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Member Highlight- Erica Mertens

June 29, 2020 by Meggie Inouye 2 Comments

Erica and I met during a Newbies Run last spring. As the pack of runners settled into a rhythm, we found we had a similar pace and also realized we had similar goals. Erica had run the Tahoe 100K the previous September and qualified for Castle Peak 100K in August. I had just signed up for the Tahoe 100K, a big step up for me from the handful of 50Ks I had done…so I started picking her brain for tips on the course and any advice on running longer distances. I found Erica to be laid-back with a great sense of humor, which have proved to help her be especially resilient dealing with a series of injuries over the past year.

Unfortunately, Erica got injured before CP 100K in 2019 so couldn’t run…but that did not stop her from volunteering at the Crow’s Nest aid station in the DARK, taking care of runners in some of their most exhausted moments, and sharing her infectious positivity. In her daily life, Erica serves the Town of Truckee as the program director for recycling and organizes events like Truckee Day…bringing the community together in service and, in non-COVID years, for an awesome block party! I am super thankful to have her as a running buddy and part of our greater community.

Selfie over East Shore Lake Tahoe. Photo courtesy of Erica Mertens
  • Where are you from? What brought you to Truckee?

I grew up in the Bay Area, then lived in Sacramento for many years. I followed my husband here after he got a job in the basin, and was lucky enough to find a job in the area too. Like most Bay Area transplants, I guess you could say we were drawn by the winters, but stayed for the summers.

  • When did you begin running? Why?

I always viewed running as a punishment as training for other sports. I grew up playing soccer and eventually played lacrosse in college, when morning track runs were truly used as punishment! Eventually I started running occasional half marathons as a means to stay in shape, but didn’t really consider myself a runner until I moved to Truckee and discovered trail running. I love that every run on trail feels like an adventure.

  • Do you race? Does racing motivate you? If not racing, what motivates you?

I would loosely say that I race. 🙂 Racing helps motivate me to stick to training and actually stay in shape. I also love the challenge of setting a goal that may feel like a bit of a stretch (or even a lot of a stretch), then accomplishing the end goal. This year, like most people, all the races I registered for are cancelled. Luckily for me, I am still rebounding from a niggling ski injury, so right now I’m just trying to enjoy some awesome mountain adventures and soak in the sunshine.

  • Do you have any dream races (either hoping to qualify for or get selected for)?

I still have my eyes on Castle Peak 100K, which I was gearing up for last summer before a different knee injury got me. (I’m sorry, left knee!)

Crow’s Nest aid station in twilight. Photo courtesy of Erica Mertens
  • Do you have a favorite on-trail food or nutrition strategy and favorite post-run meal or beverage?

Fav snacks: Peanut butter-filled pretzels, choco chips & rice balls with anything-seasoning!

  • What was your favorite running experience this past year? 

 One of my favorite runs last year was with you, Meggie! It was sometime early summer when you, Chris, Jack Macy & I did Castle to Basin Peak. It was just one of those quintessential runs in the sierra with mules ears popping and wildflowers blooming. Gorgeous. 

Basin Peak summit looking back at Castle Peak. Photo courtesy of Chris Mertens
  • What was your most challenging/ character-building experience this past year?

Quarantine? Just kidding. I’d say the most difficult thing was my first knee injury last summer. Leading up to CP100K, I got talked into signing up for Speedgoat with a friend as a “training run.” See above reference of “stretch” goals. I ended up taking a fluke fall only a couple miles into the race & scored 13 stitches on a gashed knee. Initially I was gutted that I was unable to do the race I had most been looking forward to (Castle Peak!), but I managed to rehab and get back to running by the fall. I think most people can relate with injuries, that at the time, coming back from injury to running can seem insurmountable. (This is slightly how I feel now, after not running for the last four months.) It can be easy to compare where you’re at currently with where you were at before…running slower than before, or not running at all. Talking about this now is a good reminder to myself of what resilient creatures we are. Those first two weeks of feel-like-sh*t-runs are the worst, then it gets better after that. (If anyone is looking to run very slowly & very short right now, holler!)

