Runner's Spotlight: Meet Elizabeth Rehmer

I got to thinking on a run the other day that it would be fun to feature a different runner each week on my blog. We spend so much of our time blogging about our running experiences, why not share someone else's? My Twitter friend Elizabeth Rehmer kindly accepted my invitation to be the first runner featured. Elizabeth is a two-time overall female winner of the Twitter Road Race and an avid sewer outside of her running life. So, without further adieu, I give you my interview with Elizabeth!

Q: When did you start running and why? 

I began running at the age of 9.  I used to ride the bike with my father while he ran and then one day I wanted to try running.  I loved it and have done it pretty regularly since.
Q: What are your current running goals?
My current running goals are to keep reaching for the BQ.  I also have an ongoing goal to finish each race with a smile.  I love running and hope to be the 92 year old lady in the Nike ads, so I don't want to ever leave that bad taste in my mouth.  Don't get me wrong, some training runs involve tears, bouts of nausea and a lot of pain, but those are to prep me for a successful race so I can enjoy it while crushing it! 
Q: Do you remember what your first race was?
Aside from track meets, my first race was a St. Patrick's Day race in Anaconda, Montana.  It was a 10k I ran with a few friends.
Q: What was your most memorable race?
It's hard to say which race was most memorable--some are just super fun events like the Disney Princess Half that I ran in a Minnie Mouse costume with my aunt, and of course my first marathon.  I ran Boston for charity and being from there--that race was AMAZING.  I see why its the mecca; however, I just had a PR (like 13 minutes!!:)) in Chicago.  And that race was FUN, FAST and efficient. The Nike women's run in San Fran was also a fave.  Ran with my #SistersInNike.  Amazing course, great views and a Tiffany Finishers necklace--phenomenal event!  I can't choose!! I just love races to be surrounded by other runners. 
Q: Who is the biggest motivator in your life?
My family and friends have always given me great support (parents and aunts and friends traveling around the country to watch me run!!) But I think the biggest motivation I get is from my senior citizen clients (80+ in years) that still have a strenuous workout regime.  These people keep me going.  They exemplify that it pays off down the road.
Q: What is your favorite quote?
I have several favorite quotes, but the one that pushed me through a very successful training for Chicago was "Don't half ass it and it will be worth it."  Not the most PC--but my step father (who has passed) used to say it to me when I would become complacent in my running or training.  And it works.  Meet each goal of specific workouts and results will be achieved.
Q: If you could only give one piece of running advice to a newbie runner, what would it be?
I think one needs to get in shape to run, not run to get in shape; therefore, take baby steps with running. Also, some days are harder than others, even to experienced runners.  Running is mental--so somedays eeking out a mile is misery and then the next day a 20+ miler may feel like cake.  Just ease into it and stick with it.
Q: When is your next race?
My next race is the Huffing for Stuffing, a 10k on turkey day in Bozeman, Montana.  There is a virtual 10k in February, but I do need to choose another full marathon.  I am open to suggestions!! :) 
Q: Anything else we should know about you?
I have a blog at sewrunningcrazy.blogspot.com that I recently began to share my experience as a Nike Women's Ambassador.  I am on Twitter @turtlegirl00 and love motivating/helping other people with their running or exercising.