Carol Benthal-Bingley, 41

Mom, Graphic Designer, Artist

I've been plodding, jogging and running for 6 years.

I started running to lose weight and relieve stress. I'm not a natural athlete. I only joined sports in grade school to socialize, then had to run as punishment. That made me hate sports and running. Lisa Doll used to pull me along on Sunday morning runs and I learned to run through the winter with the right gear. That's when I decided I could legally call myself a runner, when I made it through a whole winter running outside. I then signed up for the Literacy half marathon training and got hooked. Lisa and Steve from from Runners Image were an amazing source of encouragement and support! Dave and the Buddy Group played a huge part in my sticking with my running once the 1/2 was done.

If I could no longer run, I would cry. Then I'd replace it with something else.

My favorite run is Saturday morning at Rock Cut with our coffee crew. My all time favorite run was at Rock Cut during the Hobo training this year. There was an absolute downpour and everyone showed up to run anyway. About 15 of us went out and had a muddy blast. We were like a bunch of 10 year olds running around in the mud, splashing deliberately through all the puddles. We were soaked, mud coated and smiling from ear to ear! The best part was when Jeff Miller sat down in the creek we had to cross, like he was taking a bath.

I used to run with an I-pod, and now couldn't stand doing so. I love running with people, especially my Y group and Saturday morning crew.

When I'm not running I love to be with my family (Dan, Fiona 7, Lily 2 and Ava 8 months). I enjoy going out to dinner with my husband. I love making art, but I don't have much time for it right now. I started my own graphic design business in 98, and run the business out of my home studio. I've been in many fine art shows in years past. Art was my first passion. I've been heavily involved in planning, staffing and speaking at retreats for women and couples. I have a very large extended family (I'm one of 6 children) and enjoy spending time with them.

Something most people don't know about me is...(hmmmm, that's hard because I talk alot) that Dan and I rode our mountain bikes across Michigan...twice! Also, that I had a spinal fusion '99. It took a lot out of me physically and mentally. That, coupled with a few other very difficult “life” experiences really broke me. It took a lot of effort to rebuild. Running was a big part of that.

Running has really changed my life. I'm healthier and happier than ever. Our future is what we decide it will be!

I'm inspired by Jeff “coach” Wilmarth. He has coached our Y noon crew through the last 3 years. He is a steady wise voice, always meets us where we are, and helps us attain our own goals. His main goal always seems to be keeping us safe and staying uninjured while we try to become better runners. Jeff has taught me so much about running, and about patience. He helps me to see the big picture and to focus on my goals rather than chasing someone else's. He does love competition though and can successfully and diplomatically coach, two rivals (Chris:o))at the same time. He has been an amazing support in achieving goals we never thought we were capable of. I trained for my first race with Jeff and Chris Overton, then got completely addicted! Chris inspired me to push myself harder than I ever thought I could, and I love training and racing with her. She and Jeff helped me see the potential I never thought I had. Ann Johnson (Cocoa) is an inspiration to me too. She's got a wonderful attitude and is always so encouraging, and the lady is strong. I've learned so much from them all and appreciate their friendship. I'm also inspired by the entire RRR community, particularly Brian F, Ron L, George T, Ed C, Regina B, Jeff M, the Yargers, Jim D and Marilyn G.

With running I overcame thinking that there are things I can't do. Running has taught me that it's not about natural talent. Tenacity and a strong will can take you a long way in achieving your goals.

I really admire the moms that are getting out there to run despite how tired and busy they are. It's so important to make the time to run.

To push myself on a run, I think about how hard I've been training. Also, that I'd better run faster to work off that peanut butter on toast I ate for breakfast, and if I really get moving I can have more when I'm done. Mmmmmm, peanut butter.

There are a few running accomplishments that really stand out to me. My first Literacy Half Marathon...I was so high on finishing! Right at the finish line someone from the paper interviewed me, and unfortunately I sounded completely illiterate! I was so excited I could barely speak. My first State Street Mile was a huge thrill, once I could breathe again. I am most proud though, of getting back to running and racing after having our 3rd daughter Ava in April of '07. I ran a pathetically slow 5k seven weeks after she was born. I think I was happier than the first place finisher. I was elated to be running again and spending time with friends at the race. I finished the season with no injuries, 2 PR's and had tons of fun. What a great year!

My next goal is to keep running for life and stay healthy and strong. I want to survive the Rock Cut trail series this winter. I'm hoping to achieve better times next year at the State Street Mile and for 5k's. I hope to start a 22:59 5k club…who's in?

My advice to other runners is HAVE FUN. Put yourself out there, be proud of trying and enjoy the ride. If you're happy, sad, tired, energetic, frustrated, sick, angry...go for a run! No matter what my mood is, running always makes me feel better!

I am thrilled and grateful for the RRR of the year award! What a beautiful thing…I get to run with amazing people, be challenged and better myself because of them, write profiles to get to know more great people, then be rewarded for it! I love this club!

I plan to run until until my face stops smiling. In the company of people like you all, that will be forever :o)