  • What are your upcoming racing/adventure plans?

I’m hoping to hike or run every segment of the TRT this year. 🙂 Optimistic…

  • What do you do for a living? Is it hard to fit in time for training?

I work for the Town of Truckee and manage the recycling programs. I’m fortunate to be pretty flexible with my schedule. I’m hoping to rebound from this knee quickly so I can properly take advantage of some midday WFH runs before we’re back in the office full time!

  • What led you to join the DPMR? 

I was looking for some running partners and a friend told me about one of the group runs. At that time I didn’t consider myself a runner, but was in awe/inspired/delighted to have met so many badass runners.

  • What has been your favorite DPMR experience so far?

My first DPMR pub run, the year it was Alibi to Alibi. I was fresh off of running my first (and only) road marathon, and thought why not check out the casual 50k pub run?! Shout out to Kelly Barber who ended up leisurely pacing me and a coworker on the back half of that run. We would have been lost on Sawtooth without you. That pub run was a blast & my first taste at ultras, which inspired me to really run a 50k later that fall.

  • Favorite local trail?

Probably the TRT from Rose Knob to Brockway summit for the endless lake views. Favorite workday trails are trusty Waddle loops.

  • Do you have a mental training technique, mantra, or similar that you rely on to combat the mentally trying times of a longer run? 

My favorite mantra while running is: you are exactly where you need to be right now. I have returned to this mantra so many times both in running and in life. During times that are feeling particularly tough, I often just count in my head to as high a number as possible. I’m told this is a form of mediation, but it seems to help me focus on something other than how my body is feeling. (This also helps in those drawn-out moments in the skin track.)

  • Recovery technique(s) that you swear by? 

Rolling & dips in the river/lake!

  • Do you have a favorite piece of running gear (sports bra, shoe, layer, sock, etc.)? 

These Patagucci shorts have become my favorite for the zillions of side pockets and back zipper pocket. For my lady runners, these Senita sports bras are my fave. Support ya girls without breaking the bank.

  • What other outdoor or indoor interests do you have?

Skiing! And like everyone and their mother right now…I’m trying to get my first mountain bike!

  • Any interesting facts about yourself you would like to share?

The scar from my Speedgoat fall makes a smiley face when I look at it. Basically I have a Bob Ross “happy little accident” on my knee. 🙂

“Lizarding” on Mount Lola. Photo courtesy of Chris Mertens

 

Filed Under: Homepage Feature, Member Highlights

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Jenelle Potvin says

    June 30, 2020 at 10:59 am

    What a fun interview! I hope you recover from that injury soon and get to fulfill your TRT goals this year. 🙂

    Reply
  2. JJ Liston says

    July 1, 2020 at 11:06 am

    Great to know more about you Erica. Hope we can run or ski the Tahoe backcountry one day!

    Reply

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2023 Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon

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Join us for for Thursday evening speedwork for runner’s of all levels in Coldstream Canyon, Truckee. Run starts at 6pm.  Workout will be about an hour and can be adjusted to your level. Keep an[...]
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6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Oct 10 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
Oct
12
Thu
5:30 pm Evening Speed-work with Martin @ Coldstream Canyon Truckee
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ Coldstream Canyon Truckee
Oct 12 @ 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ Coldstream Canyon Truckee
Join us for for Thursday evening speedwork for runner’s of all levels in Coldstream Canyon, Truckee. Run starts at 6pm.  Workout will be about an hour and can be adjusted to your level. Keep an[...]
Oct
17
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Oct 17 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
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⏰ : Saturday September 16th, 8am
🏃‍♀️ 🏃‍♂️ : Judah Loop and continue on the PCT.
Run the Judah loop for ~6 miles, continue to Anderson peak for ~13miles (or further on the PCT if you want to go longer)
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Who's psyched for the Pt Mariah Trail Marathon TOM Who's psyched for the Pt Mariah Trail Marathon TOMORROW?!! DPMR is so excited to bring you this second edition of the race that promises to be bigger and better than last year! RD Chris Cloyd and team have been working so hard all week with final prep. The course is in great shape with some beautiful fun flowy singletrack. He said he'd love a few more volunteers so checkout the signup genius on our volunteer page, but otherwise wants everyone to please come hang out, cheer, and join the party! 
Unique to this race is the 5 segment course that utilizes a central aid station and can be done as a 2 person or 5 person relay, in addition to challenging yourself to run the whole thing solo!
Registration is still OPEN in person until 6pm tonight with bib pick-up at @tahoemountainsports with reg remaining open online til 1159pm. Race day bib pickup available in the morning 6-730am. No Race Day Reg. 

