Running has been a part of Katie’s life since middle school where she started running to give her an edge in team sports. In college, she played NCAA Division 1 field hockey, and only post college did Katie take up running competitively. A friend suggested she sign up for a race in Central Park and she has been hooked ever since, finding that the sport provided both a competative outlet and a way to build community. 

The last six years have been the best of her running career. She has built confidence in herself as an athlete and has found a community through joining the Impala Racing Team, an all women racing team here in San Francisco. “You do it with other people and it doesn’t feel as hard.” 

Katie tells me that “running, and sports in general, is such a great way to meet people when you move.” San Francisco has a huge running community and Katie loves the diversity of the women she has been able to meet. 

For those of you who are considering starting to run, in Katie’s opinion running is a great sport to try when you feel like you want to move your body, improve your health, or build community. She suggests starting with something small and setting achievable goals – it is ok to feel sore, don’t feel discouraged! She also suggests finding different destinations (say your favorite coffee shop or bakery) to end your runs at, creating something to look forward to after your workout. We wrapped up our conversation on a light note. When I asked her what she would call her favorite place in the Triangle, she had a great answer – “It’s cheesy to say but Duboce Park! But specifically, the hill overlooking the park which is really serene and I enjoy watching the