Kate Inch
RUNVAN® AMBASSADORMEET OUR AMBASSADORS
Kate Inch
Meet Kate, a PHE and Youth Outdoor Education teacher in Vancouver. Chasing siblings and adventuring through the forest as a kid is how Kate’s love of running started and it continues to offer new connections. As an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find her on the trails running, biking, or skiing. Enjoying a healthy active lifestyle is something Kate works to promote with her students and the Vancouver Youth Run Club is one such way they are getting involved. Participating in the RUNVAN® series has been a great way to encourage young people to engage with running and other healthy lifestyle initiatives!
Interview
Take us back to your first BMO Vancouver Marathon. What was it like? How long ago was it? What do you think has changed since then?
Being relatively new to Vancouver the first time I participated with my students in the BMO Vancouver Marathon 8KM School Challenge, I was mesmerized by the scenery and the energy along the course. I had run in a number of other races over the years, including triathlons and marathons, but for my students, this was a first experience EVER of participating in such a community event. The awe on their faces at the starting line, and their sense of achievement and empowerment at the finish line was palpable. It was fantastic!
In terms of a changing running scene, I think we’re seeing a huge increase in the number of recreational runners who are lacing up their shoes and getting out there; it’s awesome!
Name a few of your favourite points along our course. Why do they stand out for you?
Nothing beats coming along the east seawall of Stanley Park, as you can see the mountains on the North Shore, the buzz of the downtown core and you’re being amped up by the live music on course. It’s a pretty energizing final stretch, no matter how beat the legs are feeling!
Running is a great way to see the world. Of all the places you’ve traveled to, which was your favourite spot to run in and why?
I’ve always thought running is the best way to see somewhere new, and I’ve enjoyed some great runs in a number of beautiful places. As much as I love coastal and beach running, I’d have to say one of my favourite running memories is participating in the Kilimanjaro Half Marathon in Tanzania. It was spectacular scenery, having Mt.Kili in view nearly the entire way. Not to mention they served barbeque and beer as part of the community picnic at the finish line.
What is your pre-race routine?
Take advantage of some carbohydrate loading and try to get a good night sleep. In the morning, I wake up with plenty of time to enjoy a light breakfast and a good warm-up/stretch. I get my favourite tunes going to get energized, and then I just try to enjoy the ride.
Pay it forward: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received about running?
Enjoy it for you! Find a training program and time that works for your schedule. Make it fun, make it social, and running can be such a powerful force of positive energy in your life.