“I can’t get enough of the runner's high. It’s one of the best feelings.”

Carolle Simon runs 5-6 times per week. After completing the 35 km race in California a few weeks ago, she is inspired to go for the full marathon on June 4th.

Can you introduce yourself to our readers…

I was born and raised in Kenya. After completing law school, I immigrated to the United States in 2004. I decided to go back to school for a second degree in nursing at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. I’ve since worked as a Registered Nurse in a hospital setting, for a non-profit organization in public health, and public diplomacy. I have lived and worked in South Sudan, Vietnam, Senegal, and currently, in DRC. I have three daughters, who are 8, 5, and 2-years-old. I love to run, travel, read, CrossFit, kickboxing, music, and to watch movies.

How often do you run? 

I run 5-6 times per week. I also include 1 hour CrossFit training and kickboxing 5 times a week. My goal is to eventually run about 60-70 miles/112 km every week. I read that when you increase your weekly milage, it helps boost your finish time.

What and where was your last long-distance run? And how did that go for you? 

This was about two weeks ago in Woodside, a town in the San Francisco Peninsula. It was a 35km race up at Huddart Park/Purisima Creek Redwoods. The trails were so beautiful, with moss covered redwoods, many small streams, and gullies along the way. The 35km race was steep, with a 3,000 foot elevation, which was quite challenging. However, I did some research on how to prepare. I ate a healthy breakfast, added electrolytes to my hydration pack, ate gels, and made sure that I sipped water and ate every 45 minutes during the race. I must say that the constant eating and sipping electrolytes gave me so much energy. I was impressed by how well the race was organized. The organizers sent the route beforehand and informed us how many rest stops would be on the way. Being prepared helped me psychologically. The rest stops were well stocked with glucose gel packs, bananas, oranges, boiled potatoes, watermelon, and electrolytes. I must say that this was one of the best races I have ever experienced. 

What do you find to be the most rewarding thing about running? Especially running long distances?

I can’t get enough of the runner's high. It’s one of the best feelings. The best way I can describe it is a sudden rush of energy and a feeling that you can accomplish anything you put your mind to. Whenever I start my day with a run, I’ve noticed that I usually manage to accomplish way more at work or even at home. The same applies to mental health. Whenever I am going through a stressful time, the first thing that comes to mind is getting out for a run. When I get back home, I usually feel much better. I enjoy listening to music while running or looking around my surroundings. I’ve also discovered that running is a fantastic way to explore. When we moved to Kinshasa, running around through the streets helped me get a sense of the vastness of the city. By the time our vehicle arrived, I felt like I already knew my way around. 

Can you share your training process for running a marathon. How do you prepare – both mentally and physically? 

After completing the 35 km race in California two weeks ago, I am inspired to go for the full. I use the Nike Run Club App as my training plan. When you punch in your race date, the app automatically creates a training plan for you. They also have recorded voices of coaches who explain step-by-step what you should be doing. Sometimes they even bring in guests who are famous athletes, such as Eliud Kipchoge Keino. Hearing him tell his story and encourage you to keep going is so inspiring. I would say mentally, I stay away from social media, news, or anything I feel will bring negative vibes. One of the Nike Run coaches emphasizes how important it is to say hi to other runners on the trail, which can be a great way to encourage people along the way. 

On the day of the big race, do you have any personal rituals? 

Yes, I usually don’t read any e-mails or messages on my phone. The night before I go through the running route and memorize where the water/rest stations will be. I also set aside what I plan on wearing on race day, add electrolytes to my hydration pack and put it in the refrigerator, and lastly, set my alarm. In the morning, I take potassium, magnesium, and turmeric supplements after having a healthy breakfast, which is usually tofu/nuts with a big salad, toast, and coffee. I prefer to arrive at the race location an hour or so beforehand just so I’m not rushing. 

What advice would you give to aspiring marathon runners or anyone who would like to start running? 

I would encourage them to start running a 5km race, then advance to 10km, 14km, and lastly 21km. I would also encourage them to join a group of runners in their community. Running in a group not only helps boost your morale but also makes one accountable. It’s also important to include other forms of exercise to your routine such as CrossFit, palates, spinning, swimming, yoga or weight. Lastly, whenever they want to take part in a race, it’s very important to follow a training plan. There are so many apps one can use online or just `

Your most beautiful place to run.

I would say California. So far, I’ve done a total of 5 races in Northern and Southern California. 

The Griffiths Park in LA, Mt Umunhum in San Jose, Bay Breeze race in San Leandro, Woodside Crossover in San Francisco, Western Pacific race in Fremont. I really enjoyed all these races and couldn’t help but notice just how friendly and helpful all the other runners were. They would always either say good job or good work. I also really enjoyed running in nature on the trails.

You best running memory.

When I ran the EDP half marathon in Lisbon, Portugal. There were so many runners, and the race took place in Lisbon. I particularly was drawn to the energy from the huge crowds cheering us on. This really made me want to push further and do better. I also had prepared well through the Nike Run Club app. I felt ready and was happy with my finish time. I flew to Lisbon with my then 1 and a half year old and had a friend of mine take care of her during the race. It was so monumental for me and I remember crying with joy at the finish line. I have a goal to complete a half marathon in 1 hour 30 minutes and a full marathon in 3 hours 30 minutes. I’m sure I’ll be able to achieve this if I put my mind to it and continue training hard.