Coming at us this week from Austin, Texas, is Ashli McKee. She’s an outdoor enthusiast, admirer of wildlife, and marathoner who’s completed over 25 distance races around the country!
“I’m a vegan runner training for my first ultras. Also a personal trainer, happy wifey and bonus mom, adventurer, idealist, slowpoke. 🙂” Ashli
What got you interested in running?
I signed up for my first 5k many years ago, fell in love with the sport, and kept increasing my distance from there. I adore the sense of accomplishment it brings to my life.
Is there anything that sets you apart from other runners?
Meat-free for 19 years, I’ve been vegan the entire time I’ve distance trained.
What keeps you motivated?
Racing regularly and always shooting for that next distance milestone. Also exploring new trails and working towards completing my quest to run in every park in Austin
Do you have a favorite race length?
Marathon
If you could run with anyone (living/dead), who would it be?
I prefer to run solo – my training time is my quiet, stress relief “me time”. Having a dead person running alongside me would probably really cramp that vibe. 😉
What is your all-time favorite race? Why?
I love the 3M Half Marathon in Austin. It’s a fun course and a festive race – and mostly downhill!
Do you have a favorite pre-race food?
Good old bagel with PB.
Post-race food?
What piece of running gear could you not possibly live without?
I’m a slave to my Garmin.
What do you tell yourself when you are struggling?
Almost there – just keep moving forward.
Do you have any current goals? Races?
I’ll be running the Route 66 Marathon and the Dallas Marathon in the coming months, then the Lt JC Stone 50k and Back on My Feet in24 Austin early next year.
What advice would you give to someone who’s new to running?
I don’t think it ever gets “easier”, but it definitely gets more enjoyable with more experience under your belt. Incorporate weight training too – it’s been key for me for injury prevention and better performance.
Where can we find you online?
Visit Ashli McKee on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to connect with her today!
Would you like to become our “Runner of the Week?” It’s really simple; just contact ForksToFeet and we will feature you on one of our Friday posts!
