Introduction by Steve Woo:
“It was nearly 10yrs ago when I started dropping in to do SF Tri Club track workouts at Kesar. Coach Tom McGlynn had me running in his fastest group, and within it was this unassuming woman who ran just as fast, and sometimes faster, but more effortlessly than me. We had both qualified for Boston that year and formed a bond. Not just because we ran in the same track group and both BQ’ed but because she also loved beer too! I could always count on Julie to join me for a post run beer!
And so fast forward 5 years later and we both found ourselves living in Truckee full-time. Wanting to connect with more runners, it was Julie that was my partner in crime in pursuing membership with DPMR together.
I’m happy to say she’s still that friend who will join me for a post run beer. And you see her on occasion at the weekly social run when she can bust out of work in time!
Julie is the ever so humble type – she doesn’t talk about herself and the great things she does. I always have to find out myself or pry it out of her! Ask her about her bike packing trips and her published writing! Pleasant and wonderful, I always enjoy her company. Despite however busy we are, Julie is also the type of person who will make an effort to celebrate life’s achievements and milestones with you. So happy to have a Julie as a friend and as a fellow member and friend of DPMR!”
Where are you from and where do you live now?
I’m originally from Massachusetts but lived in San Francisco for 13 years before moving to Truckee in 2018.
When did you begin running and/or long-distance running, if that applies? Why?
I started running on my high school’s track team because my friends were on the team. I also ran cross country and track in college. After college, I started running marathons. Eventually, I ended up with some overuse injuries and started biking and swimming to cross-train. From there I got into triathlons. Doing multiple sports with lots of gear really makes you appreciate the simplicity of running. I ran my first 50K after doing triathlons for several years, and it felt so refreshing to show up at the start with only my running gear. Running is also a great way to explore. Whenever I visit a new place, I always try to get out for a run. Running also allows me to clear my head.
Do you race? Does racing motivate you? If not racing, what motivates you?
I’ve taken a hiatus from racing over the past few years. Mainly due to the Covid pandemic followed by a lack of motivation. I’m hoping to get back into racing this year, but am still working out my race schedule.
Do you have a favorite on-trail food or nutrition strategy and favorite post-run meal or beverage?
I’m still working on my nutrition strategy. I tend to prefer savory things while running, but so far I’m really liking boiled salted potatoes, peanut butter-filled pretzels, and tortilla chips.
Do you have a favorite recipe to share?
No favorite recipe. However salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, and chili power on any roasted anything is a great combination.
What do you do for a living? Is it hard to fit in time for training?
I work as a physical therapist at Tahoe Forest Hospital. On work days, I typically train in the morning.
What led you to join DPMR?
I’ve been a part of various running and triathlon groups in the past, and really enjoyed meeting people with similar interests. When I moved to Truckee, I started looking for some type of running or cycling group. I’m not sure how I found out about DPMR. A friend from San Francisco moved to Truckee at about the same time I did. I may have found out about DPMR through him.
What has been your favorite DPMR experience so far?
I haven’t been very active with DPMR over the past few years, but am hoping to be more active this year. I’ve done a few of the Alibi social runs, and a few of the end-of-the-year pub runs. Those have been fun, as I always tend to meet new people.
Favorite local trail?
The PCT from Palisades to Sugar bowl is amazing, but it takes time and some coordination to shuttle back and forth. Running from my house in Tahoe Donner, up Glacier Point Way to Drifter hut along the Donner Lake Rim Trail, and down Andromeda to some of the other TD trails is a favorite that can be done on any day.
Do you have a mental training technique, mantra, or similar that you rely on to combat the mentally trying times of a longer run?
“Just make it to the next mile/ aide station/ etc.” I’ve done a few Ironman triathlons and found this mentality very helpful because thinking about the race or workout as a whole is overwhelming.
Recovery technique(s) that you swear by?
Massage gun, foam roller, lacrosse ball, or any type of massage device.
Do you have a favorite piece of running gear ?
I guess I have sensitive skin and have always had issues with sports bras chafing me. Seamless bras tend to work best. My favorite is the Champion brand seamless sports bra (they’re only $20).
What other outdoor or indoor interests do you have?
I also enjoy cycling in the summer. I mostly ride a road or gravel bike but have started to get more into mountain biking. During Covid, my husband and I discovered bike packing. It’s basically a camping trip where you haul all of your stuff on a bike. Riding a bike is also a great way to explore. In the winter I enjoy XC and downhill skiing.
Great profile!