Meet Mary Squillace…
When I started running in the 7th grade, I looked to the cross country team as the only option for a girl too spindly, clumsy and uncoordinated for any other sports offered at school.
Then, to my surprise, what started out as begrudgingly putting one foot in front of the other faster and faster, became a favorite pastime. And then, a passion.
Since finishing my mediocre high school running career in 2002, I’ve sporadically turned to races and fun runs and jogged to keep in shape. Last May I ran Philadelphia’s 10 miler, the Broad Street Run, which gave me just enough momentum and inspiration to train for the 2008 Columbus Marathon.
Now, a bit more worn, but a bit more wise than my 12-year-old self, I’ve decided to take my training beyond merely putting in the miles and make an effort to learn the science behind the sport that’s been with me for so long.
I’m currently a graduate student at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism. I’m always eager for feedback and input, so feel free to contact me at mary.squillace@gmail.com or follow me on Twitter at @thepacekeeper.