26; Zookeeper II at Memphis Zoo; Volunteer at House of Mews
FAVE FITNESS ACCOMPLISHMENT: Completing my first full marathon! I’ve done a couple of half marathons and always wanted to do a full one, but I was always afraid of the time commitment. When I started dating my boyfriend, running was something fun we could do together, and it made the training much easier! We both ran our first marathon in the 2021 St. Jude marathon, and we did it together.
I LOVE RUNNING: I love how versatile running is! You can do it pretty much anytime, anywhere, alone or with a community!
GO-TO GEAR: Ultimate Direction Hydration Vest
RECENT RACE: Most recently I’ve run in the Turkey Trot at Shelby Farms, the St. Jude marathon, and the Hill and Dale 8 miler.
FAVORITE JAMS: Don’t Stop Me Now by Queen
UP NEXT: I’m signed up to run in the Winter Off-Road Series and the Run the 901 Series.
PET PEEVE: When people have their music or podcasts playing on speakerphone during a race.
INSPIRATION: My job is pretty active and I spend hours walking and on my feet. Staying fit ensures that I’ll be able to work and do what I love for years to come.
BEST EATS: Huey’s in Memphis! We had our first date there and probably eat there at least once a month. My favorite thing to order is the Bluff City Burger, and we always split an order of cheese tots.
ON MY NIGHTSTAND: The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
DREAM DINNER COMPANY: Probably Steve Irwin. I used to watch the Crocodile Hunter with my family when I was younger. He was so passionate about animals and teaching people to respect them.
BUCKET LIST: Now that I’ve run a full marathon, I want to maintain my endurance and start going to CrossFit classes. My ultimate goal is to complete a Spartan Trifecta.
Photo by Sam Sikes
