Half Marathon in April too.

NRC:  I am sure many of your NRC friends will be joining you for both of those races!  If there were no limitations, what race would you like to run?

Kevin: It’s not exactly a race, but Grand Canyon Rim to Rim to Rim!  It’s about 50 miles in total and I’d love to get a group from NRC to complete it with me.  I’ve hiked some of the Grand Canyon but I’ve not run it nor completed that course.

NRC: We have no doubt you could get some takers for that run!  Maybe a destination race for 2025? It would be a great way to celebrate 10 years of running for you! 

In all seriousness, your consistency and discipline are impressive and we’re glad you took a chance on all the happy and excited NRCers you found at the Franklin 5K back in 2015.  Congratulations, Kevin, and we are so glad you’re a part of the NRC family! 

Speed Round:

NRC: Favorite mid run fuel?

Kevin: Kids applesauce pouches or PB&J sandwich.  Truthfully, I am too lazy to buy real runner food/fuel so I just raid the kids’ snacks.

NRC: Name a hidden talent or something surprising about you that no one in NRC would guess.

Kevin: I play guitar and sing; in fact, I cowrote songs in college with someone who went on to be part of a band signed to a major label.  They’re called the Railers and they’re on Wikipedia, so you know it’s legitimate.

NRC: Most scenic or unique place you’ve run?

Kevin: Most scenic would be the Monterrey Bay Half Marathon in California; most unique would be at the MacRitchie Reservoir in Singapore.

NRC: Any hobbies?

Kevin: Running (obviously), kettle bells, playing guitar, and spending time with family.

NRC: Favorite thing about winter?

Kevin: Getting out to run in the cold; it always feels like such an accomplishment when you finish!

NRC Runner Spotlight – Mary Kate Collins Pollreis

Our next Runner Spotlight joined NRC back in 2019 after she watched our group run right by her house for enough Wednesday nights before she decided she needed to check us out for herself, and we sure are glad she did!  I greatly enjoyed getting to know Mark Kate Collins Pollreis, especially her trademark dry sense of humor. Read on to learn more about some of her amazing accomplishments, her favorite memories thus far with NRC, and her incredible perspective on dealing with an unpredictable medical condition.  I was inspired interviewing her and I hope you enjoy getting to know her better!

NRC: Where are you from and how did you make your way to the Nolensville area?

Mary Kate: I am originally from Brentwood by way of my mother and went to Ravenwood High School.  I went to Harding College in Searcy, Arkansas (we have a few Harding alums in NRC by the way!) where I met my husband, Chris.  I ran cross country and track at Harding and Chris and I stayed in Arkansas for 4 years post-graduation.  We had our daughter, Collins, in Little Rock and when she was almost one, she got a stomach bug that she passed on to both of us- it was then that we realized we needed family close by to help so we moved back to the Nolensville area.  I also wanted Collins to have the same opportunity I did growing up in great schools!

NRC:  So it sounds like you’ve run for quite some time.  When did it start for you?  Did you play any other sports growing up?

Mary Kate: My dad was a runner and we lived in a neighborhood where he’d do a short warm-up of 1-2 loops so I’d join him before he went out for his actual run.  My dad ran at Lipscomb so he was my inspiration to really get into running. I did my first 5K with him at 7 years old.  In addition to logging miles with my dad, I played rec basketball in middle school but I was a little small; I still love the sport though and I am a huge WNBA and Lady Vols fan- I dreamt of playing for Pat Summit!

NRC: What is your occupation and something you enjoy about it?

Mary Kate: I am a full-time mother to Collins and I work part-time as a personal assistant and estate manager for a couple in Belle Meade.  My mom does their bookkeeping, which was “in” for the job.  I love working there because it is so interesting!  The couple are very philanthropic and make large donations to the Arts here in Nashville.  And of course, I love being a mom to Collins!

NRC: Let’s shift back to running.  How was running in college and how did that translate to continuing to run into adulthood?

Mary Kate: I loved running at Harding but I had to stop running my sophomore year due to an injury.  After graduation, I started working at the Fleet Feet in Little Rock before Collins was born and I would join their social runs and training group runs.  I definitely got more serious about running again after we moved back to Nolensville and I started working at the Fleet Feet in Brentwood- it was contagious being around fellow runners (and they were some pretty serious runners at that!).

NRC: So how did you hear about NRC then?

Mary Kate:  My house was and still is on many of the Wednesday night routes we run and it was a little difficult not to notice over fifty people running right by your house each week!  In all seriousness, my first run with NRC was 2019 when we still met at Town Hall.  I didn’t actually know anyone, but I met some friendly ladies who I logged my first NRC miles with- Terrie Peterson and Kara Molitor.  When we moved to meeting at the brewery, I remember turning around before announcements and saying, “Hi, I’m Mary Kate; what pace do you run?” to Erin Petree and Tandy Blaylock who are some of my closest friends in NRC now.  We’ve logged many miles together and gone through some ups and downs- Erin has had two kids since we started running together and Tandy has had a full hip replacement!

NRC: You found some great ladies to log miles with at NRC!  What is one of your favorite memories with the group thus far?

Mary Kate: My favorite memory thus far has been volunteering with the Couch to 5K Program in 2023!  Wendy Mucci and I mentored a group together; we called ourselves the Greyhounds and we barked at everyone.  I also love meeting all the people at NRC!  I’ve done some long races that require some very long training runs so I really enjoy logging miles with all the different pace groups since I am more focused on duration rather than speed; it’s a great way to meet and run with all kinds of NRCers!

NRC: We love that you’ve been able to log miles with all the different pace groups within NRC.  Who in NRC has been a big motivator for you?

Mary Kate:  It’s hard to pick one person and I truly try not to compare myself to others because we have some incredible runners in our group.  Tandy Blaylock is so impressive to me- she had a full hip replacement and is still getting out there to walk and be part of the NRC community!  It’s all the people in NRC who keep showing up- rain or shine, fast or slow!  I truly enjoy running with NRC to meet new people and running just happens to be what we are doing while we meet.

NRC:  We love your approach and perspective on what makes NRC special!  Let’s talk about some of your most memorable races/accomplishments thus far.

Mary Kate: Most recently, the Bell Ringer 50K.  I had a great training cycle including a 21-mile training run that gave me a huge confidence boost going into the race and I had a much better finishing time than my last 50K.  This past summer, I completed Hell Mary, which is a local race directed by John Hardin; it’s a one mile loop and there are different time options- I did the 12-hour iteration and finished 40 loops!  It was so fun and several of my friends from Fleet Feet did it as well.  My first marathon was St. Jude in 2022; I also love our club’s race, the Rollin Nolen and I PRd by 20 minutes in 2023!

NRC: You’ve had some amazing races recently!  Let’s talk about how you’ve dealt with injuries or training setbacks.  How do you train through those challenges?

Mary Kate: I have IBS and I’d say that’s the biggest challenge for me while training and racing because I can have a great training cycle but have a bad race day and there is nothing I can do about it.  I have a list of “safe” foods I stick to for the whole week leading up the race as my mitigation strategy, but that unfortunately doesn’t always guarantee I won’t have issues.  Accepting and acknowledging that I can do everything right and there is nothing I can do about it has been the most challenging part of having IBS but it is also the best way to cope with it.  I’ve had to let go of my pride for sure.  It’s tough to feel like I’ve done everything right in training leading up to the race to then have a bad race.  That said, I remind myself running is such a gift and a blessing and I try not to take it for granted!  I want to show my daughter, Collins, that I can do hard and stupid races that some people might say can’t be done; at the same time, I want her to know that accomplishing those things isn’t the only way I value myself!

NRC: That has to be so tough going into race day not knowing how it will go but your attitude and perspective about it show much about your character.  Are you currently training for any races?

