Hi, my name is Katie, I live in Belmont, and I am the runner of the month!

What’s your day job?

I’m an employment attorney, working at a law firm in San Mateo to protect the rights of workers in discrimination, harassment, retaliation and wrongful termination cases.

How long have you been running?

Around 30 years. In middle school, my dad got me started "jogging" (as it was termed in the 80s) then I officially caught the running bug in high school in Michigan. I joined the cross country and track teams and had an awesome coach who encouraged all runners on the team, from last place to state finalists. Over 100 girls participated each year -- the team sparked a lifelong passion for fitness in me and many others.

What are your current running goals?

My current goal is to get the P.R. of my forties at the California International Marathon in Sacramento on December 8th – but I'll count it as a good marathon if I can keep a consistent pace and avoid hitting the wall. After a crazy high-mileage training plan this fall, I’m excited in the new year to turn back to more social running, cycling, and maybe a triathlon.

What is your favorite Bay Area race?

I'm a bit biased, but it's hard to beat the Belmont Water Dog race! It’s fun to do a community run in the town where I live and see many friendly faces along the course – plus who doesn’t love climbing endless steep Water Dog hills?

What are some things that you like to do when you’re not running?

When not running, I enjoy spending time with my husband Matt and our two little boys Hawkins and Wyatt (all fellow runners). I also like reading, live music, hiking and camping, skiing, and cycling.

Where’s your favorite place to run?

The Bay Trail is my usual training-ground with beautiful sunrises. When I can start my run after sun-up, however, I choose Sawyer Camp Trail – the breathtaking scenery never gets old with its sweeping vistas, mirror-like reservoir, and forested path.

Do you have a special warm-up or power song when running?

My headphones are always on, so I can't pick just one! I’m partial to rock alternative and electronica with great beats for running cadence – during my latest training cycle, two favorites were “Matadora” by Sofi Tukker and “heavydirtysoul” by 21 Pilots.

Do you have any advice for someone who is just starting out with running?

Expect a little pain at first, but take heart and stick it out. Give yourself 2-3 weeks of consistent training (running at least twice a week) before you decide how you feel about the sport. You're testing out new muscles and will have initial soreness. After a few weeks, the pain lessens and the endorphins and positive feedback loop sink in (i.e. addiction!) To avoid injury, get fitted at a local running store with proper shoes for your feet (and switch them out once they accumulate more than 300 miles). Also, avoid increasing your mileage by more than 10% per week.