April Runner of the Month: Jenna Colon
Jenna joined NBR in the summer of 2010. “I was home for a summer from college and had started running while on campus in Northern NY in Potsdam at a very tiny rural school in an even tinier village in the Adirondacks.” She wanted to continue the routine over her break and Google searched for running groups in Brooklyn, finding her way to NBR. Although Jenna goes back and forth between wanting to go on group runs or solo runs, you can find her as one of our run leaders at the Wednesday Night Beginner Run!
What do you do when you're not running?
I enjoy knitting, cross stitching, sewing, drawing, playing D&D, video games, reading, and hanging out with 25 awesome Kindergartners everyday. I'm a Kindergarten special education teacher so when I'm not running around the neighborhood, I'm usually busy chasing after 5-6 year olds.
How did you initially get into running?
I have lived for 34 years right at the halfway point of the New York City Marathon. The Pulaski Bridge is a quick walk from my apartment. I'm a born and raised Greenpointer and remember going out to see the marathoners and always watched the marathon on TV as a young girl. I remember thinking, "I wish I could do that" and so it became a dream of mine from a young age. In college around 2009 I struggled with depression and at the suggestion of my therapist, started seeking out physical exercise more frequently. I always hated the gym scene and found no joy in that environment so I decided to start taking outdoor walks. On my walks I was often passed by runners and so little by little in an effort to join them I started adding fast walking and then a few minutes sprinkled here and there of running. During the summer of 2010, I came to my 1st beginner run and remember struggling to even run for a quarter mile. I remember feeling tears in my eyes and thinking this wasn't for me. I kept showing up and celebrated running my 1st mile without stopping. It continued on from there. I told myself that night I'd finish a marathon before I was 30. I did it at 30. Dreams do come true. :)
What is your favorite race distance?
I really enjoy half marathons. The training plan fits my life without completely taking it over and it is enough distance for me to feel proud of my accomplishment.
Best running memory?
Finishing my 1st New York City Marathon in 2018. I remember feeling like I was in some kind of dream. I was no longer the young girl watching it on TV or by the Pulaski Bridge with my Mom cheering on runners -- I was actually in it. It was surreal and it was HARD. When I turned at Columbus Circle and saw the finish line and lights up ahead I had such a mix of emotions; Relief that my body was going to be able to stop soon and the pain was about to be over, but also a feeling of dread because my heart felt so full and happy that I wanted to hold that moment forever.
Favorite running route in NYC?
Anywhere along the waterfront or Prospect Park. I love water and I love trees. I also like routes less traveled or frequented -- it allows me to zone out, be alone, and find some peace.
Any running-related superstitions?
Nothing new on race day.. not even a scrunchie!
What has running taught you or changed about you?
It has taught me that my body can do amazing things and that I am stronger and much more capable than I ever thought I was. It has also taught me that all bodies are running bodies no matter the size. I may not "look" like a runner, but I am. That said, it is still hard at times to feel confident, acknowledged, accepted, and seen in this space/sport.
Favorite post-race food?
Baconeggandcheesesaltandpepper on a bagel ;).
Favorite song to run to make you want to run?
No music or headphones here when running.
Favorite running social media account?
Kara Goucher, Des Linden, and Molly Huddle have always inspired me via social media. I also love love love CheerEverywhere!
What do you think is the worst part about being a runner?
Oh my gosh -- The laundry!!
Best advice to running newbies?
Just have fun and keep going. It's hard but try to not compare yourself and your accomplishments to others. In the end it's you vs yourself. No matter what.
Current running goal?
To stay injury free and positive. :)