Mary Kate: I just finished Bell Ringer 50K this past weekend.  Besides that, I am running 2,023 miles in 2023 and I am currently on pace!  I have to average about 5.5 miles/day.  I will finish the 2,023 miles, even if I have to set up a Sign Up Genius on 12/29 for running buddies to finish it out!

NRC:  I am sure you would have no problem getting some NRC friends to help you reach that goal!  If there were no limitations, what race would you like to run?

Mary Kate: The Javelin Jundred.  It’s at McDowell Park in Arizona around Halloween.  It’s a 20-mile loop course and while 100 miles may not be attainable yet, they do offer a 100K.  The challenge for me is getting all the training in while being a mom.  I don’t want to prioritize running and lose that time with my family.

NRC: Speaking of family, tell us about yours before we wrap up!

Mary Kate: I met my husband, Chris, through some of my Cross Country teammates, who ended up being randomly paired to be Chris’s roommate.  Chris used to complain it smelled so bad in their dorm!  We met Freshman year but we didn’t date until Sophomore year and we married shortly after I graduated in July 2014.  Chris is a full-time firefighter in LaVergne and volunteers for the Nolensville Fire Department as well; he used to be in Hospital Administration but always dreamed of being a firefighter, and while his schedule is a little challenging at times, I am grateful he feels more fulfilled!  We have a daughter, Collins, who just turned 6 and is in Kindergarten.  She used to join me for runs in her stroller and her goal this summer is to ride her bike without training wheels so she can join me for some of my runs!

NRC: Your dedication to your family and some very challenging races is inspiring and we can’t wait to hear about more of them from you!  Congratulations, Mary Kate, and we are so glad you are a part of the NRC family! 

Speed Round:

NRC: Favorite mid run fuel?

Mary Kate: Black Forest Gummy Fruit Snacks, Spring Nutrition Awesome Sauce, Bare Performance Nutrition Gels (all easier on my stomach!)

NRC: Name a hidden talent or something surprising about you that no one in NRC would guess.

Mary Kate: I performed an original song at the Country Music Hall of Fame about my mother’s cheese toast in the sixth grade; it was part of a state-wide song-writing contest and I was paired with an actual songwriter who paired the words to actual music, which was pretty cool.

NRC: Favorite local run?

Mary Kate: The Bryant Grove Trail at Longer Hunter State Park!  There are real bathrooms, the trail is easy to navigate without too many turns, and it’s close to Nolensville!

NRC: Any hobbies?

Mary Kate: Weightlifting and working out; mid-day naps

NRC: Favorite thing about the holidays?

Mary Kate: Seeing it through Collins’s eyes!  We have a Christmas Play she’ll be in, breakfast with Santa, and I enjoy getting my early/late runs in with all the festive lights of Nolensville

 

 

NRC Runner Spotlight – Jay Adamson

Our next Runner Spotlight found his way to NRC in 2013 through our beloved Couch to 5K program and from participant to mentor, Jay Adamson is making quite an impact on that program and the Nolensville Running Club.

Read on to learn more about Jay’s favorite races, his time in the Army including running all night avoiding poisonous snakes with no light, and his passion for helping fellow runners achieve their goals. It was truly inspirational to hear him speak of runners who have inspired him and those he has inspired through C25K and there’s no better time to celebrate Jay than at the conclusion of our 2023 C25K program!

NRC: Where are you from and how did you make your way to the Nolensville area?

Jay: I was born in Terre Haute, Indiana and moved to Clinton, NJ when I was 6 years old. I loved growing up in New Jersey playing sports and we were 2 hours from everywhere- New York City, Philly, and the Jersey Shore. I moved to Nashville in 1994; truthfully, I wanted to move to Dallas, but my wife at the time was the first to land a job and it happened to be here in Nashville.

NRC: What is your occupation and something you enjoy about it?

Jay: I work in Sales for Siemens. We do “smart” buildings that offer all the awesome automation. I love the challenge of learning about customer needs and the sales process from start to finish.

NRC: So it sounds like you were quite athletic as a kid. Which sports did you play and do you think that’s where you learned to love running?

Jay: I played basketball, baseball, and football as a kid, but my favorite was basketball! I played point guard in high school but knew I wasn’t talented enough to play in college. I joined the Army and got my fill of running though I am not sure I’d always say it was “fun.”

NRC: Thank you for your service! Any fun Army stories you can share?

Jay: I ran through the night chasing some Army Rangers at Fort Benning while stationed there. I was out with a few fellow soldiers “bivouacking” (for those like me who don’t know what that means- it’s camping with little or no shelter) and we ran into some Army Rangers who were out for a trail run. They asked if we wanted to hang with them for a bit, so we did; then, they started giving us a hard time a few miles in and asked if we were “ready for the run to start?” Of course, we couldn’t stop then so we did our best to keep up with them. I recall two distinct things about that night: 1) they had glowsticks hanging from their bags and that was the only light we had so we had to stay close and 2) my biggest fear wasn’t losing them/getting lost but encountering a poisonous snake in the woods of Southern Georgia. The Army Rangers smoked us and we ended up lost in the woods and running all night until the sun came up. They did eventually come and get us but that was quite the night of running!

NRC: Wow, you probably ran an ultramarathon chasing those Rangers all night! So when did you decide to give running for fun a try and how did you hear about NRC?

Jay: I had some neighbors who ran with NRC, Lauren and Richard Reed, and I’d see Lauren out running a lot. She talked me into attending the Couch to 5K program back in 2013.

NRC: That’s great you found us via C25K. What are some of your favorite memories with NRC?

Jay: There are so many to choose from! One of my favorites would be my first Couch to 5K program, which got me back into running and living a healthier lifestyle. I’ve developed so many great friendships through NRC and have had a chance to pay it forward by becoming a C25K mentor myself; it’s so incredibly rewarding to help others achieve their goal of completing a 5K. I tell all my mentees that “it doesn’t matter if you run a mile in seven or seventeen minutes; a mile covered is a mile, regardless of pace.” I believe anyone who gets out there, puts their best effort forward, and finishes what they started is a winner in my opinion. And we all know training runs can become hard- when that happens, I tell them to simply “embrace the suck!”

NRC: You’re so full of running wisdom and C25K is lucky to have you! Who in NRC motivates you?

Jay: Lisa Singer and Jo Anne King helped me train for my first half marathon, and Jo Anne even paced me. Scott and Kelli Alexander have built such an amazing running (and walking) club and Scott is so encouraging. I was so inspired by the late Jimmy Alexander too- it’s incredible how he started running later in life and finished his first marathon in his 70s! My peers in the 3:1 interval group help hold me accountable so that’s very motivating for me. My Ragnar teams, including Stephanie Spann and Terri Peterson; you get really close to your van mates in the 24 hours you spend with them!

NRC: Since we just finished up the 2023 Couch to 5K program, let’s revisit that. What do you think makes that program so successful and do you have any favorite or memorable mentees?

Jay: I love the Couch to 5K program because I think it makes our running club approachable for people who think NRC is only full of amazingly fast runners and are intimated thinking they’ll look stupid or too slow if they join us on Wednesday. Our name (Nolensville Running Club) is a little misleading if you think about it- we have all kinds of paces every week: from walkers to Boston-qualifying paces! Wendy and Kathy do such a great job building a community focused on encouraging others to keep moving. I joined the program as a participant 10 years ago and it changed my life- I wanted to get back to running faster and Lisa and Jo Anne helped me realize my goal of running a sub-2-hour half-marathon. Now, as a mentor myself, I’ve had so many great mentees. Pam Taylor comes to mind as a great C25K alumni- she was a participant a few years ago, caught the running bug, and now mentors alongside me with the 3:1 group. My advice to someone who is thinking about joining us, whether it’s a random Wednesday or C25K, is “get up and get out- you’ll make friends doing it.”

