Michelle Smurl

1.  Why do you race?

I race for a variety of reasons.  I enjoy working towards a goal, especially one that encourages me to live a healthy lifestyle and stay fit.  I love competition and the “race atmosphere”.  I enjoy the sense of accomplishment after completing a race and the familiar and unfamiliar faces along the way offering words of encouragement or congratulations.  Exploring new territories is appealing; some of the race locations take you off the beaten path.  In the past I’ve had the tendency to work insane hours.  Training and racing for me has led to a more balanced lifestyle.

2.  What kinds of races have you done throughout your life and now?

On a whim in January of 2005 I signed up for a 5K after running consistently for a few weeks.  I immediately got the bug and signed up for a Buttar 5K event later that month at the Orlando Wetlands Park.  Since then I have completed numerous 5Ks, 10Ks, 15K’s triathlons and duathlons.  I recently added two half marathons to my list and now contemplating a marathon.

3.  Have you learned any life lessons while racing?

I’ve learned to not be intimidated by the unknown and that negative thinking is so limiting.  I believe that fitting physical activities and healthy living into a routine helps cope with daily stress.  The real lesson I have learned is that I am extremely fortunate to be able to live an active lifestyle.  I have been truly motivated by folks like Rick and Dick Hoyt who against the odds complete Ironman distance races, marathons and find the time to inspire people along the way. 

4.  From an active lifestyle view, what do you see in your future?

I will continue training and competing in a variety of multisport events and road races.  With luck I have many more PR’s waiting for me in the future.  Traveling within the US and to foreign countries to participate in events is definitely on my agenda.  In 2006 I qualified for USAT’s Team USA short course duathlon in Gyor, Hungary for the 35 to 39 age group in May of 2007.  I plan on taking advantage of the opportunity and learning as much as I can to continue improving and competing.  Currently I enjoy sprints but plan on fitting in more distance training to build endurance for longer races.  I hope to include friends and family in as many races as possible; their presence helps me to push my limits.

5.  What would you tell someone new who is getting started with an active
lifestyle?

Take your time!  Build a base before trying to hammer out the marathon miles.  Make sure to eat a healthy diet and educate yourself on sports nutrition.  Remember to have fun, be safe, know the rules and encourage others along the way.  And, it’s never too late to start.

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