Thanks to our amazing sponsors this year, every participant will be eligible for a prize giveaway and get a pair of @darntoughvermont socks and @drinklmnt hydration.

#unafraid #trailrunning #runningcommunity #runninglife #runningmotivation #donnerpartymountainrunners #tahoe #tahoerunners #mountainrunners #DPMR #TruckeeTahoeTrailRunning #WeRunTrails #ultrarunning #trailmarathon #trailrace #pointmariah #pointmariahtrailmarathon
Hey DPMRers!  We’ve got something special in th Hey DPMRers!  We’ve got something special in the works.  We’ve been collaborating with Alibi Ale Works to release a co-branded beer (YES!).   Join us for a social run next Tuesday, where we'll have the pleasure of running alongside Alibi's head brewer, Matt Garcia! We'll hit the trails together, and afterward, we'll gather at Alibi to brainstorm the perfect brew that represents our club.  And since the DPMR Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon is just around the corner, we're adding some extra fun to the mix. We'll also be assembling course markings during the event. It's going to be an unforgettable night! Hope to see you there!
🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Calling All Running Ent 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Calling All Running Enthusiasts! Join Us in Supporting the DPMR Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️
The Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon is just around the corner, and we need YOUR help to make it a roaring success! 🌟 This incredible event brings together the running community and showcases the determination and passion of athletes from all walks of life. Now, we are seeking volunteers to be an essential part of this memorable experience!
📅 Event Date: August 5th
⏰ Volunteer Dates: Several different shifts available from August 2nd - August 6th
🤝 We firmly believe that it takes a village to organize events like these, and YOU can be a crucial part of this vibrant community effort! No prior experience is required—just bring your enthusiastic spirit, and we'll guide you every step of the way.
📍 Positions Available:
1️⃣ Course Marking: Help ensure that the runners stay on track and have a smooth route to follow.
2️⃣ Finish Line Support: Cheer on our amazing athletes as they cross the finish line and celebrate their achievements.
3️⃣ Course Marshals: Guide and assist participants at key points along the trail, offering encouragement and direction.
4️⃣ Timing Assistance: Play a vital role in accurately recording race times and ensuring accurate results.
... and more! There are plenty of opportunities to contribute to the success of the marathon.
🌟 Not only will you have a fantastic time being part of this incredible event, but you'll also have the chance to bond with fellow running enthusiasts, make new friends, and create lasting memories.
💪 Together, let's show the world the power of community and support in making this marathon an unforgettable experience for everyone involved!
And remember, volunteering for a full shift earns you Volunt(HERO) credit towards the drawing for a YEAR OF FREE RACING (up to $1000) from DPMR!
Sign up here for a volunteer shift today! Link in bio.
Thanks to everyone who came out and volunteered at Thanks to everyone who came out and volunteered at the Diamond Peak aid station this weekend at the Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs.  Everyone out on the course really appreciated all of the support!!! Stay tuned, we will be posting the Volunt(hero) leaderboard soon!  In the meantime, we're seeking more incredible volunteers to join our team at the upcoming Pt. Mariah trail marathon, and we promise it'll be an experience you won't forget! 😄
Sign up today! No experience needed. Link in bio.
The heat is on! Our Volunt(hero) program is going The heat is on! Our Volunt(hero) program is going strong with more than 60 volunteers out helping runners get through our various aid stations this year. What is the Volunt(hero) program? The top 10 DPMR volunteers with the most hours logged in 2023 will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win free race entries for a year, up to $1000. We will be posting our leaderboard soon but only a few hours separate those at the top.  Adding a shift can catapult you in to one of the coveted top 10 spots to be included in the raffle.  So come and join us THIS WEEKEND out at TRT! There are still openings overnight, morning clean up Sunday, and sweeps for TRT (Double points for morning clean up).
All volunteers that work at least one 6 hour shift will be entered in to our lottery for a race entry in to the 2024 TRTER race. You get one entry for each 6 hour shift you work. Overnight shifts get a bonus with two entries! Winners of the lottery can choose the distance but 100 milers still must have a qualifying race.
And remember, volunteering for a full shift earns you Volunt(HERO) credit towards the drawing for a YEAR OF FREE RACING (up to $1000) from DPMR! 🔥🔥🔥
Sign up here for a volunteer shift today! 🙏🏻 Link in bio for more info!
Meet DPMR Board President, Diane Frederic! Diane h Meet DPMR Board President, Diane Frederic! Diane has been a DPMR member since the inaugural year (2014).  She has been a board member for 5 years with the last 3 at the helm. Diane loves a good joke and believes life is a whole lot better if you don’t take things too seriously.  She also believes that trail time is best shared with dogs and friends. And friends with dogs.  Diane is a recovering graphic designer but will come out of retirement for a good race logo opportunity (thank the cosmic forces for that!). Diane will be out on the course for the TRT100 next weekend - so if you see her out there, give her a big hello and high-five! Good luck Diane! #unafraid #dpmr #girlboss #100miler #paincave #yougotthis
Hey friends! DPMR is on the hunt for a trail-runni Hey friends! DPMR is on the hunt for a trail-running-obsessed artist extraordinaire to transform our boring old 3D foam sign for Pt. Mariah into a mind-blowing piece of art. Picture this: foam sculpture meets artistic genius equals immortalizing Pt. Mariah in your artistry.  The project consists of 30” letters, which are 4” thick, and spell Pt. Mariah.  The letters can be picked up in Truckee after Jul 3rd and need to be complete by August 3rd. This is a commissioned project with a budget of $500. 

