Runner Spotlight: A Sweet Surprise on the Trails
This month, we’re excited to share the story of a runner whose positivity, perseverance, and sense of adventure made her a standout at The Florida Run @ Lake Louisa State Park. She signed up for the race without realizing it was a trail run — and her experience turned into something unexpectedly memorable.
Getting to Know Her
When we asked how she got started with running, she told us:
“I started running 5ks to prepare for my training that was upcoming in March 2025.”
And as for why she chose The Florida Run?
“I googled 5ks near me and chose the Florida Run because it fit into my schedule.”
“Realizing that it was a trail run genuinely surprised me. I didn’t know how I was going to do because I was used to running on pavement. It was a nice surprise and different! I was shocked to see horses haha”
A Trail Run Surprise
One of our favorite parts of her story is her reaction to realizing she had accidentally signed up for a trail race:
“Realizing that it was a trail run genuinely surprised me. I didn’t know how I was going to do because I was used to running on pavement. It was a nice surprise and different! I was shocked to see horses haha.”
And like many first-time trail runners, the beauty of Lake Louisa left an impression:
“The scenery stood out to me. It was beautiful!”
Crossing the Finish Line
Her reflection on the finish line moment says it all:
“I felt accomplished crossing the finish line. I was proud of myself!”
She also learned something pretty incredible about her own running ability:
“I learned that I can keep a consistent pace and that’s new for me!”
“I learned that I can run faster on flat terrain since I ran 37 minutes on uneven terrain and in grass and sand. I also learned that I can place even at the pace I was running. I WAS SHOCKED.”
What’s Next for Her Running Journey
This first trail experience didn’t slow her down—it fueled her:
“This experience definitely inspired me to continue running. I signed up for a 5k on Thanksgiving! I am also interested in doing the Florida Run again next year!”
“I learned that I can run faster on flat terrain since I ran 37 minutes on uneven terrain and in grass and sand. I also learned that I can place even at the pace I was running. I WAS SHOCKED”
Her Mindset & Motivation
Before every race, she keeps one simple ritual close to heart:
“I ask God to get me through the race. :) He is the reason I am able to run and the only reason why I placed.”
And her advice for anyone just starting out?
“I would advise people to make the choice to run. Don’t get in your head about it because you’ll talk yourself out of it. You’ll thank yourself in the long run :)”