NRC: What a legacy you are building within the C25K program and thus NRC. Also, I think we need you to create a few motivational quotes to print on our next round of NRC Bling! Let’s talk about some of your most memorable races/accomplishments thus far.

Jay: I am really proud of my first half marathon, the Middle Half in 2013, which was only about 3-4 months after joining NRC via C25K. I wanted to finish under 2 hours and I hit my goal at 1 hour 52 minutes, with support from Lisa and Jo Anne. Carmel Half Marathon is another one of my favorite races with NRC; I’ve broken 2 hours in the half there and I have fond memories of running the race with David Ramos in 2017, who sadly passed away earlier this year.

NRC: Let’s talk about how you’ve dealt with injuries or training setbacks. How do you train through those challenges?

Jay: Setbacks are inevitable, and I get through them with disappointment and stalwartness. I’ve developed back pain from my time serving in the Army so that’s really impacted my running and speed. I used to be able to run 8-minute miles and experience that runner’s high every time I ran. A few years ago, I reinjured my back and that’s slowed me down. Now that I am older, I am slower and I find recovery and pain lingers longer than it used to. Bayer Back and Body pills and Biofreeze are my best friends now!

NRC: I can only imagine how a back injury could slow you down. That said, are you currently training for any races?

Jay: I’d like to find another half marathon but don’t have anything picked yet.

NRC: Knowing our running club, I am sure you could talk some friends into joining you for that half! Let’s talk family; does anyone in your family run too?

Jay: I have one son, Luke, who just turned 18 and graduated from Nolensville High School. When he was younger, I signed him up for running events at school and I even made him join me for Couch to 5K a few years; unfortunately, the running bug didn’t stick. That said, hopefully I planted a seed and he’ll enjoy running and the friendships it brings like I do at some point in his life. Luke has plans to attend Columbia State University then Belmont and is pursuing a career in acting and film.

NRC: That’s so exciting for Luke and we wish him all the best post-graduation. Last question before the lightning round… if there were no limitations, what race would you love to run?

Jay: The Boston Marathon! I am too old and slow now to even imagine trying to qualify. I have a lot of respect for those who dedicate themselves to training and qualifying for that race; it says a lot about one’s focus and dedication. In fact, while working at UPS, I had a chance to run with a corporate bib without having to qualify and while I would have loved the chance to finally run such an iconic race, I didn’t feel right doing it without earning my spot, especially among my NRC peers. Someday… maybe!

NRC: Well, we are rooting for you to qualify some day so you can earn your spot there and enjoy such a legendary race! Thank you again for all that you’ve contributed to the Couch to 5K program, as a participant and a mentor. Congratulations, Jay, and we are so glad you are a part of the NRC family!

Speed Round:

NRC: Favorite mid run fuel?

Jay: Oranges or bananas.

NRC: Name a hidden talent or something surprising about you that no one in NRC would guess.

Jay: As part of the Army, I was almost deployed to Operation Desert Storm. Luckily, it ended before I was sent over. I have a single and multiengine commercial pilot’s license with an instrument rating; I am also a part-time flight instructor. I love teaching and was supposed to be a high school history teacher but then I chose sales instead for my career.

NRC: Most scenic or unique run?

Jay: Scenic would be the beach; unique would be the all-night trail run with the Army Rangers at Fort Benning.

NRC: Any hobbies?

Jay: Running, flying.

NRC: Favorite thing about summer?

Jay: The warm weather, spending time at the pool, riding in our convertible, and an annual fishing trip I take with my fraternity brothers (I’ve only missed it once since 1994!)

NRC Runner Spotlight – Amber Salcedo

Our next Runner Spotlight comes by way of a few happenchance run-ins with no other than Scott Alexander and though it took Amber Salcedo a few years to finally become an NRC regular, she brings an impressive resume of endurance sports to NRC including swimming in high school (she held a school record that held for over 20 years!) and becoming an Iron-Woman!

Read on to learn more about Amber’s most eventful races including the 2013 Boston Marathon where she heartbreakingly made it within a mile of the finish before being stopped due to the bombing incident and the half-marathon she talked her mother into doing (swearing off any race ever again) that turned into her mom crossing the finish line asking when they could do their next one.

NRC: Where are you from and how did you make your way to the Nolensville area?

Amber: I am originally from Tacoma, Washington and have lived in seven different states including Washington, Oregon, Texas, Indiana, Ohio, California, and of course, Tennessee.  I went to school in Indiana and then started with Nissan after graduation.  I’ve worked with them for about 20 years now and when they relocated their corporate headquarters to Nashville, I moved with them.

NRC: Thank goodness for Nissan because NRC gained a valuable club member!  What do you do there and what do you like about it? 

Amber: I am in the Car-Flow department which is essentially Vehicle Operations.  My day consists of a lot of spreadsheets and is mostly an internal support role.  Nissan has been a great place to grow my career with various roles, responsibilities, and experiences.  My current role gives me lots of visibility internally, including regular meetings with our Senior VP.

NRC: Sounds like you thrive under pressure.  Speaking of that, tell us about your athletic experience growing up.

Amber:  I was definitely not a runner which was apparent after an ill-fated attempt at track early in high school.  Swimming became my sport though I had a bit of a rough start; in my first meet, I had two events and I finished last in one and was disqualified in the other.  However, I am proud to say my swimming career in high school improved significantly after that first meet and by my senior year, I held four school records, and one of those stood for almost 20 years!

NRC: So when did you finally “become a runner” then?  Was there a specific motivation to start?

Amber: I had some high school friends from Indiana come to Nashville to run the Country Music Half Marathon and I enjoyed spectating and cheering for them.  After watching them complete the race, I decided I had to do it for myself and I joined Team in Training’s group training program to prepare me for the Country Music Half and raise money for The Leukemia Lymphoma Society in 2007, and the rest is history.

NRC: Sometimes, all it takes to get motivated is seeing runners have a great time!  Speaking of a great time, how did you hear about NRC?

Amber: Incidentally, I ran into Scott not once but twice at destination races and as we got to talking, we discovered that we both loved running and both happened to live in Nolensville.  I first met Scott in the TSA security line in Boston coming home from the 2013 marathon.  That was a crazy experience because as we were waiting in line, FBI agents were interviewing us and asking for any photos runners might have captured on their phones to help them find the bomber(s).  Though Scott was a really nice guy, I still wasn’t convinced organized club running was for me.  Then, I happened to be in Carmel in 2015 cheering for some friends who were finishing their first full marathon and it was also the year that Jimmy Alexander was completing his first full marathon.  While waiting for my friend to finish, I saw the energy and support from NRC as Jimmy came in and that was the kicker for me- I decided I wanted to be a part of a group that had so much fun and cheered like that!

NRC: Let’s go back to Boston 2013 for a minute.  Tell me about your experience during that race, which was of course, so eventful in a way none of us could have imagined.

Amber: That was a crazy day!  My mom and I ran the race together (I qualified and she ran with a charity bib) and we got all the way through the course with less than a mile to the finish line when we hit a wall of people.  It was confusing and terrifying because there were obviously a lot of runners and we weren’t sure what was going on; there were rumors of a bomb, multiple bombs, and of course, a lack of known information.  It was heartbreaking to get that close to the finish and not be able to cross the line.  I was also fearful upon coming home that I’d be scared to run another big race again so I just ripped the band-aid off and ran the Country Music Full Marathon 10 days later.  I also returned to Boston for a fourth time (I finished in 2011 and 2012 as well) in 2014 and I can assure you there was NOT a safer race out there!  My mom and I finished and enjoyed our chance at redemption crossing that finish line on Boylston Street.

