This is the fifty-second edition of The Duluth Runner Interview Series, where I get in touch with (mainly) local runners and athletes to share a bit of their story while inspiring others to pursue an active lifestyle.

Intro

Today’s guest has, in my opinion, a wonderful relationship with running. She loves to soak-in her surroundings and appreciates each detail (I’m sure many of you can relate!) as she runs around the wonderful city of Duluth.

I’ll let her tell the rest of her story, today’s guest is…Tara Gallagher!!

Interview

Why is running important to you?

By running, I hope to live a longer, healthier, and joyous life. Life is short and can change at any moment. I run to maintain my physical and mental health so I have the best chance of living life to the fullest.

What are the top two or three things that you do to prevent injury? Have you been susceptible to certain injuries in the past?

The types of barriers I’ve encountered include weather/exercise induced asthma and patellofemoral pain (runner’s knee). Running has improved my lung strength and the runner’s knee improved with healthier eating and weight loss. Below are my injury-prevention go to’s:


1) I absolutely LOVE using foam rollers and free-form stretching (imagine a bear trying to get at an itch or a contemporary dancer). I do this daily and it has helped me significantly with identifying areas of my body that need attention. By being more in-tune with my body’s regular tension and pressure points, I know that I will have a much better running experience if I stretch and roll.

2) Knowing when to REST and to SEEK HELP. By becoming more in-tune with my body, I am able to understand when my body is signalling it’s time to rest and to recognize the earlier signs of injury. Since runner injuries happen more over time, being able to recognize the early signs has been significant in preventing serious or long-term injury.

3) Running hills. Life isn’t perfect and neither should your runs be perfectly flat. I personally love running hills: even if you’re sucking air and going at a snail’s pace passers by think you’re badass for running uphill (double points if its in winter!), it’s an opportunity to slow down, develop awesome quad muscle lines, and the view from the top is always worth it. Plenty of opportunities in the Twin Ports to progress your gradient and build strength!

What keeps you motivated when you don’t feel like heading out the door for a workout?

Having someone–or something–hold me accountable has certainly helped. My number one incentive has always been my health, but my top motivator would be my 5yo blue heeler, Arlo. I am grateful to have Arlo, who exudes endless energy and excitement the moment we step outside.

When/what is your next race?

Ever since I learned of the Detroit Free Press International Half Marathon and its experience of running across the Ambassador Bridge from Canada to the US, I was hooked. When I run races, I don’t seek out fast courses, but those I can soak in the scenery and enjoy the experience.

Do you prefer roads or trails and why?

Both. I really enjoy running along roads with wide scenic views and exploring, zig-zagging through neighborhoods I’ve never been. When running trails, I love the sense of flying through the woods and I feel like a kid as I bop and dodge roots and rocks. I feel I get the best of both worlds when I run Skyline and it had been my absolute favorite to run when the City offered the community the incredible opportunity to enjoy the Enger loop car-free.

Yet, without that protection it is one of the most dangerous routes to to be a pedestrian due to the lack of pedestrian infrastructure and cars reckless with the turns, exceeding speeds, and being distracted by the view. Was incredibly disappointed by the destruction of this opportunity by those who vandalized the barriers and broke them down as it was an “inconvenience of their cars.” I strongly hope the community recognizes the value of pedestrian safe infrastructure and the City builds infrastructure along Skyline as it was evident from the road closure how many people enjoyed the safety of walking without fear of being hit by a vehicle.

What do you think about while you run?

I’m often in awe of my surroundings. Admiring how a neighbor tends to their lawn or decorates their home, looking out over the lake to notice the shimmering blue and turquoise from the different water depths, and generally excited to see how beautiful the city looks as I zip through it.

What is your most memorable race or running achievement?

My most memorable running achievement to this date would have to be running the Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon virtually in 2020. Running a half is an achievement in itself, but for many running their distances in 2020 meant a greater challenge of running without the energy of the cheering crowds or support of water stations.

With so many struggling in 2020, I decided to earn my bib through Gmas charity partner program by donating to Still Kickin and run in remembrance of my dad, Kevin Gallagher, who passed 5 years ago. The roads were still quiet at this time so I selected Skyline Drive to complete my distance so that I could watch the sunrise over Lake Superior, soak in the views of the city as it slowly awakened, and reflect on how lucky I am to live in such a beautiful place.

During my run, I was surprised by friends and family who popped up along my course to cheer me on and my training buddy Arlo joined me halfway through so he could cross my finish line with me. When I reached my finish line, I was welcomed by cheering friends, colorful and creative banners, and my favorite–a hot cup of strong black coffee. I was already so proud of this experience of supporting a charity and running the distance entirely on my own, that it was only an added surprise that I PR’d and finally broke the 2hr benchmark.

Name one racing experience you would like to forget (please describe).

Truthfully, I have none. The only instance I can imagine wanting to forget are the times I compared myself to other runners in the event. I’ve learned it’s best to focus on myself and enjoy my experience.

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What is something non-running related you would like to share with readers?

I love getting outdoors and in nature as much as possible. Duluth has an abundance of nature and trails to explore, so there is always something new to discover. I enjoy exploring Duluth by hiking, biking, and picking up trash (rather than sitting in front of the TV, I put on my earbuds, turn on a podcast, grab my bucket and pick-stick then I’m out the door).

Closing

Many thanks to Tara for agreeing to stop by Duluth Runner and share some of her knowledge/experiences with everyone. I hope you enjoyed this edition of the Interview Series – stick around for more to come!