A year.

Leave it to me to be reminded of an anniversary and then promptly forget to do anything about it.

Yesterday was the one year anniversary of my runners' first run! That's right: March 14, 2010 was the first group run, the day the 5k training began.

First group run -- March 14, 2010 -- new runners and some bloggy buddies!

What a difference a year makes.

A year ago I think the new runners all thought I was nuts and that there was no way they were going to really run a full 5k. Who was I kidding?

Apparently, I was not kidding them because I am happy to report they are still running. Those moms who started out skeptical became super strong running mamas. One year later, still running. And, if you'll indulge me, I'll share with you what they are all up to.

Janis (originally profiled HERE) ran a 31:09 in that first 5k and has gone on to run three more 5ks, two 10ks and she ran the 9.2 mile leg in the Winter Marathon Relay last month. She has a 27:50 5k PR and a 1:01:44 10k PR. Speedy times! Just as impressive, though, is that she is currently training for the 13.1 NYC half marathon in April. Janis is going to rock that race!

Bridget (profiled HERE) has shown remarkable dedication to her running. She posted a 32:47 in her first 5k and has since run five more 5ks, two 10ks, a 3.5-miler and the 5.7 mile leg of the relay with Janis. Bridget has a 5k PR of 28:46, a 10k PR of 1:04:17 and she is also training for the 13.1 NYC half marathon. I know it will be an impressive debut!

Jen M (profiled HERE) rocks one of my favorite mantras: Run your own race. That's what she does. Jen wanted to break 30 minutes in the 5k (after running a 33:18 in her first one) so she set out to do it. And do it she did. In December, she ran 29:40 after a few months of solid, diligent training. I can't wait to see how she does in her 2011 races!

Jen F (profiled HERE) crossed the line of her first 5k in 35:29 and has lowered her PR to 31:19. She ran a total of three 5ks in 2010 and a 10k. Now, she's looking to have a strong showing in this year's Freihofer's Run for Women, which was her first 5k last year. I have no doubt that she will do it!


Lisa trained for the 5k last year while also chasing after her very active toddler twins. She cruised over the finish line in 38:02 and then went and got pregnant with her third child! She'll be back, lacing up those running shoes after having her new baby, I just know it. And we'll all be ready to run with her!

The running group after the Freihofer's Run for Women.
Bridget is kneeling on the left.
Jen M., Janis, Jen F., and Lisa are standing to my right. 

Cheers to the no-longer-new runners! You've more than earned your moniker, ladies:

Strong Running Mama. No doubt.

Keep on running!

~ Felice