Blyss Running Champion - Meet Monica
I've known Monica for about 8 years. We met through some mutual friends because our kids played soccer for the same club and we needed some help with the school/soccer carpool. Since then I've come to know her and her family quite well. She is someone who was the polar opposite of me growing up. I call her affectionately, my sporty friend. She's a natural doing anything sport related. In a few months, Monica will turn 55 and she's not slowing down one bit! Monica is the Spanish speaking liaison for the local soccer club here in Asheville. Because of her laid back profession, she is able to wear her favorite Blyss pieces to work. She loves the skirts for running, the shorts for the gym and capris for work. I think she owns everything Blyss offers! Meet Monica.... sporty, kind-hearted and full of life.
When and why did you start running? What’s your story?
I have been running since I can remember! When I was little, I loved to outrun the boys in my school. I started to run 10Ks in my mid 20s and have been running different races & distances since then. Running gives me a sense of freedom & peace of mind.
Favorite distance? And /or favorite race you have run?
I don’t run as much as I used to, but it varied from 6 miles to 26 miles. Now, I settle for whatever I can run! My favorite race is the 8 Tuff Miles on St. John, USVI. Hard as hell, and I found out soon after I ran it, that I was pregnant while running that race! I would add the Marine Corps Marathon as a close 2nd...an awesome feeling of accomplishment after I crossed that finish line.
If you could go on a run anywhere, where would it be? Your ideal run?
We have so many great trails around Asheville but probably a trail run in Dupont Forest. My ideal run is wherever the weather is not too cold and with friends.
Favorite pre or post run food?
Pre: I prefer to run in the mornings, so it has to be something like a banana or granola bar, & a couple of sips of coffee. Post: Eggs, toast & more coffee….or a cold beer!
Do you cross train?
Yes, I swim, bike and I try to go to the gym a 3-4 days / week.
{Monica celebrating after a sprint triathlon last summer wearing her Trail Skirt}
Do you use a GPS or track your mileage and if so, which one?
Not really. I just use an app called Strava on my phone to keep my time, speed and how far I go.
What have you learned through running?
Running gives me mental strength. I’ve learnt that I can push myself further than I thought, that I’m capable of anything I put my mind to. Running is tough sometimes but empowering!
Your next running goal?
Someday I would like to do another marathon, but to be honest just being able to run is a gift.
Find Your Blyss,
Alyson
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