April Runner of the Month: Robin Black
When and why did you start running? I’ve always loved to run. Some of my earliest memories are racing cars down the street to the next mailbox. I started running consistently when I first moved to Texas 9.5 years ago. I needed something to help with anxiety and depression that comes with moving to unfamiliar places.
First race? My big brother signed me up for a 5K in San Francisco to run with him, while I was there visiting. The finish line crossed the home plate in the Giants Stadium, summer 1992.
Most recent race? Caveman Triathlon on April 8, 2018
Favorite piece of gear? It’s a tie between my ridiculous sippy cup (see photo) and my flip belt.
What shoes do you run in? I have a few pairs I rotate: Road running – Saucony Zealot Iso 2, and Newton Kismet. Trail running – Merrell All Out Crush Lite, and Saucony Nomad TR.
Favorite way to cross train? Swim and Bike
Best running memory? I trained hard all winter for a big half marathon goal. My A race was Cowtown in 2015, the year of the ice storm, where they cancelled the full marathon. 4am on race morning, I jumped in my car and drove around my neighborhood to decide whether or not I should drive to Fort Worth. I chose not to make that dangerous drive. At 4:20 am I signed up for another half marathon the following week, Rhythm & Blues Half Marathon. It was in the upper 30’s and drizzling most of the race. I ran my heart out and ended up accomplishing my sub 2 hour goal with a 1:58:59. I felt so much pride that day, because it took a few attempts to reach that goal.
Bucket list race? Great Wall of China Marathon
Favorite race so far? Pikes Peak Ascent 2017. Crossing that finish line hand-in-hand with my Sole Sistas was amazing.
Do you have a favorite distance? The half distance. It’s long enough to be fun and challenging, but not grueling like 26.2.
What is something that most people do not know about you? I own a horse named Pretty Girl that warms my heart every time I find time to spend with her.
Favorite tune to rock out to while running? I usually don’t listen to music unless it’s a long run, or a day when I really don’t feel like running. My favorite running song is Evanescence, Bring Me To Life.
Best part about running? Talking about anything and everything with your best running buddy. It’s the best therapy ever!
Who inspires you? Josie Rini is an amazing triathlete who’s drive is incredible to watch in action. Michelle Ekrut who digs down deep and always gets it done. The one who inspires me most is Judith Spriggs. She keeps climbing that ladder, challenging herself with huge goals that scare her to death. She basically lives by my favorite quote: “feel the fear, but do it anyway.”
What has been your biggest challenge so far? I do not tolerate the smoldering Texas heat well at all. Training for Pikes Peak in the humid Texas heat was extremely difficult, but very rewarding at the same time. It made me realize that I can do anything I set my mind to.
Any words of advice? Set big goals for yourself, work hard, and crush them. You will grow confidence in yourself, and most likely amaze yourself in the process.