Jennifer Hall, Silver Spring, MD, 39, Franchise Operations Manager for a dry cleaning franchising company
What inspired you to start doing races?
An amazing friend, Disney fanatic and then co-worker Donna Quackenbush challenged me to run the 2014 Princess 5k. Crossing that first finish line and completing a goal distance was all it took to get me hooked!
Do you walk, run or run/walk, swim, cycle, do obstacles?
I complete races doing run/walk intervals. I’m getting stronger and faster with each race and I’m really excited about that.
What distances do you do?
I have done everything from 5k to a full marathon. I just completed my very first marathon; the 2016 Walt Disney World Marathon. I hope to be selected to run the 2016 Marine Corps Marathon this year as well.
How many have you done?
I’ve completed about 35 races in the last two years all over the Mid Atlantic region.
What do you feel is your greatest race accomplishment? 
Not only finishing the WDW Marathon, but having so many people tell me how strong I looked, even going into the last stretch.
Favorite race and why?
So many to choose from. But I had the most fun at 2015 Princess 10k. It was my first race as a member of the Mickey Milers running team and I got to run with some amazing friends.
Do you travel for races?
Yes, whenever possible.
Does your race schedule become expensive? How do you afford to make it happen?
There are a lot of options and a lot of cost effective races that even reward finishers with medals. Volunteering for races often has its rewards as well.
Must-have gear on race day:
CEP calf compression sleeves.
Weirdest place you’ve ever chafed:
My neck. Rule number one (which I broke), nothing new on race day.
Do you prefer to run in warm weather or cold weather?
I prefer to run in colder weather
Favorite pre-race meal/snack:
Chocolate PowerBar.
Weirdest/funniest thing you’ve ever experienced at a race:
Going from mile four to mile five in the blink of an eye and not knowing that .45 miles of the course was cut off due to police activity.
Worst experience during a race:
Trying to run a hilly 8k with knee pain. I finished but there was alot of walking.
Most awesome moment you’ve ever had at a race:
Finishing the 2016 WDW Marathon (Although I didn’t get as emotional as I thought I would. Maybe that’s a sign of confidence)
Your favorite part of participating in races:
Experiencing the course. I like to choose races where the course has something unique and different as far as a view.
Do you wear costumes? If so, what’s been your favorite
I don’t normally do costumes because I’m not that creative, but I love to see what others put together. I finished a race with Donna, where we dressed up as the elves from Prep and Landing.
How important are awesome medals to you?
Medals are representation of the race, the experience and show that you completed the 
distance. Its a badge of honor that I proudly display.
Best medal you’ve earned so far:
2015 Hot Chocolate Philadelphia 15k medal. Its a giant chocolate bar, no brainer.
Do you prefer to run alone or with a buddy?
I’m good with either. Its more important to run with friends unless I’m after a goal.
Favorite song on your playlist:
I actually prefer not to run with music, but if I do, it needs to be something aggressive in the form of hard rock/metal.
Who is your race hero and why?
Eddie McCoy, host of The Marathon Show, has been a great friend and mentor to my running. He knows exactly what to say to get me motivated to push my running to the next level.
What is the top race on your bucket list?
For right now it would be the Marine Corps Marathon or the Big Sur Marathon.
What has been the best physical side effect of your participation in races?
My endurance has really changed. Running used to be painful and scary until I learned how to build up my endurance.
Your advice for others who might be intimidated by signing up for a race:
I love The Marathon Show’s motto – Its not about the finish time, its about the finish line. If I can do it, you can too. But you need to commit to whatever is going to get you to the finish line. I promise that you won’t be disappointed.
Anything else you’d like to add?
As a member of the Mickey Milers and Team Shenanigans running teams, I’m surrounded by amazing friends that never cease to amaze me with their support of hitting goals and milestones. Having the support of teammates as a resource for questions and advice has been a big part of my success finishing every race I have entered.
I enjoyed reading, encouraged and inspired by your story. I agree that Eddie McCoy is very motivating person.