September
2019
Sarah Dobler
Q: Tell me a little bit about yourself.
A :I’m originally from the Utica area and lived in SW Missouri for a few years as a teenager, but I’ve lived in Binghamton since 2001 and it’s home now.
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Q: How long have you been running and how did you get started?
A: I started a little over 6 years ago after a very long hiatus since high school. I started pretty gradually for health reasons and never planned to become a “runner”, but it escalated to my first 5K after about 4 months. Thanks to our wonderful running community, it’s become a lifestyle that provides stress-relief, entertainment and friendship!
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Q: Would you rather run with a group or alone? Trails or road?
A: Both [groups and alone] have their place, for sure. For longer runs, I prefer to be by myself in my own head and concerned only with my own pace. Trails! The scenery is the best, but they are also so much more engaging—you have to constantly be paying attention, looking ahead to see what’s coming, and making quick decisions/actions to avoid tripping. I never get bored!
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Q: What are your running goals for the future?
A: I’m going to start training this winter for my second ultra marathon; Many on the Genny in June!
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Q: What's the most rewarding thing about running and how do you stay motivated when you don’t want to run?
A: Continuing to create new goals and the satisfaction when my hard work and training pays off. [Motivation] is where group runs are awesome! Having other people to run with helps get me out the door when I don’t really want to—especially in the colder months.
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Q: What is your favorite running memory?
A; All of the friendships I’ve made!
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Q: Who inspires you most?
A: The people who get out there and get it done despite obstacles, crazy schedules, inner demons, and adversities. No matter how long it takes them, they are my heroes for never giving up.
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Q: What advice do you have for new runners?
A: Draw inspiration from others, but try not to compare yourself with anyone. Don’t worry about how fast or “good” you are. Everyone had to start where you are now. Also, everyone has bad days—get back out there and it’ll be better next time!
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Running Strong for over
50 years (1971-2021)
