This week's runner is Stephanie Paddock who currently works for The Michael J. Fox Foundation, helping individuals fundraise as a part of the grassroots fundraising program Team Fox. Stephanie has called Brooklyn her home for over 10 years now. She enjoys traveling to new places and has a definite sense of adventure, climbing Kilimanjaro in 2012. She loves that Brooklyn is her home and taking part in quirky local events like the Idiotarod and the Royal Palms shuffleboard league. We love Stephanie for inspiring us to run for a cause!
Stephanie wither her dad, her number one inspiration for running.When did you start running?
I’ve always been active dating back to middle and high school sports – basketball, soccer, tennis, track – and then gave rowing a chance in college. Once I realized that being on the crew team meant having no life, I quickly made the switch to rugby which was more my speed (more social, more beer). I used running as a way to stay fit both during and out of seasons, but never really considered myself “a runner” until my first half marathon in 2008. It was the Fred Lebow Half – 2 loops of Central Park on a FREEZING January morning. It was my first and almost my last – I definitely hadn’t trained as well as I should have!
Are you running for fun or sport? Current running goals?
Mainly, I run for Team Fox as a way to fundraise for Parkinson’s disease research. My dad was diagnosed with Parkinson’s over 13 years ago, so I started fundraising even before landing my job at the Foundation. My first triathlon in 2010 was for Team Fox and I’ve racked up quite a few races since then – most notably my first marathon, the 2011 NYC Marathon. While I’m more of a “my goal is to finish” kind of girl, my competitive nature has me wanting to improve with every race. Current goals include a sub 2-hour half marathon and to complete my first 70.3 triathlon.
What is your favorite running route? Why?
My number one favorite is a Brooklyn Bridge run early in the morning so I get to the bridge around sunrise. It’s really the only time I can handle being there (I hate crowds) and it’s so fulfilling to know that my run is going to be done before most of NY is awake. Ultimately though, I love choosing new routes and running when I travel as well. It’s a great way to see new places!
Favorite post-run meal?
Beer. And a bacon, cheddar, avocado burger – no bun!
Best piece of running advice?
A good friend once said “You should be well trained or well rested – at least you are well rested!”
Who inspires you to run?
My dad is my number one inspiration, followed closely by all of my Team Fox friends. This past year, we had 7 runners with Parkinson’s run in the ING NYC Marathon. If they can get out there week after week and train to run 26.2 miles, why can’t I?
Favorite way to sweat other than run?
Crossfit, almost to a fault. I train at Crossfit South Brooklyn which is an incredible gym and many days would much rather go there than put in the mileage!