Member spotlight

Tripti meysman

When did you start running and why?

I started running in fall of 2012. I ran the Torchlight 5K, my first race. For 5K I did not need any training; it was doable. In 2013, my right shoulder started to cause me some discomfort, partly due to my profession, Dentistry. I had to rethink as to what other form of exercise would be good for me. I played competitive badminton in the Midwest for years. We traveled as a team. It was time to think differently, yet be active.

One fine day I decided to run, and I ran two lakes, six miles without stopping. I surprised myself. Felt good, too. In 2013, I met a dear friend of mine from high school, who was not very active in sports. She was into running marathons; we met in Chicago. I found out that she was into long distance running. My friend lives in California. She recommended I join a local running club. When I returned from Chicago, I googled and “ALARC” came up. I joined ALARC. Trained with them. A year later I heard about MDRA. I quickly decided to join MDRA. I belong to both running groups today.

Why do you run or what keeps you motivated?

I love sports; back in high school, I ran 400, 800 and 1500 meters. I also did cross country; nothing more than 5K.

I love running but never knew I could run 26.2 miles.

What do you consider to be your favorite distance/race?

My favorite distance is 26.2. NO more NO less.

What is your best memory from a race?

I just ran Grandma’s in June of 2017. Well! Always trying new things, somehow my shoes did not cooperate. I thought I had run enough miles to wear those shoes but the course was up and down. Running inclines and cutting tangent took a toll on my toes. At mile 17, I was in pain, I had blisters on both feet. At mile 20, I had to remove my shoes and I ran 6.2 miles without shoes. I was running a good race up until mile 17. I finished my marathon in 4 hours 18 minutes. My coaches were there at mile 26 cheering me on. This memory will stay with me for years to come. MDRA prepares you for mental toughness as well.

What does a typical week of training look like for you?

A typical week I run 35 to 40 miles. I run with MDRA on Saturdays and Tuesdays.

What is your shoe of choice?

I honestly do not have any favorite shoe brand yet. I am still figuring things out. I do change shoes as I run outdoors all year round.

What are your interests outside of running?

My interests outside running are dancing, dentistry and travel.

What are your favorite pre- and post-race meals?

I do not have favorite meals but I love carbs. I am still learning about meals. Every marathon is different.

What’s your bucket list/running goal for 2017-18?

To run four marathons. I ran Oklahoma and Grandma’s. I will be running Erie, Pennsylvania, and then Twin Cities Marathon. I will

Tripti meysman poses with her medal following grandma’s marathon this year. Contributed photo

meet my goal. I run TCM every year because my son runs with me. It is a mother-son event, a tradition which got started in year 2014.

Why are you a member of the MDRA?

The reason is simple. I needed to run better and learn from experts who have a wealth of knowledge and experience. This is my second year with MDRA training. I register for every spring and fall training class and I am constantly learning things and implementing changes. I am running better without injuries. My goal is to be able to run the Boston Marathon. Because of my MDRA training, I ran TCM last year with my time of 4:00:02. I missed my Boston time by two seconds. I am very optimistic about qualifying for Boston soon. The coaches are incredible. To name a few: Rochelle, Kelly, Sara, Gloria, Dave, Sarah. They all are very consistent in their approach. They are friendly, non-intimidating and last, but not least, FUN.

MDRA to me is one big happy family. I recommend people of all ages to join MDRA. So, a BIG THANK YOU TO MDRA! It sure makes running fun and enjoyable. I love it.