Name: Jillian Murray
# of Years Running: 12
Favorite Race Distance: Marathon
Last race: Marine Corps half marathon in Fredericksburg, 2019
Current Shoes: Brooks Adrenaline
Trails, Roads, or Track: Roads (or treadmill!)
Group runs or solo: 100 percent SOLO!! Sorry to my husband, but that is the truth! Need headphones on at full blast.
Longest run: 24 hour relay in Prince William Forest Park, ran with Jack and Karen Hyland, and did 7 loops at 6 miles each = 42 miles.
Why I run: To stay healthy, to zone out, to push my body to uncomfortable limits, to feel like I have accomplished something.
Favorite thing about running? Spending hours listening to music and getting into a vibe when everything is clicking.
Best race experience: Moab, Utah - half marathon in 2010(?) with my friend Keli. Beautiful landscape and scenery, plus perfect weather made the two hours go by quickly. Great post-beer and company afterwards as well.
Advice for new runners: Don’t compare yourself to anyone. Don’t get caught up in gimmicks. Just find a good shoe, a comfortable outfit and run when, where and with whoever you want! Solo, with a group, trail, treadmill, in the morning, evening….whatever. We are all out there to stay healthy and to encourage one another.
Fun Fact: I used to work at a shellfish company as a lab tech in my hometown in Maine. I have shucked literally thousands of oysters and clams, preparing them to get tested and ensure their safety for restaurants. I am a pro shucker!