Monumental Runner – Erika Fields

Erika Fields with her cousin

Name: Erika Fields

Self-described age group: 40-45

Residence: NE D.C.

Occupation: Operations Manager for Circa Lighting

Why you run: Fresh air and exercise cures most woes.

When did you get started running:  I remember joining my dad for Turkey Trot 5K when was around 10 years old.

Have you taken a break from running: I take breaks all the time.  I’m currently trying to get back into a running routine after a break.

Training shoe: Running in Brooks Ghosts right now.  I don’t have loyalty to a specific brand or style.  Every time I need a new shoe, I get a fresh assessment at a local running store and try something new.

Coach or training group: I’m not part of a running group but would like to be!

The hardest race you’ve ever run: High Country Half Marathon in Boone, NC (Aug 2018)

Most adventurous decision you’ve made with your running: solo trail running in Shenandoah.  The ankle hazards abound.

Running mentors: My dad

My favorite place to run in the D.C. area is:  Anacostia Riverwalk Trail when running from home, C & O Canal Towpath when running from work

Favorite local trail:  same as above

My best race was: One year the Army Ten-Miler was on my birthday.  Running it was a great way to celebrate with 20,000 new friends!

Favorite local race: Cap Hill Classic

Ideal post-run meal: eggs and IPA

Favorite flavor of gel, gu, etc: I don’t touch the stuff!

Pet peeve: bottlenecks on narrow race courses

Goals:  Break two hours in half marathon

Your advice for a new runner:  Don’t overthink it.  Just start.

Favorite running book:  I don’t read many running books, but I love several books about hiking.  Recent fave is Grandma Gatewood’s Walk: The Inspiring Story of the Woman Who Saved the Appalachian Trail.

Song in your head during a run: Bombs over Baghdad (Outkast)

Have you dealt with a major injury: just minor injuries – shin splints, broken toes, minor sprains, etc.

Running quote: “If you are in a bad mood go for a walk. If you are still in a bad mood go for another walk.” – Hippocrates

Why is the D.C. area a great place to be a runner:  Want to run on a track or a trail? Hard top or bare earth? Hills or flat? Cityscape or among the trees? Alone or with a group?  Whatever your running preferences, DC’s got options for you.

I’m currently being inspired by #runstreak on Instagram.  It’s a great reminder for me to hit the trail even when I just have time to run 1 or 2 miles.  Every little bit counts.

Recent Stories

Race pacing for fun and fitness

A break from racing one of my favorite events gave me a chance to help other runners reach their time goals.

Eight local runners will compete in the Olympic Marathon Trials Saturday morning in Orlando.

Running Shorts

St. Albans alumnus wins club cross country championship.

Running Shorts

Locals contribute to NCAA titles, another Trials qualifier, Prince William County moves toward an indoor track and comments are sought for the Capital Crescent Trail.

Run the Greenway

We are just days away from the 4th annual Run The Greenway Race and
spots are filling up fast! We don’t want any Jedi to be left behind at this year’s
5K, 10K, or 800-meter Kids Fun Run, or virtual

Race to the Rescue 5k

Join PetConnect Rescue at 9:00am on Sunday May 19th for their second annual Race to the Rescue, 5k and children’s fun run.

Taking place at the beautiful Franklin Park in Purcellville VA, this is an event perfect for all. Run/jog/walk

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