Find Running Inspiration in Others
I had an opportunity to catch up with Sergeant First Class Heather Boyd and ask a few questions. Boyd is an inspiration, and I had the privilege to work alongside her at the Army Ten-Miler. There is a degree of “grit,” and if you’ve read a few of my other columns, then you know what I’m referring to.
Boyd has faced obstacles and managed to persevere. There are a number of roles that play a prominent part of her life.
Who would want to jump out of an airplane before it lands? After all, there are steps you can walk down. But it happens to be the same person who tackles the JFK 50-Mile Run with a portion along the Appalachian Trail.
Boyd shares her thoughts, and maybe, in a small way, there is some inspiration for you. Boyd is still on her journey.
Enjoy the read.
When did you first take up an interest in the sport of running and what was the motivation?
I started running in high school to stay fit. I set a goal to run the Marine Corps Marathon before I graduated High School, and I completed the Marine Corps Marathon for the first time in 1999 (4:58:20).
Was it easy starting out as you began to run more miles, or did you jump right in?
It was easy for me to start running, I was young and motivated and loved the runners high—I would finish a run and look forward to the next one right away!
What distance makes you feel most comfortable?
As a busy mom of two kids, I’m grateful for any distance I can get! I have had great runs anywhere from a 5K to 50 miles.
What were some of the obstacles you faced, and how did you overcome them?
I would say [my biggest obstacle is] trying to get longer distances in with two small children at home; I try to cope with this by taking them with me in the double jogger. They love it, and I get an upper body work out in too. As I get older, it takes me much longer to recover. I try to recover during movie time with my son.
How has running affected your life?
I would say for the better, not only for the obvious physical benefits, but emotionally, it helps me clear my mind. I also have made lifelong friends through my community of running buddies.
What was the attraction to ultra-running?
I think the community and the environment—it is a very welcoming crowd. I am not a fast runner but with ultra-running, you don’t have to be! I also love that most ultra-marathons are on trails. I love connecting with nature. Being in the woods and mountains is so refreshing after a long week of sitting behind a computer.
Did you have any doubts in your ability?
In ultra-running, there is a mantra of “forward perpetual movement,” which I try to keep in mind when I am feeling down about my speed or ability to get miles in.
What is your objective when you race?
Just to be present. Sometimes showing up is the hardest part. I love sharing my experiences with others, so if I have an opportunity to chat with someone along the way who is new to running, then I will take advantage of that.
Do you feel that running is emotional?
Absolutely! With 25 years of running, I have run the gamut of emotions… In the last few miles of an ultra-marathon you really learn how to dig deep to get in touch with the emotions you need to push to the finish line. In a relatively safe environment, ultra-running stretches you physically, emotionally, and spiritually and allows you to see how resilient you really are.
What was it that attracted you to the military?
I grew up an Air Force brat, so I always felt a draw to service. I wanted to join the Army Reserve when I found out about being a paratrooper. I have been hooked ever since!
How long have you been in the service?
I have been in the Army Reserve for 19 years; I am looking forward to retiring next year.
What changes have you had to make in your life as a result?
Oh, man. [The terror attacks of] 9/11 happened while I was at basic training, and like most Americans, the trajectory of my life took a turn. In 10 years I spent the better part of three years in either Iraq or Afghanistan. No doubt, [they were] life changing experiences, and I would not trade them for anything. I even ran a marathon in Afghanistan in 2002! As a reservist, I have given up many weeks of birthday parties, family events, trips, etc. that occurred on drill weekends.
How do you balance your life with all the priorities you have (mom and spouse)?
Honestly, I am not sure. My husband and I try to be open and communicate about issues before they get too big, which allows us to focus on the things that really matter. We also focus on healthy eating and exercise for us and our children. We all feel better when we can get regular exercise!
What accomplishment makes you smile the most?
My family. My kids are turning out to be amazing little humans, and I love hanging out with them. They always make me smile.
Have there been any injuries along your journey?
Nothing major. I had a non-running related ankle injury which required surgery. Other than that, nothing that some rest or ice could not fix.
How do you spring back after a disappointing race or workout?
I try to not let it get in my head. So much of this is mental for me. I just have to put it out of my head, learn a lesson from it, and be future-focused.
How do you define who Heather is?
I do not think that there is one thing that defines me, and I like to continuously evolve and make myself better at either running, being a mom or wife, or advancing my education.
Do you run to be competitive or to be comfortable with where you are?
I like to compete with myself. I would go nuts if I was always comparing myself to others.
What words do you want to pass along to the novice lacing up their first pair of shoes?
Just put yourself out there. Don’t be your own worst enemy. Thinking of signing up for your first 5k? Do it! Want to join the local running group? I promise you, they will welcome and run with you at your pace.