NRC: Wow, I am so impressed with your resilience and determination to not let that event keep you from continuing to race!  What are some of your other favorite races or accomplishments?

Amber:  I’ve completed 16 full marathons and countless half marathons.  I’d say some of my favorites are my first BQ (Boston Qualifier) marathon which was the Shamrock Marathon in Virginia Beach; it’s a great race- it’s flat and finishes in a nice warm tent with Irish stew and beer.  I’ve completed the Boston Marathon a total of 3 times (4 if you count coming within a mile of the finish in 2013) and I’ve also completed an Ironman- Panama City in 2012.

NRC:  An Ironman?!  You are amazing!

Amber: The Ironman is a grueling training process but I had a great group to train with, including my now-husband Patrick.  That said, I don’t think another is on the horizon any time soon; the time to train coupled with the lack of a pool nearby makes it challenging and I am not a fan of cycling- I haven’t ridden my bike since I finished the race!

NRC: Let’s talk more about NRC.  What is one of your favorite memories with the club?

Amber: It’s most recent but I really enjoyed the St. Jude Race in Memphis; I did the half and I got to know a lot of our club members so much more during the Saturday training runs and the celebratory dinner afterward.  I always enjoy a good party post-race! (You and me both!)

NRC: Who in NRC has been motivating as you’ve logged more miles with us?

Amber: Without a doubt, Wendy Mucci!  Wendy is so incredibly inclusive and when I told her I wanted to improve my speed after the Memphis race, she invited me out to run with her the very next week.  Wendy pushes me to keep going even when I may not want to but in such a kind, supportive way!

NRC: Wendy is a club favorite motivator for sure!  Tell us about how you deal with injuries or training setbacks you’ve had in your running journey.

Amber: I’ve been relatively lucky when it comes to running injuries; sure, I’ve had minor plantar fasciitis and some shin splints when I first started running but no major issues.  The toughest for me are the mental setbacks as they’re harder and less obvious on how to resolve; I mentally struggled with training for my first BQ (Boston Qualifier) attempt and I found having accountability through my training friends helped keep me going.

NRC: Let’s hope your NRC friends can keep you uplifted during your next training cycle!  When and where is your next race?

Amber: I am planning to do the Sandy Claus Full Marathon in December in Ponte Vedra, Florida.  This will be my first full marathon since 2016 and my first since having my kids.

NRC:  Wow!  That is going to be an amazing race and accomplishment for you.  Speaking of kids, tell us about your family.

Amber: I’ve been married to my husband Patrick for almost 10 years and we met through some mutual friends while I was training for the IronMan.  We have two young kids; our son is 5 and our daughter is almost 3.  My mom, Sharon, also runs with NRC and she has the best “how did you start running” story.  I recruited her to run the Disney Princess Half Marathon with me in 2008; she was not a fan of the training process during the winter in Indiana and said she would “never do another half again.”  As she was crossing the finish line in Orlando, she yelled to me asking when we were going to do another half and the rest is history- she has since completed about 30 half marathons and three full marathons!

NRC: That is such a great story and we’ll be adding Sharon to our list of future Runner Spotlights!  Last question before the lightning round… if there were no limitations, what race would you love to run?

Amber: NYC Marathon and Big Sur

NRC: Those both sound like amazing destination marathons as does your Ponte Vedra race later this year.  We cannot wait to train with you this summer and we look forward to cheering for you in December!  Congratulations and we are so glad Scott finally convinced you to join the NRC family!

Speed Round:

NRC: Favorite mid run fuel?

Amber: Blackberry Gu

NRC: What’s something you’ve accomplished that surprised even you?

Amber: I was part of an All-Women Ultra Ragnar Tennessee team and we finished in 1st place!

NRC: Most scenic or unique run?

Amber: Lakeshore Drive in Chicago but I like running anywhere I travel

NRC: Any hobbies?

Amber: Reading/Listening to audiobooks

 

NRC Runner Spotlight – Caitlin Maguire


Our next Runner Spotlight features one tough woman whose running journey certainly accelerated when she began logging miles with the Nolensville Running Club. In fact, within two months of her first club run, she ran her first Rollin Nolen race, within seven months, she ran her first half marathon, and within 18 months, she ran her first full marathon! She blames peer pressure (I won’t name names…yet!) but after logging some miles with her and learning more about her in our interview, I know Caitlin Maguire is a strong and admirable woman and runner! Read on to learn more about Caitlin’s life before NRC, the story of her twin sister running over her foot on the way to school one day, her huge accomplishment of recently finishing her first marathon in Memphis, and some other destinations she’d like to travel to for a run someday.

NRC: Where are you from and how did you make your way to the Middle Tennessee area?

Caitlin: I was born in Massachusetts, but we moved to Middle Tennessee when I was a kid. I started college in Boston, but I ended up transferring to UT Knoxville to finish my undergrad degree, then out to Colorado to grad school, and have been back in TN for the last twelve years, so I claim Nashville as my home.

NRC: I know you’re a twin so what was that like growing up, especially at school?

Caitlin: I do have a twin sister, Emily, who is technically one minute older than me. Growing up, we went to different schools starting in 5th grade, so we lived pretty separate lives except for sharing a bedroom and later, a car. I usually drove while Emily finished up her homework on the way. We’d switch seats behind the school and she’d drive and drop me off at the front of my school and continue on to hers. One day I hopped out to grab my backpack from the back seat and somehow, she didn’t realize I was still there with the door open when she started driving off and ended up running over my foot. It was painful at the time but I laughed it off. A year or so later I’d forgotten about it and she mentioned it on a run for a laugh. She still feels bad about it to this day!

NRC: We are glad your foot recovered so you could run with us! When did running become a part of your life?

Caitlin: I’ve been a runner for as long as I can remember. My dad and stepmom were into running and I remember joining them for runs for fun as young as 8 years old. I always enjoyed the fun runs at school, and I ran track in middle school. I quit running in high school but picked it up again in my sophomore year of college.

NRC: Speaking of school, I know you’re a teacher. What do you teach and what do you love about your teaching role?

Caitlin: I teach high school Latin at Franklin Road Academy. I really enjoy the FRA community, the smaller classes, and my colleagues. I teach Latin I through AP Latin, so it’s incredibly rewarding to see my students start as beginners in 9th grade and advance to the highest level of AP Latin as Seniors. Having been there as long as I have (going on 12 years now), I enjoy being one of the more tenured teachers; for the graduation procession, we line up in order based on years of service, and I keep moving closer to the front!

NRC: How did you hear about NRC?

Caitlin: I searched running groups in my area and came across NRC. It looked like a great place to meet people, and boy, was I right! After one Wednesday run, I was in and haven’t looked back.

NRC: What is one of your favorite memories of NRC?

Caitlin: There are so many to choose from, but one of my favorites has to be one of my first nights at NRC in 2021. I came inside to claim my free beer from Scott (which is an amazing way to suck people in!) and I sat down next to Wendy Mucci. Anyone who knows Wendy Mucci knows that within five minutes of me sitting down, she had asked my entire life story and was attempting to set me up with her single son. After letting Wendy down easy (“I’m too old for your son”), we had a good laugh and the rest is history. Another favorite was the trip to Memphis this past December to go run the St. Jude Marathon with several NRC club members, including carpooling and rooming with Kendra Mugnano. It was such a fun trip seeing friends at the Expo the day before, enjoying a pre-race dinner as a group, and running and seeing fellow NRC friends on the course! While an injury slowed me down more than I would have liked, I still had a great time completing my first marathon and credit this group for peer pressuring me into achieving a marathon finish about 18 months after my first run with NRC!

NRC: Wow, 18 months from your first run with us to completing your first marathon! Tell me about that running build up from your first run with the club to the marathon. Who motivated you to complete such a feat?

