Hometown: Blacksburg
How many years have you been with Special Olympics, and with which sports?
Over 20 years, I have served as a Global Messenger and participated in track, downhill skiing, snowboarding, basketball, softball, bowling, and swimming.
How has Special Olympics changed your life?
I might not have been running at all if it weren't for Special Olympics. It was because of Special Olympics track when I was just 10 or 11 years old that I started running. I ran through all of middle school and high school. Because of my Special Olympics involvement, I have kept running and that is a big part of me being able to stay healthy.
What makes you most proud?
Finishing 11 marathons. But I still have a lot of life goals to achieve and then I'll have my "most proud" moments.
How are you Preparing for the USA games?
I have a marathon coming up in November 2021. Training for that will really work on my endurance. After the marathon, I will turn my focus to getting my times down for the shorter races I expect to run at the 2022 games. I run 5-6 days a week and focus on healthy eating and staying hydrated.