Where are you from? What brought you to Missoula?
I was born in Riverton , WY and lived there until I was 13. My family moved to Billings in 1982. In 1991 Eivind and I were married and lived in Helena; Soda Springs, Idaho; and Roseburg, Oregon. In 1996 we had the opportunity to move back to Montana, and have been in Missoula ever since.
When did you start running and why?
I started running at age 37 during the winter of 2006 when my friend and I joined a gym. We would meet early in the morning and run outside before work. Not long after that, I heard about a marathon in Missoula and I thought it sounded interesting. In March 2007, I joined the first Missoula Marathon training class.
You are the Volunteer Coordinator for the Missoula Marathon. How long have you been the VC and how did you get started?
In 2012, my friend Tammy and I coordinated the Missoula Marathon relay race; the last year of the relay. In 2013, I began coordinating the Missoula Marathon volunteers. This is my sixth year as the VC.
What are you looking forward to most for this year’s marathon?
This year, as every year, I look forward to seeing friends, family, and volunteers throughout marathon weekend. In the months leading up to the marathon, I communicate a lot with volunteers via email; and, on race weekend the energy is infectious and it is fun to share the excitement.
Are you currently training for anything?
I am training for my 12th Missoula Marathon.
Do you have a pre-race meal, and/or ritual?
The night before I usually eat chicken fettuccini alfredo and French bread. The morning of I eat a plain bagel with peanut butter.
How about a post-race indulgence?
During the last few miles of the Missoula Marathon I start thinking about the the frozen fruit bars that the Good Food Store provides at the finish! Also, Eivind always has a cold Diet Dr Pepper ready for me.
Finish this sentence: When I’m not running, I’m…
Spending quiet evenings at home with Eivind during the week, and enjoying time spent with family and friends on the weekends.
Huge thank you to Danelle for all of her hard work and dedication as the Volunteer Coordinator for the Missoula Marathon!