Caitlin: Everyone in NRC is such an inspiration! Before I started running with NRC, my typical run was 4 miles and my “long” run was 5 miles, and my longest run ever was 8 miles. Through some peer pressure from club members like Andy Michael and some encouragement from Wendy Mucci, I ran Rollin Nolen 10 miler within 2 months of joining NRC in October 2021 followed by my first half marathon, Oak Barrel, in Spring 2022.

NRC: Those are both great races, if we do say so ourselves. What are some other favorite races you’ve completed?

Caitlin: Rollin Nolen was a favorite- I love the scenery of that course and enjoyed the training runs previewing the course with some of my Saturday morning running crew. I even finished 3rd in my age group (which, by the way, I am still waiting on my Age Group Winner print, Scott Alexander!). I love the Oak Barrel Half Marathon because it feels like family with so many fellow NRCers out there running it. Memphis Full Marathon was also one of my favorites, though it was difficult. I suffered an IT band injury about 5 weeks before Race Day and it definitely made the marathon more challenging than I hoped it would be. I saw several fellow NRCers on the course that day which was helpful, but I’d say the wheels really fell off for me around mile 15. Miles 20-22 were especially rough and I suffered some serious calf cramping after jumping up for a high five; luckily, there was a gentleman who massaged my cramping calves and a St. Jude nurse who gave me some crackers and Gatorade to help with the cramping. After saying “I am sorry for whatever I said while I was cramping” to both, I made my way to the finish (albeit a bit slower than I hoped) and crossed that finish line to ring the bell!

NRC: So it sounds like you’ve dealt with a running injury recently; how have you dealt with running injuries and what helps you get through them?

Caitlin: I really haven’t had any significant injuries (knocking on the wood table) from running. Sure, I’ve suffered some bad blisters in the military but the IT band and knee pain during marathon training was a whole new experience for me. The injury physically hurts but I also find it mentally challenging to not run or limit my mileage. I miss my friends when I can’t run with them! That said, I find progress, even if it’s slow, always helps; I am still recovering from Memphis and I remind myself to be grateful to be able to run even just a few miles with the group and I know I’ll work my way back towards my pre-injury self.

NRC: I think we can all relate to that! That said, what is your current training goal?

Caitlin: To be pain free! I don’t have a race on the calendar so I am focused on increasing my mileage slowly and safely to four runs per week and working my way back to my weekly long run being closer to 10 miles. Oh wait, I do have a race on the calendar- Oak Barrel in April! (I think every runner in NRC can relate to this too- having so many races that you “forget” about a half marathon coming up in a few months!)

NRC: Let’s talk about your family. Do they live nearby? Do they run too?

Caitlin: My dad and stepmom ran growing up and I recall joining them when I was young. My mom’s a great supporter but not a runner herself. I have an older brother and a twin sister, Emily; Emily runs a little because she has to stay in shape for her Air Force physical fitness test. All of my family is back in Massachusetts, but Emily’s stationed only about 4 hours away right now and we’ve really enjoyed spending more time together since she is so close. Emily and I being twins makes for a fun dynamic and like all healthy sibling relationships, there is certainly a rivalry between us. I like to say that though Emily outranks me, I can run faster than her! (We bet Caitlin can run faster than a lot of people in any branch of the military!)

NRC: Thank you and your sister for your service. Can you tell us more about your time in the military?

Caitlin: I joined the Army National Guard back in 2012. It sounded like a great fit for a teacher- just one weekend per month and a few weeks in the summer. That said, one weekend turned into 4- and 5-day weekends and a few weeks in the summer turned into what feels like the whole summer. (Sounds eerily like some suspect running-mileage math in NRC!) That said, my school has been amazing at arranging long-term substitutes while I’m away for training. I deployed for a year to Ukraine, but I’ve also spent some time in Germany and I’ve got another stint in Eastern Europe coming up this spring.



NRC: Back to running… what is a race on your bucket list?

Caitlin: Before I joined NRC, I didn’t know destination races were even a thing! However, I love to travel so I’d be game for anywhere. Berlin and London come to mind as great spots to log some race miles!

NRC: We are sure no matter what destination you choose, you’ll crush the next race and I’m sure you’ll have some NRC friends excited to join you for the adventure. We also hope you’re healthy for Oak Barrel in a few months. Congratulations and we are so glad you’re part of the NRC family!

Speed Round:

NRC: Favorite mid run fuel?
Caitlin: NRC introduced me to Clif Blocks and I love them; the Salted Watermelon is my favorite flavor!

NRC: What’s your hidden talent?
Caitlin: I can juggle – up to 4 balls and 3 clubs! I taught myself while deployed with a lot of free time.

NRC: Most scenic or unique run?
Caitlin: Tie between the Rollin Nolen and the Mongolian desert.

NRC: Any hobbies?
Caitlin: Cycling (both road and mountain) and indoor rock climbing.

NRC Runner of the Month – Kendra Mugnano

Our next runner of the month found her way to NRC by way of a teacher friend at Centennial High School and we are so happy that our group “aced the test” when it came to keeping Kendra motivated to continue running, even in the heat and humidity of Tennessee.

Kendra Mugnano is known to be one of our most consistent and fastest ladies in the group, but she claims she wasn’t always that fast or athletic (I assure you that she’s just being hard on herself!).  She has completed many half and full marathons and is hopeful to add a few more big ones to her resume.  When we reached out to Kendra to congratulate her on being selected as Runner of the Month, she was surprised and didn’t think she was interesting enough to fill an article.  Even after running many miles alongside her (mostly me trying to hang on at her faster pace), even I learned a few new interesting things about her and her running history!  Read on to get to know Kendra a little better, including how her husband signing her up for a relay eventually led to her running her first marathon, how she grew closer to one of her running best friends, Liz, over a trash can in the Columbus Marathon, and some of her favorite races thus far and those to come.

NRC: I know you’re not originally from the Nashville area, so where did you grow up and where else have you lived prior to moving to Tennessee?

Kendra: I was born in the very small town of Norwalk, Ohio and grew up in Lodi, Ohio. I have also lived in Connecticut, Indiana, and Cleveland, OH most recently before settling in nearby Brentwood.  My husband, John, is an attorney for Bridgestone, so his job is what ultimately moved us from Cleveland to Nashville.

NRC: You’re pretty darn fast!  What kind of running did you do growing up and did you play any other sports?

Kendra: I didn’t even start running until my late 20s!  Honestly, I was not very athletic as a kid; I played softball and the coach put me in right field (which for those not as familiar with baseball and softball, generally gets less action from hitters) with another girl who also wasn’t very good.  The only other extracurricular of note was Color Guard in high school.  I didn’t have much time for sports growing up because I was determined to eventually move away from home, and so I started my first job in high school as a cashier at the Ben Franklin Five and Dime Store to save for college.

NRC: Speaking of college, I know you and your husband met at Miami University in Oxford, OH and now your oldest son also attends there.  Tell us more about that!  

Kendra: My dad’s cousin worked at Miami University and I attended a wedding near campus in middle school; I fell in love with the campus and knew I wanted to go there eventually.  It is also where I met my future husband; John and I met at Miami my sophomore year of college.  We met in the dining hall through mutual friends and when I called him a few weeks later to ask him to be my date for a sorority party, he said yes but thought I was someone else since making plans then was done solely by phone.  He was a gentleman though (he didn’t act too surprised) and we had a great time and now, the rest is history; in fact, this November, we have been together for 33 years and married for 27 years!  We have two sons, Johnny (who is a junior at Miami University studying to be an engineer) and Joe, who is a high school senior at Father Ryan.

NRC: Speaking of your husband, John, you say you blame him for really getting your running journey started.  How did that come to be?

