February Runner of the Month: Caitlin Papageorge
Caitlin joined NBR in late 2018, but didn’t start running with the group regularly until Spring of 2019 while training for the Big Sur Marathon. “I had just gotten out of a pretty long term relationship and thought it would be a great way to make some new friends. I had also run 5 marathons training solo and thought "this might be even more fun with a team!" Spoiler alert ... it definitely is.” You can find Caitlin leading Doves bright and early on Wednesday morning, or at Monday Morning Easy Run or Thursday Night Track!
What do you do when you're not running?
Talk about running. KIDDING! I work for J.Crew in a job I really enjoy, and am lucky to have a great network of friends in the neighborhood (including a core group of NBR friends) to stir up some regular trouble with. I also love shooting hoops (not dribbling though) and waterskiing. A few of us also had ambitions to start a soccer team called the "Turkettes" last year. We couldn't quite get the team off the ground but maybe this year - message me directly with your desired position :)
How did you initially get into running?
J.Crew sponsored us to run the J.P. Morgan Chase 5K. I had never actually "raced" but I had such a blast chasing people down and did surprisingly well. Up until that point, running in my life had always been the required 3 miles for soccer practice. From there I signed up for basically every race on the NYRR calendar, including dropping my name in the NYC Marathon lottery and miraculously getting in.
What is your favorite race distance?
It's no secret I'm pretty hooked on the marathon. I think I'm just a glutton for punishment. But truly I think a half is where it's at ... long enough to be a mental challenge but short enough to really push the pace without needing so much training and recovery.
Best running memory?
I have three top - this past year's NYC Marathon will be hard to beat and I think will always hold a special place in my heart. But a close second is the 2019 Chicago Marathon. It was the first time I raced in an NBR singlet and it felt so cool to have that team spirit behind me. That was also the first time my older brother saw me race and it was awesome to have him there. And third ... doing the Crownimal. If you don't know what I'm talking about - look it up! It's the worst. But so great. Certifying people's Doves legs brings me so much joy so bring it team ... please go through that horrific experience so I can have that happiness.
Favorite running route in NYC?
Yikes that's tough. If I'm with a group ... anything involving summer streets. If I'm solo ... I'm always drawn to Prospect Park. I love being able to just zone out in there, people watch, dog watch, not worry about stoplights and just get lost in my thoughts.
Any running-related superstitions?
Superstitions not so much. But I do do a bunch of weirdo things when I'm nervous before a race - like pee 4,000 times and retie my shoes more times than anyone ever should. Admittedly my Garmin's commentary on my current fitness can also send me into a tailspin like this past year. But I think her hold on me is over now.
What has running taught you or changed about you?
Running is therapy for me. It makes me feel better if I'm down, and if I'm happy, well then I feel even better. It's taught me a ton of discipline, how to really push myself, but also how to listen to my body and be kind to myself when I need to be. When I've gone through tougher things it's helped to remind me that I'm a strong, determined person.
Favorite post-race food?
Chocolate Milk. Always chocolate milk. Also - a smoothie from Weekends is my ultimate post long-run craving. (Clearly not a fan of chewing anything post race).
Favorite song to run to make you want to run?
I can't believe I'm going to admit this in writing but Eye of the Tiger. Growing up my Dad and I watched Rocky SO MUCH - I find it nearly impossible to not get all fired up when I hear that song. Philly this past year was a particular treat because of that.
Favorite running social media account?
I really love Shalane Flanagan's account - I find her so inspiring. I'm also obsessed with her cookbooks. I can't recommend them enough!
What do you think is the worst part about being a runner?
Getting up early on the weekends in the Summer for that fall marathon training. I do love the weekend long run, but it can be really hard to reign yourself in on a Friday night when you just want one ... more ... drink.
Best advice to running newbies?
Running with a team is so awesome and supportive but remember it's an individual sport. It's really important to set realistic goals for yourself and listen to your body during training. If you're not feeling something for the day, just stop. No one's judging you. The run, and the team will be there waiting for you the next day. And do a few training runs solo - it will help you learn to pace yourself without relying on others and how to lift yourself up when you need to.
Current running goal?
I've got a stacked Spring ahead with some shorter races, the NYC Half, Prague Marathon in May and then Grandma's Marathon in June which will be my goal race. Admittedly I have dreams of a big PR at Grandma's. Keep your fingers crossed for me! It's time to put in some serious work.
Any other fun running facts about you?
Philadelphia this past fall was 12 marathons for me. It's kind of hard to believe! Also, my mile PR is in the middle of the Al Gordon 4 miler from a few years ago and I'll be damned if I don't best that at some point this year. Like seriously ... how can I not manage to run one singular mile faster than in that race?! That distance is my nemesis.
