Marathon Training Team Coach Q&A: Judy Wood
Over the next few months, we’ll be sharing a Q&A series that features each Sports Backers Marathon Training Team coach in an effort to share more about the Marathon Training Team and the work the coaches put into helping participants reach their goals for race day on November 16. As we get closer to race day, you’ll have the chance to learn about the great things going on within the Marathon Training Team.
Featured Coach: Judy Wood
What is your favorite thing about MTT?
“The people.”
How many years have you been with MTT, either as a participant and/or coach? Which team do you coach?
“I think about 13 years. I have been coaching for 10 years with Pink and now Margarita.”
Do you have a favorite memory from your time with MTT?
“Watching their faces when they see the mile 25 sign and know they are going to finish a marathon.”
Judy Wood
What would you say is the biggest benefit that the program provides?
“The training and support both physically and mentally.”
What is the biggest piece of advice you would give to someone looking to start training for a marathon?
“Don’t do it until you can give it 100 percent.”
Describe a typical weekend group run.
“Excitement, nerves, laughter, some crying (depending on the mileage) and coffee with others when we finish.”
What inspired or encouraged you to become a MTT coach?
“I had great coaches with MTT during my training years and I just wanted to give back.”
Do you have a favorite place to run in Richmond?
“Downtown, especially on Broad Street early morning, and down by the river.”
How many marathons have you done, and do you have a favorite memory or experience? What was your reason to run your first marathon?
“Over 30 marathons and about 10 ultras. My favorite memory was my daughter meeting me at mile 19 to run the last part of the race with me. She was always there during all of my Richmond marathons. That year she was away at college and told me she couldn’t come home that weekend. She surprised me at the CVS at Boulevard and Broad and ran with me. I was trying to qualify for Boston that year and that was the push I needed to get to the finish line.”
What do you like the most about the VCU Health Richmond Marathon?
“The first day of training team and race day, just seeing how far everyone has come and being there for them.”
The VCU Health Richmond Marathon takes place on November 16, 2019, and registration is available at www.richmondmarathon.org.