Kendra: While John was finishing law school at Cleveland Marshall, we moved in with his parents for four years and running became my escape from my father-in-law, who was great to be around, but living under the same roof for four years was a lot, especially in the summer when I wasn’t working as a teacher.  I would go for longer runs to have some time and space to myself!  Once John finished his law degree, we moved into our own home just in time to welcome our firstborn, Johnny, home.

NRC: I know getting summers off to run and read are some of your favorite parts about being a teacher but what else do you love about the profession?

Kendra:  I have taught high school math for 30 years now and seeing the growth and progression of the kids as they grasp new concepts is incredibly rewarding!

NRC: We’ve talked a good bit about your husband, John, and how he got you into running so let’s talk about the rest of your family- your sons and dogs; do any of them run too? What kinds of things do y’all enjoy doing together?

Kendra: Our oldest son, Johnny, is a Junior at Miami studying mechanical engineering and he plays on Miami’s club hockey team; when Johnny was about 10, he would ride his bike alongside me for some of my longer training runs (sounds like a great way to spend time together!).  Joe is our younger son and he’s a Senior at Father Ryan who used to play on a travel hockey team but now just plays high school hockey.  Our family dog, Velvet who we lost recently was a great training partner to run with; we now have Bella and I hope to eventually run with her, but she is still young (about 14 months old) and while she loves walking, she still has some opportunity with pacing (you and me both, Bella!).

NRC: Back to running, tell us about one of your first races that really got you more serious and competitive about running.

Kendra: The Akron Marathon has a big relay and John’s company, Bridgestone, sponsored several relay teams.  John volunteered me for a team since he didn’t want to do it and this was a big deal because people from Bridgestone came from all over the country to compete and they placed me on the “fast” team.  We raced well and I had a great time getting to know some of my relay teammates, especially a woman named Sherry.  Finishing that relay motivated me to do the Twin Cities Marathon in 2012 alongside Sherry.  Since then, Sherry and I have run several marathons including Columbus and Big Sur.

NRC: How did you hear about NRC?

Kendra: It was a fellow teacher at Centennial High School, Preston Johnson, who used to be an NRC regular on Wednesday nights and on the trails Saturday until he moved to East Nashville.  I had just finished a few marathons in a short amount of time and Preston recommended NRC as a great way to train, stay motivated to run, and of course, meet great people!

NRC: We are so glad he sent you our way!  What is one of your favorite things about NRC?

Kendra: I love the camaraderie and longer conversations we can have on our Saturday long runs that keep me motivated and help the miles go by much faster!  I enjoy catching miles on Saturday around Nolensville and Brentwood with friends and fellow NRCers, David Behnen, Andy Michael, Andy Dabson, Caitlin McGuire, Andrea Klint, Scott Alexander, Kyle Prince, and Michael Teague.  We recently had a perfect fall run up Burke Hollow and while the incline was a bit steep, the fall foliage was beautiful and the temperatures were perfect for this native Ohioan.

NRC: Who are some great runners you find motivating in your life?

Kendra: All of my Strava friends who I see out there each and every day logging miles, especially folks like Jason Loyd who run some crazy long distances and then get right back out there again within a day or two.  I also stay in touch with my running partner, Liz, from Ohio, who I met through teaching; we travel to races together and hold each other accountable for training.  When I ran the Columbus Marathon, I incidentally found Liz getting sick alongside the course; I stayed with her the whole race and we finished together. Since then, Liz and I have run Columbus again (no vomiting this time!), Boston, Big Sur, and the Disney Princess Half Marathon.

NRC: What have been some of your most notable or favorite races you’ve done?

Kendra: NYC Marathon because it was my PR (3:31) and it’s also NYC!  Big Sur was beautiful though very challenging with hills; the road was so cambered for water run off and it made the long distance run on it more challenging.

NRC: What are some races you’re currently training for?

Kendra: I am running the Half Monkey the first weekend in November and Liz and I will be tackling the hills of the Boston Marathon again in April 2023.

NRC: If you could run any race, what would it be?

Kendra: I’d love to finish the 6 major races- I still have Berlin, London, and Tokyo left having already completed NYC, Chicago, and Boston.  London would be first on my list and in fact, I’ve started looking at hopefully making that race happen in 2024.

NRC: We are sure no matter what big race you pick next, you’ll crush it and we can’t wait to cheer for you.  Congratulations and we are so glad you’re part of the NRC family!

Speed Round:

NRC: What is your favorite mid-run fuel?
Kendra:  I don’t eat while I run, except for maybe a few gummies or Clif blocks and a couple sips of Gatorade during a marathon.

NRC: What is something surprising about you that no one in NRC would guess?
Kendra: If I was not a teacher, I would be a weather girl!  (I am with her on this one- they get to be wrong often and keep their job!)

NRC: What is one of the most scenic or unique places you’ve run?
Kendra: Big Sur Marathon and running the Manitou Incline outside of Colorado Springs (it’s about 2,700 steps with 2000 ft of elevation gain in about a mile!)

NRC: What are some of your hobbies?
Kendra: Reading during the summer (I usually read 14-15 books in a 2 month period)

NRC Runner of the Month – Allison Kusch

Our next Runner of the Month didn’t come to the club fresh off the couch on her way to a 5K nor did she stalk us on Facebook before braving a Wednesday night run.  Nope.  Allison Kusch found her inspiration to lace up with NRC crewing for her then boyfriend, Kyle Prince, deep in the muddy, hill-acious trails of the Stump Jump 50K with the infamous DES trail tribe!  Talk about a making a big impression! 😊

That was four years and many epic finish lines ago – from trails to road races and a ton of Wednesday/Saturday runs in between.  That’s why we couldn’t believe it when we reached out to Allison for this interview that she was a little shocked to be called out as “Runner” of the Month.

Well, we are here to tell you, Allison is not only 100% a tough runner, but a positive force on any course and one of the most kind and welcoming members of our crew.  But, there’s so much more to her incredible story, so read on to learn more about what got her into running, how her family almost got arrested on a football field one summer vacation, and the exciting walk down the aisle that will have our entire running crew high-fiving.

NRC:  So, you’ve been a part of NRC since 2018, but we’d love to know more about your childhood and life before moving to Nolensville.

Allison: I was born and raised in Murfreesboro (aka The Boro)! Which, fun fact, is the geographical center of the state of Tennessee. I am a Riverdale High School graduate! After graduating high school, I moved to Norman, Oklahoma for college (Boomer!). After graduating college, I moved to Stillwater, Oklahoma (just… Boo!) for my very first “big girl” job! Within a year, I was promoted to the company’s headquarters which brought me full circle back home to middle Tennessee!

NRC: Hah!  Bet that was hard moving from OU into the land of OSU!  Growing up were you into sports, the arts, academics, all of the above? 

Allison: My parents put me and my brothers in sports as soon as we were old enough – or at least old enough to pass as old enough!  I was on travel teams for soccer, basketball, and softball growing up. My travel softball team made it to the Softball World Series three years in a row which, as a kid, was THE coolest!! We got to travel to North Carolina, Oklahoma, and even Florida where we got to play in Disney’s Wide World of Sports complex in Orlando! I played sports throughout high school, lettering in softball and volleyball. I was not ready to give up sports in college, so I joined my sorority’s intramurals team. We played every sport they offered – flag football, water polo, basketball, pickle ball, you name it! You are lookin’ at the winner of mixed-partner horseshoes, all-girls whiffle ball, and 2-time winner of 2-(wo)man sand volleyball! Safe to say I did not peak in high school! 😉

NRC: That’s so awesome!  I vote you as the new NRC horseshoes and whiffle ball committee chair!  LOL!  Sounds like your family was really outgoing and supportive of you in all those adventures.

