This is the seventy-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

“Hey there, I’m Morgan Pera!

I was born and raised in Esko, MN. I have  always had a passion for sports and the atmosphere it brings. I grew up playing  basketball, soccer, softball and also managed the volleyball team. I found myself attached to the competitiveness, and of course the medals you would get at the end.

The lessons I’ve learned from the sports atmosphere have helped me become who I am today. It has transformed my life for the better every time I lace up my running shoes or go outside for an activity. Incorporating healthy habits into my life has helped me live a happier and more fulfilling lifestyle.

I know I can always count on running to help me start the day out on a good note or clear my head after a long day of work. So lace up your running shoes and get ready for an epic adventure of reading this.”

Interview

Why is running important to you?

Running is important to me because it keeps me active and I’m just overall  in a better mood if I get out the door for my run! After competitive sports ended in high school, I wanted to find an outlet for my energy and competitiveness. It took me a few years, but then I found running. I realized I can be as competitive with myself, as I was with team sports. I used to HATE running back in high school. I played softball and was a catcher, so the most running I had to do was just make it to first base. Then I would get a courtesy runner, which was always wonderful. Let’s face it, they were always faster then I was! Now, it’s a big staple in my day.  

My favorite times to run are early in the morning or really late at night. I love running when it’s dark out. I feel as though running at night is a huge mental game because I can’t really see the typical “running markers,” so I’m able to just go go go and not worry too much about it.

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

I’ve been getting much better about this! Before I wouldn’t do anything but run. I don’t even like stretching pre-run (I still don’t do that). I am getting much better about my strength exercises though! I absolutely love foam rolling too. That is by far my favorite thing to do after a run, especially the long ones. I mean seriously, who doesn’t love laying out on the floor after a run and rolling around? Best. Thing. Ever.  

As far as injuries go, I’ve been pretty dang lucky. I did, however, have both of my ACL’s replaced. One when I was in 7th grade, and then the other when I was 22. Both were basketball injuries. Surprisingly, my knees don’t give me any trouble while I run! The worst thing now are knots in my right calf, and every now and then I’ll get a little hip flexor pain, but nothing that sticks around for too long. I lost a toe nail once – that was pretty gnarly. It was after that, that I could officially call myself “half a runner.” I’m not to full “runner” standards yet, but I’m working  on it!

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

Knowing I will be in such a better mood keeps me going. I’m also a big fan of being able to say “Yeah, I did that.” If the weather is just plain garbage out (snowing, raining, windy, middle of a tornado?), yeah, I will definitely run in that just to say I did it. Cause running is bad ass, but running in shitty weather? Big bad-assery.  

Who is in your workout support group (training partners, people to bounce ideas off of, etc.)?

My mom is my biggest supporter. She also runs, so she’s an easy target to ask my endless questions to. Plus, she’s a mom, so she knows everything. I very much value her advice.

I also can’t leave out Kyle! He’s my coach, makes my plans, listens to my crazy dumb questions if I have them, and is just there to support me.

Running partners? Other than my mom, I generally tend to run alone. I used to totally dislike running with people cause I couldn’t master the whole talk while you run thing. Now, I love running with others. I would say Nichole is really the only other person I run with, when our schedules allow it!  Also shout out to Ava and Macy, who will just let me sit there and ramble on about random races, random professionals, which shoes I prefer, or just letting me geek out in general about running. It’s so fun!

When/what is your next race?

The next race on the docket that I’m already signed up for is 2023 Grandma’s Marathon. I’m debating on trying to get into the Superior Spring 50KM trail race. I think it would be the most epic challenge and accomplishment if I  could tackle it. Plus it just adds to the motivation to get out and train. Go big or go home, eh?

Do you prefer roads or trails and why?

I used to love roads only, but that was before I tried trails. They both offer me something different, so I won’t sell all my love to one or the other. Trails offer me a total different level of solitude. I don’t have to worry about being hit by a car, but I do have to worry about, oh I don’t know, bears and skunks. I love that there is just so much to learn about no matter which you prefer.

What do you think about while you run?

Anything! I think a lot about the different places I want to go, what my dream life would look like. Lately it’s been about Christmas gift ideas for people. Really, wherever my mind wonders I let it. Sometimes my brain shuts off and I can just run – I almost like those the best. 

What is your most memorable race or running achievement?

2022 Grandmas Marathon. By far! It was my first ever marathon and it was AMAZING. I felt so good through the entire race. I went in wanting to finish under 5 hrs, and while I didn’t, I wasn’t mad about it at all. When I realized my goal wasn’t going to be met, I just changed my mindset and had the best time. I was really just happy to be out there. I’m also a sucker for the snacks at the end, so I was very happy to get a chocolate milk and a bagel with peanut butter when I finished. 

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

I think it was 2015 Garry Bjorklund half marathon. I was fresh out of high school and did it with my mom and her friend. Did I train? Absolutely not. Worst race ever. I hated every second of it. I’m pretty sure a picture of me passed out after the race with a bottle of ibuprofen laying on me still exits in the depths of my mom’s camera roll. Now I laugh at how silly and naive I was. Ohhh to be 18 and know it all.

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

I’m a sucker for a good book. I love coffee shop mornings. I’m probably the most laid back, go with the flow person you will ever meet. I love to travel. I swear like a sailor. I value my friendships and my family more than anything in the world. I also love the TV shows Friends, Law and Order SVU, and pretty much any crime show, as long as they are fake I should say. Don’t make me watch 20/20 or Dateline. Those are WAY too real for me and I will have nightmares. In closing, I would say reach for an activity that you never knew was possible because it can have such a big impact on your life!

Closing

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