In 2022, we will are featuring the stories of everyday runners & asking why they started and how they stay motivated? And what advice they would offer to someone just starting out? We are very pleased to feature Haley Webb-Bunde. Haley is at many of our races with her very tall husband and her positive nature is infectious! Thank you, Haley, with sharing your journey with us!
Why did you start running?
At first, running was just something I knew I should do to be healthy. I didn’t particularly enjoy it. But as soon as I started running outside and not on a treadmill, I found a sense of peace and happiness being out in nature. The slimmer physique was a great bonus and incentive to keep going!
How did you get started?
I started running on a treadmill at the gym two or three times a week. Then I decided to try one of the Hometown Happenings events and I placed first in my age group on my first try! I was floored. That really encouraged me to keep going and push myself harder.
What is your favorite Hometown Happenings event?
It’s hard to choose! I liked the Beast Boot Camp 5K last year but I also prefer to be warm, so I like the summertime runs.
What goal do you still want to accomplish with your running?
My current goal is to run the Hub City Half in September this year. I’ve never run that far but I’m excited to try.
What is your best advice to a new runner or someone just getting started?
Make running or walking part of your routine. I promise, if you stick with it you will improve and you will see results. Everyone is on their own fitness journey, don’t measure your success by the people around you, measure it by your triumphs and meeting the goals you set for yourself.