Allison: My family is truly the greatest!!! I feel so lucky to have such a tight knit family! I don’t know what I would do or who I would be without them! Most of my family still lives in Murfreesboro, with the exception of my mom who lives in Norman. We try to get together for a Sunday-funday as often as possible. And if nothing else, I try to see my two sweet little nephews once a week. They love “family dinners” and I literally cannot say no to that!

NRC: How cool that you have so many in your family right down the road and such a blessing that you all are so close!  What awesome memories you must have over the years. Any memorable moments from your childhood that stand out?

Allison: Part of the University of Oklahoma’s fight song is “Sooner born, Sooner bred” and I truly was! My parents went to and met each other at OU. My brothers and I did not stand a chance! We have been wearing Crimson and Cream since we were born! Growing up, the main characters of our bedtime stories were Barry Switzer, Bill Sims, and Brian Bosworth!

Over the summers when we were little, our parents would take us on road trips to see our grandparents who lived in Oklahoma and Kansas. We would always stop in Norman on our way to Enid, OK (which was about an hour and a half north). One time we pulled up to the stadium and as luck would have it, the gate to get onto the football field was wide open! It was my dad and brothers’ dream come true! They walked onto the field, taking it all in, throwing and catching fake passes and in less than a minute the campus police came rolling up, sirens blaring! Apparently there were silent alarms on the field! Whoops! Needless to say, we did not get out to look at the field on any future trips!

NRC: No way!!!  That is so awesome!  So, you mentioned that work brought you back to middle TN.  Would you share a little about what you do?

Allison: I work for a company that partners with state and government officials to provide halfway housing and residential reentry facilities for justice-involved individuals. We provide housing, meals, programming, and services to help assist returning citizens with reintegration into their communities. The goal for us is to provide the men and women in our care with the tools they need to stay out of the criminal justice system. It is so amazing to hear the success stories of people who have the odds against them and come out on top!

NRC: Wow!  I can imagine that is challenging, but really rewarding!  Now, word on the street is that you and Kyle “Birdman” Prince, of the NRC DES crew, are planning a wedding for sometime this fall?  If so, will you be wearing sneakers with your dress?

Allison: It is true!!! That cutie is off the market!  We are getting married in November overlooking the Smokey Mountains! Shoes are undecided at this point, but I’m thinking maybe some heels to match Kyle’s forest green suit for the ceremony and then switching into some flats for the reception so we can tear up the dance floor! Weddings are just a fancy party after all, aren’t they?!

NRC: Absolutely!  That’s gonna be one epic party!  Y’all are such a cute couple!  How long have you known Kyle? Any fun or favorite dating stories? 

Allison: I met Kyle through work! I procrastinated a project I was responsible for and I emailed Kyle at 9pm the day before it was due to ask for information I should have gotten from him WEEKS before! He came in early the following morning to meet with me and bail me out!

Through conversation in future work projects (that I did not procrastinate on) I figured out he was a runner! So he quickly became my Educational Services Subject Matter Expert annnnddd my running Subject Matter Expert!

Funny dating story – Our relationship evolved so organically that we didn’t even know when we “officially started dating” until 2021! We finally decided it was something we’d like to know, so we sat down at a brewery in Asheville, NC and started pulling up old bank statements. Our first date was November 18th, 2017!

NRC:  Heh!  Not pulling up old bank statements?!  That’s awesome!  Bet that was fun looking back on all the fun times to finally find that first date. 😊  

So, I guess I should ask about running at some point!  LOL!  When did running become a part of your life? 

Allison: One of my brothers talked me into doing the Murfreesboro Middle Half in 2017. That was my first long distance race ever. He had done a few half marathons before and was very dedicated to his training program. I noticed what a difference it made for him both mentally and physically. And I was at a point in my life where I needed the discipline and a positive change. So I signed up! He ran every step of the way with me while my dad and stepmom rode their bikes around to cheer us on at as many points in the race as possible! (We ran 13.1 miles and they biked 8! I told you my family is the best!)

NRC:  That is such a fun race and a perfect one to start with as your first!  When you did start running with NRC? 

Allison: I let Kyle talk me into a flat route run with NRC, pre-COVID when the bigger group was still meeting at Town Hall. I had recently moved closer to Nolensville from the Hermitage area. For the first time in my life, I was living by myself and was in a “new city.” Running was part of my fitness routine and I needed to meet people in the area, so it just made sense!

Kyle and I moved in together in the spring of 2020 and COVID was in full force! Wednesdays were always off-limits for date nights because “on Wednesdays we run!” so I thought… if you can’t beat ’em, join ’em! 

The club was doing Webex Wednesdays, but a handful of folks met IRL at Campo and got some miles in from there! Kyle and I were training for a race we hoped would still take place in the fall, so I used the NRC Wednesday run as my mid-week run and eventually found friends around my pace to run with on Saturdays for my long runs!

NRC: What is one of your most memorable moments with NRC?

Allison: While we were on a long-weekend trip with some of the DES crew in September, some of the less “runner-y” wives, such as myself, got talked into signing up for the Stump Jump 10 Miler… that was in October! I had never run on a trail a day in my life, but within a week of us getting back home I had all the gear I needed (fake it ’til you make it, right?!). We got out to Smith Park two times a week for the 6 weeks we had to train! And we freaking did it! We crossed the finish line marking our first trail race and our longest time spent running. It was so awesome! To this day I am still so proud of us! (Shout out to Grace Michael and Angie Bivens!)

NRC: YES!  That is so awesome!  One of the first times I talked with you, I think you were training for the Yamacraw 25K or some other uber-tough trail race. Would you share a few of your favorite running accomplishments or races?

Allison: It is soooo crazy to me to think this all the way through, because even now, today, I truly do not even consider myself to be “a runner.” There is just so much I don’t know about the sport. And honestly, for me personally, I don’t even consider it “sport” when I am doing it!! It is just exercise, or better yet – social hour! 

My first half marathon was the Murfreesboro Middle Half in 2017. To date, I have run two 25ks, a 20k, 8 half marathons, a 10 miler, and a Ragnar (Chattanooga to Nashville) – with a handful of holiday 5ks peppered in here and there!

NRC: What races are on your calendar for this year?

Allison: I talked Traci Boswell and Wendy Cook-Mucci into signing up for the Swinging Bridge Half Marathon trail race which we just ran at the end August! I also have the Ragnar Bourbon Chase in KY in Sept. and the Middle Half (again, I know) in October!

NRC: Aside from Kyle, of course, are there any NRCers who have made a difference in your running story?

Allison: I would not show up to any run/race/etc. if it were not for Traci Boswell or Wendy Cook-Mucci. Traci is the BEST training partner and running spouse a girl could ask for! Why she slows down to run with me I will never know! But boy am I thankful she does! And I think EVERY NRC member could say this, but Wendy is the absolute best cheerleader! She is the team mom, the action photographer, and the life of the run party! I would not have been able to complete my longest trail runs without her being my carrot, motivating me to keep moving forward. Both Traci and Wendy make it easy to escape into conversation and forget about how mundane/hard/hot/etc. running can be. These two ladies are NRC gold!

NRC: 100% agree!  For our final question, if you could go back in time and give a message to yourself, when you first started running, what would you say?

Allison: Keep lacing up those shoes and keep showing up for yourself!

It really is so hard to put into words, but more than anything running (and running with NRC) has helped me grow so much, in many different aspects! I have become more mentally tough and I now KNOW I can do hard things! Running has brought me closer to my family (who shows up to cheer for me at all of my races), closer to my best friends from college (who, even now from four different states, are my running accountability buddies each and every month for the last three years), and it has given me new friends (NRCers) who make me WANT to show up on Wednesday nights and get up early on the weekends – which if you know me really says a lot! Last but not least, running gave me my future husband! It does not get better than that! 

