Jacqueline Feldscher

Name: Jacqueline Feldscher

Self-described age group: 30-34

Residence: Southwest D.C.

Occupation: Reporter

Why you run: I started running to fulfill my competitive streak (I love racing!) and continue running because it’s a great way to explore my city and stay in shape.

When did you get started running: I started running in 2013, after getting dragged to a 5k by my mother and finishing in the bottom third. I knew I could get a better time if I actually trained, and I’ve been at it ever since.

Have you taken a break from running: I’ve been sidelined by some minor injuries that have forced me to take a month or two off, but never more than that.

Training shoe: Brooks Glycerin

Coach or training group: I used to run with the Pacers Pentagon Row and 14th Street groups, but have discovered that I prefer to run solo.

The hardest race you’ve ever run: Marine Corps Marathon in 2017. It was my first (and so far only) marathon. I shed many sad and happy tears over the 26.2 miles. It took a few years to be ready to tackle the distance again, but I’m currently training for the Outer Banks Marathon in November.

Most adventurous decision you’ve made with your running: Running a Ragnar Trail Relay, having never really done trail running before.

Running mentors: I definitely admire my husband as a runner. He wasn’t running when we met three years ago, and now he can zoom past me! He also keeps me honest on days I would rather just lay on the couch.

My favorite place to run in the D.C. area is: The National Mall

Favorite local trail: Rock Creek Park 

My best race was: The Disney Princess Half Marathon! It’s such a fun race to do, getting cheered on by princesses and running through the castle in the Magic Kingdom, and is where I ran my half marathon PR of 1:58:44!

Favorite local race: George Washington Parkway Classic. The weather is usually nice and the run along the parkway is so beautiful, plus the Port City beer tent waiting at the finish.

Ideal post-run meal: All of the pasta.

Favorite flavor of gel, gu, etc: I use Endurance Tap! It’s just maple syrup, salt and ginger and is so easy on my stomach.

Pet peeve: Tourists who take up entire sidewalks when I’m trying to run.

Goals: The last time I trained for a marathon, I was at the physical therapist all the time and just consistently burned out from my training schedule. I’d love to finish this marathon cycle injury free and happy.

Your advice for a new runner: Cross train! Running is such a repetitive motion that can leave some muscle groups weak and lead to injury. I love going to OrangeTheory Fitness, where I get to add rowing and lifting weights into my workouts.  

Favorite running book: My Year of Running Dangerously by Tom Foreman

Song in your head during a run: High Hopes by Panic at the Disco

Have you dealt with a major injury: Thankfully nothing major.

Running quote: “When your legs get tired, run with your heart.”

Why is the D.C. area a great place to be a runner: The weather may not be ideal 75 percent of the year, but the views can never be beat.