June Runner of the Month: Shari Kirkpatrick

Congrats to Shari Kirkpatrick as she is the Ultimate Fit June Runner of the Month!  

Shari is married and has 2 children and 4 grandchildren. She started running as a support to a friend.  She also started getting involved in volunteering for the Y and discovered that her gift was not running, but it was in leading, coaching, and inspiring. Shari has groups of people in Evansville who she supports all year long.  For us, there is no off season.  

What motivates you to run/walk?
Life and friendships
 
How many races have you participated in?
40 Half marathons, 2 full marathons, 2 Half Ironman events and too many 5 and 10k’s to count.
 
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively?
I didn’t start consistently running until I turned 40
 
Favorite place to run/walk? 
Anywhere outside, but I do enjoy the challenge of the west side hills and I also enjoy the Boulevards on the east side.
 
Favorite local race?
There are many.  For short distance, I would say the Turkey Day 5k.  It is the most casual and family oriented event.  The Evansville Half Marathon – I have been part of that race since the first one, so I am partial to that.  The Evansville River Run from Henderson to Evansville is also a fun community race!
 
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State? 
The Flying Pig in Cincinnati – The whole community supports the race.  It is tough but fun!
 
Farthest you have traveled to do a race?
San Diego California
 
Favorite race distance?
Half Marathon
 
Favorite race memory?
So many….Crossing my first full marathon with two of my best friends hand and hand.
 
Funniest race memory?
I laugh at every race I go to. I find the fans to be very funny.  St. Louis had a fan that was that cow bell guy off of Saturday night live.  My running partner had to get a picture with him!
 
Craziest thing you saw at or during a race? 
Anyone that runs in full costume in a race…they all qualify.
 
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink?
Pre race is Oatmeal or Bagel post-race favorite is chocolate milk
 
What is your favorite brand of running shoe? 
Brooks!
 
How many miles do you run/walk a week?
Varies depending on what race we are training for.
 
What are your future goals for running/walking?
As my running career come to an end, I will remain as a coach, mentor, and running mom to all that will have me.
 
Favorite time of day to run?
Morning – 6 am
 
Favorite weather to run in?
Cold
 
Music or no music?
Talking all Talking