Are you ready to unleash your creative beast? Then don't hesitate! Slide into our DMs faster than a trail runner chasing a PR. Don't miss out on this opportunity to create something truly legendary.
The Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs are almost here The Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs are almost here!!  Please consider volunteering with us.  We have many shifts available from Friday, July 14th through Sunday, July 16th! 
All volunteers that work at least one 6 hour shift will be entered in to our lottery for a race entry in to the 2024 TRTER race. You get one entry for each 6 hour shift you work. Overnight shifts get a bonus with two entries! Winners of the lottery can choose the distance but 100 milers still must have a qualifying race.
And remember, volunteering for a full shift earns you Volunt(HERO) credit towards the drawing for a YEAR OF FREE RACING (up to $1000) from DPMR! 🔥🔥🔥

Sign up here for a volunteer shift today! 🙏🏻
Link in bio for more information. 

P.S. If you are racing, let us know so we can cheer you on!!
What are you waiting for? Register today to take p What are you waiting for? Register today to take part in a unique, fun, multi-loop style course with five segments that tour different parts of the Royal Gorge land. Race solo, with a partner, or as a 5-person team!  There is something for everyone! Register today! Link in bio.
Congratulations to Courtney Dauwalter on absolutel Congratulations to Courtney Dauwalter on absolutely shattering the women’s course record at Western States 100 today! Such an inspiration to all. We know you are the GOAT but tell us the truth Courtney… is your secret weapon the DPMR pancakes?!?
Huge congrats to Tom Evans for his win at Western Huge congrats to Tom Evans for his win at Western States 100 just now. Incredible performance landing him the 4th fastest time in the history of the event!  Well done Tom!
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