By Richard Estime, Senior, Medgar Evers College
The 35th Annual Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration 10K Run, a part of the Bed-Stuy Alive! weeklong calendar of activities, is this Sunday October 11.
Leading up to the race, we are spotlighting a different runner who will be participating to find out why they run.
Katherine Yang, 34
1.What made you sign up for the race?
I had lived for a brief period in Bed Stuy and was still working there at the time. I love the neighborhood, and I also love participating in events that are hosted in the community. Lastly, I love running the 10K distance, so it was a perfect fit!
2. How long have you been running? Do you exercise regularly and if so, how often? Are you involved in other sports?
I have been running since I was a little girl, but I didn't start to "get serious" till 2009. I exercise about 4-5 times a week. Other than running, I participate in Capoeira with Raices de Brasil.
3. How do you get yourself prepared for the race? Have you made any changes in your diet to prepare?
I don't train too seriously because of my work schedule, but I will loosely follow a training plan that my running group, the Dashing Whippet, posts. My general training plan besides following a loose schedule is to breathe, treat my body well, and push when possible. For longer distances, 10K+, I usually eat spaghetti the evening before with a glass of wine.
4. How do you think this race will positively impact the community/neighborhood of Bed Stuy and what do you think would be a good strategy to help people within the community become healthier and exercise more often?
I really enjoyed neighbors cheering on runners, even putting out their own tables of water. I even saw one of my students who lives in the neighborhood. With all this said, I think races such as these have the potential to raise interest about running and healthy lifestyles as well as providing a common event to cheer. A good strategy would be to host events such as these as well as support groups to run, walk, bike one or two times a week.
5. How will the race benefit you personally?
Support from the community...nothing can compare to warm, encouraging cheers as one is running.
6. Would you run the race again? Would you recommend the race to others?
Yes to both!
**There is still time for you to register to run, walk, or bike ride; Until Thursday, October 8, BK Readers will receive a $15 off registration at www.nycruns.com with discount code BKReader**