NRC: You’re so right!  You can’t beat that!  Congratulations and best wishes for the big day and we look forward to lots more celebrations with y’all in the future.  We’re so glad you’re a part of the NRC family! 

SPEED ROUND – Allison Kusch

Go-to hype song:  My “power song” is a Marine Corp running cadence chant – for me it is sentimental and inspiring and it puts things into perspective!

Game Changing Gear: What is a run-life without Body Glide and Feetures?

Game Changing Fuel: I have started putting Liquid IV in my water and it is definitely a game changer! Flavor, calories, electrolytes, salt – it is LIFE in this heat! Also, there is nothing better than post-race chocolate milk and you cannot change my mind!

Favorite summer treat:  ICE CREAM!!!!!!! I am surprised I have not yet gotten kicked out of Jeni’s for sampling basically every single flavor they have every single time I go in!

NRC Runner of the Month – Erin Petree

Our next runner of the month has been a part of our club for over 8 years and has crossed many a finish line during that time, from the Chicago marathon to the Rollin’ Nolen 10 miler and so many others, some of those while pushing a stroller!  If you haven’t met Erin Petree yet, you probably already know her amazing smile.  She is also one of the most dedicated and focused runners in our crew, finding her running groove through not one, not two, but three pregnancies during her time with NRC!  With the support of her husband, Robert, who is also a strong runner, their family is all about staying active!  Like the words of one of her favorite lyrics says, “Life’s a dance you learn as you go.”  And, Erin is definitely enjoying the dance every step of the way!

We had a chance to ask Erin a few questions and get the scoop on her running story.  Read on to find out about what got her into running, her epic engagement, her cross-training tips, and of course, her favorite things about NRC!

NRC:  So, Erin, tell us a little bit about where you’re from.  Were you a runner in your early years?

Erin: I was born in Charlotte, NC and moved to Hilton Head, SC when I was in 2nd grade.  I never ran in school. I played soccer from kindergarten all the way through 9th grade and did one year of crew. Playing sports was the only running I did while I was growing up.

NRC:  Well, soccer requires a LOT of running, so I’d say that counts!  When did you start running outside of soccer?  Was there a specific motivation to start?

Erin: I started running right around the time I met my husband, Robert, but very short distances. He motivated me to get more active and I did my first half in Charleston, SC before we moved. It wasn’t until we moved here that I got more into distance running. I signed up for the Fleet Feet training group for the half and learned how to properly train. We also started running with NRC.

NRC:  Very cool!  So, for those who don’t know, your husband Robert is one of the NRC fasties!  A strong runner since his school days, he’s achieved some awesome goals, including an injury comeback that led him to running Boston 2022!  When did you and Robert meet? 

Erin: Robert and I met December 2010. His good friend from college was dating (now married to) my best friend from high school.  When Robert proposed, he set up a huge surprise with 40+ people in Charleston.  He had each of our friends participate carrying signs with some of his favorite memories we had from dating. It was absolutely perfect.

NRC:  He organized over 40 people for your engagement!  Okay, that is amazing!  So, what drew you both to move to Nolensville and how did you find out about NRC?

Erin: Robert and I moved here in 2013 for jobs and to be closer to our family. Robert’s sister lives here in Franklin and my parents live in Knoxville.  I don’t quite remember how we heard about NRC, maybe through Fleet Feet, but I love the people and the encouragement. I’ve made some of my best friends through the club and for that I am so grateful!

NRC:  It’s funny that you mention running friends… while I personally consider you a great friend and running ally – and can say that you have inspired me many times over the years with how you make time for the important things in your world, including your health!  I also took the liberty of asking a few of your closest friends, the amazing Tandy Campbell and always-hilarious Mary Kate Pollreis, to share a few words about running with you.

Mary Kate said, “One of the very first times I came to NRC with no one to run with I turned around to two strangers and just said “What pace do y’all run?” It was Erin and Tandy and now I can’t imagine running without them! Not only is Erin a great friend and running partner, but her older son Aiden and Collins became fast friends too AND trained for a race together.  Also, I had to poop on a run and it was only a month into knowing Erin. I thought FOR SURE that would be the end of our friendship, but she has stuck by my side. LOL!”

 Tandy said, “Erin is one of the most organized, structured people I know! She is a great mom and loves her little family so much.  I enjoyed running many miles with her as she trained for her first Marathon which she crushed!  We are like therapists for each other all the time. I keep telling her as long as she keeps getting pregnant and having babies, I’ll be able to keep up with her!”

 Erin: I would not be where I am as a runner if it wasn’t for my friends in NRC. They have continued to run with me through now three pregnancies and have been so patient to run whatever pace was right for me in each season of life. I am so grateful for the friendships I have made through NRC! 


NRC:
 I’m sure just about everyone one of our NRCers can relate to what it means to have these kinds of friendships.  Do you have a favorite memory with NRC?

Erin: My favorite memory is probably my first race back, post baby, at the Nolensville 5k. It was so fun to have so many friends out as I pushed the stroller to the finish!

NRC:  You’ve done a lot of races over the years! Out of all your running experiences, what are a few accomplishments that stand out to you?

Erin: My biggest accomplishment was finishing the Chicago marathon in 2016. Second to that would be the Oak Barrel half in 2017 with my current PR of 1:50:18. One day when our kids are a little older, I hope to get back and do another marathon!

NRC:  I know from talking with you on runs that you have done cross-training along with running.  What activities do you do or have you done that helped your running?  

Erin: Prior to kids, I did barre along with running. I definitely would credit barre to completing marathon training injury free. The past year and a half, I have switched to doing the peloton 1-2 days a week along with running (easier with the kids). I love switching it up and feeling like I’m working other muscles we don’t use running. Otherwise, my cross training includes chasing two crazy toddlers around. Haha!

NRC:  Together, you and Robert are such a great team and I know you’re often tagging each other as you take turns getting in your runs.  What are some of the ways you’ve worked to support each other with your running goals?

Erin:  We are both so supportive of each other. We make time to let each other get our workouts in, whether it be getting up early or coming home from work early. I wouldn’t still be running this much if it wasn’t for Robert’s support and flexibility to help with the kids so I can have time to get in a run.

NRC:  With two active young boys and a baby girl due Sept. 2022, it has been awesome to see you at NRC Wednesdays pushing one or both of your boys in the stroller well into your pregnancy. How important is it to you to set an example of staying active for your kiddos?  (And, um, do they make triple strollers?)

Erin: I wish there was a stroller for all three! It’s very important to me for the kids to see us staying active. I want it to be something they are excited about. Whether it be running or another sport, I want them to want to stay active and enjoy being outside as much as we do!

NRC:  With baby coming soon, what is your current training focus?  What would be the top race on your bucket list?

Erin: My current focus is just staying healthy, active and listening to my body. At 28 weeks, I am nearing the end of my running journey this pregnancy.  I’ve been so lucky to be able to run for all three pregnancies and truly feel it has helped me bounce back quicker.

One day, I’d love to do another marathon!  Also, would love to do the Napa to Sonoma half marathon one day!

NRC:  Absolutely!  I do have to say that “love” is not a word most people associate with marathons, but then most people don’t get to run with NRC!  I can bet that you could get more than a few to join you in Napa, too! Congrats, Erin!  You are such a strong member of NRC and we’re so glad to have you and the whole Petree crew as part of our running family! 

SPEED ROUND – Erin Petree

Favorite food to throw on the grill: Hamburgers! I have craved them this whole pregnancy 🙂

Do you run with music or other diversions? If alone, I always have to have music but I much prefer running and chatting with friends.

Hobbies outside of running:  Currently just being a mom. I’ve recently “retired” to stay at home with the kids and have been loving taking the boys on all sorts of adventures this summer.

Dream vacation spot – no limitations?   Greece or anywhere with a beach!