Who Has The Runs: Deloris C has the runs

The next installment of "People who have the runs"

"I tell myself to 'shut up and just do it'"

Why do you run?

I run because I love it. Running has helped me become healthier, happier and a better person. Running has given me the confidence that I can do anything as long as I try.

How long have you been running? How did you get started? Why did you choose running over other activities?

I started running in junior high when I joined the track team. I was a sprinter in seventh grade. A very slow sprinter. I switched to distance in eighth grade. When I was in junior high/high school, running was shared with basketball. I played on the basketball team my entire school career. Since basketball and track were in different seasons, I didn't chose one over the other.

How do you motivate yourself to run regularly? What about on the days the weather is bad or your are feeling particularly lazy?

Running is something I need to do to feel good. There are days where I don't feel like running, but I get dressed and do it. After a run, I'm always glad to have done it. Practically all of my daily runs are done my treadmill. I can't use bad weather as an excuse to not run.

Do you use a running coach, or read any books to aid in your training?

I do not have a running coach. I get ideas for workouts from running magazines (i.e. Runner's World or Running Times) or from other runners on dailymile.

How do you fit running in with your daily schedule?

When I get home from work in the morning, I have about two hours to run before eating lunch with my husband. Whatever I don't finish before stopping for lunch, I do after lunch. I run when I get home from work because I work a split shift, mornings and evenings. I have a huge gap of time before heading back to work and those free hours allow me to get my long daily runs completed.

Can Lake 50K - 10/08/2011

Do your friends and family support your running or think you are crazy?

My family and friends support me. But they do think I'm crazy that I want to run 50 and 100 Mile races.

What is your favorite running terrain (road, trail, treadmill)

I love running on my treadmill. I can zone out, watch TV and not worry about twisting my ankles when running. My favorite terrain to race on is the road.

What is the hardest race you’ve run to date?

The hardest race I have ever run was Dances with Dirt 50K in Hell, Michigan. I tripped and fell over 10 times, climbed up steep hills on my hands and knees, ran over difficult terrain (rocks, roots) and walked through rivers. I kept my emotions in check during the race and focused on racing. I never gave up and kept going. I called my husband when I was finished to let him know I was on my way home. While on the phone with him, I broke down and cried. I never expected the race to be that difficult and all the emotions that I had during the race finally came to the surface. That extreme trail race reminded me how much I love road racing.

What is the most enjoyable race you’ve run to date?

Glass City Half Marathon in Toledo, Ohio, It was the flattest course I have ever run and I set a PR. (That PR stood for five months) It was a perfect day in April. Temps were cool and there was just a little breeze. A great day to run.

Have you ever been injured due to running? What were the ramifications?

I had plantar fasciitis back in 2009, from January to October. I don't know if I got PF from running, being overweight or wearing worn out shoes. Maybe it was a combination of all three. My foot doctor limited me to only running 15 miles a week. That was torture to me. I didn't listen to him at first. After having PF for a couple of months and it wasn't getting any better, I decided it was best to follow his instructions. Running only 15 miles a week and going to physical therapy really helped me. Running with pain for 10 months wasn't fun, but I did it. Now, any day I can run it is always a great day. I'm thankful I overcame PF and appreciate running so much more.

Do you use any music or run tracking devices when you run, or are you a naked runner?

I watch TV to help pass time when I run on my treadmill. When running races I listen to my iPod.

How do you get yourself through the difficult parts of your runs? Do you have a personal mantra or do you just give up?

I tell myself to keep my legs moving and just stick with it. Sometimes on my daily runs, I want to stop early. I tell myself to "shut up and just do it". It always works for me.

Run Woodstock Hippie Half Marathon 09/10/2011

A lot of runners know that “Who has the runs” has a double meaning. How do you deal with the occasional “problem” that plagues every runner at one time or another?

I visit porta-potties often before every race, about 3-5 times. Once I finish my business, you'll find me in the back of the line again. If the race is a half marathon or longer, I take Pepto-Bismol before the start to help keep those problems away.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about taking up running?

Don't try to do too much too soon. Ease into it.

What is your next big race?

I will be running the Umstead 50 Mile Endurance Race in Raleigh, North Carolina on March 31, 2012. I'm very excited. It will be my first 50 mile race.

What is your immediate running goal?

My goal is to continue training over the winter for my first 50 mile race next March. That includes intervals, hills, tempo and long runs.

What is your ultimate running goal?

My ultimate goal is to move up in distance to run 100 mile races. I will be making a huge step next year by running a couple of 50 mile races. I know I have the endurance to run for long time, I want to see if my body can handle the new challenge.

Do you have a way we can keep track of your progress (Twitter, Facebook, Blog, etc)

Twitter: @deloris40

Dailymile: deloris40

Blog: deloris40.blogspot.com