This is a guest post by Deb Arsenault.
“Hello, Debra Arsenault here.
I run therefore I am a runner. I may not be as fast as others but I’m fast enough for me. I’ve been a CVRR member since around 2011. I enjoy volunteering at different CVRR events (Comox Valley Half and Jingle Bell Run) and I either participate or volunteer at other local events.
I first started my running life by run/walking around my neighbourhood and each day increasing the running distance that I went. I met my boyfriend who is now my husband (Mark) and he introduced me to trail running through Thursday Night Trails. Mark and I enjoyed searching out different routes for TNT and it was always fun to take runners on trails that were new to them.
Because I am retired my running is mostly done in the mornings now. I’ve lead groups at Taste of Trails but continue to run different areas to check out different routes. My favourite area is the Cumberland trails as there are so many to run and discover. Running the Rapture trails or heading up to Fuji Jim to take in the wonderful view are always favourites.
My proudest moments are the times that I’ve placed on the podium for The Cumby (for Half Cumby and the Full Cumby). I value that wooden medal, lol Not that I was fast but I was able to finish them. I classify these races as ‘events’ as I’m just out to challenge myself and my running. I believe as long as I keep myself moving then I can feel good that I will still be running well over 70 years of age. For me running is about keeping active and fit and getting out and enjoying nature.
Besides running I’m fortunate to go hiking around the local trails, or camping at different places on Vancouver Island. On a hot day it’s always nice to go paddle boarding at Comox Lake or the ocean.
Running has brought (and continues to bring me) wonderful friendships. I am lucky to have many encouraging running friends that we also socialize beyond running. We cheer each other at race events and we help each other train. I am blessed to be involved in a wonderful community of like minded and encouraging people.
I hope to see some of you out on the trails and see some fresh new faces too.”
