Emma Notario finds movement and rhythm through running
Emma Notario (second from left) celebrates a running adventure.
Why do you run?
I run for a variety of reasons: I run because it’s become a large part of how I start my day; I run because I enjoy the movement and the rhythm; I run because it allows me time away from screens and noise; I run because of the numerous health benefits, and I run because running has allowed me to meet so many amazing people that I would otherwise never connect with.
Roads or trails?
Roads, although am hoping to spend more time on trails post-Achilles injury.
What's your connection to RCTC?
I joined RCTC in 2018 by way of my friendship with club co-founder Liz (Derstine). I know Liz from running with PRC (Portland Running Company) and the now-defunct Tuesday Night Track Club in West Linn. Fun fact: Liz and I ran our first Hood to Coast on the same team back in 2009. She left our van in the dust with her speediness but we had fun ☺
Where are you at with the sport right now?
I think I am at somewhat of a crossroads. I came to running later in life – age 36 – and ran a half-marathon in Eugene. Having been a 100m hurdler and long jumper in HS and never run further than 2 miles, I really enjoyed the approach and social aspect of long distance running training. Numerous 5ks, 10k, halves, and 11 marathons later – including a BQ which led to me running Boston in 2016 - I’ve had a lot of fun running but recently had issues with fatigue and injury. Guess it happens to us all. I’m recovering from a nasty Achilles injury that I ran on for far too long, but thanks to a few months off, the amazing Vince at NLPT and a bit of self-discipline, I can now run pain free. I just need to build my fitness back up and that is proving to be a challenge. I am determined to enjoy my running but I do miss the days of having a workout. Hopefully I can get back to that kind of shape and maybe train for something before I consider abandoning racing altogether.
What’s the most helpful piece of running wisdom you've received? What advice would you give to another?
Some of the best advice I’ve been given is from a friend whose support was the impetus behind me running faster marathons, which is that - for the most part – when you lace your shoes up to run, know what purpose that run holds. i.e. if it’s an easy run, make it easy. If you need to work hard, work hard. Sleep as much as you can and put your feet up when you can. Also, if you’re feeling crappy in your workouts, look to see what you were doing 10 days ago as that is often when things happen to put you over the edge. Again, give or take.
My advice to others: don’t sweat the “missed” days. If you are at the start line having done 90% of what’s in your training log, you are ready.
Tell us about your life outside of running!
I own a 1972 VW bus and when it’s back on the road I plan to go somewhere every weekend with my husband and the dogs and explore more of Oregon. I work at Reed College – since 2011 – I’m married with two grownup children and an adorable grandson (holy cow, it’s still weird to type that) and have two dogs (boxers: Rocco and Alma) and two cats (Ringo and Milo). I love gardening, baking, reading, cider, pizza, molasses cookies and lots more.
Anything else you'd like to share?
I set myself a goal of doing 10 pullups in a row by the end of the year. I’m still struggling to do 1 but am determined to work at this!! My upper body strength is lacking and yes, I do plan on rejoining the Tues-Thurs sessions at NLPT with Will.
I’m also a huge fan of Track and Field and watch as much as I can when I can find out who is streaming it (!!) I spent a day at the US Olympic Trials last June in Eugene and saw so many of my favorite athletes competing, but what was most awesome was the conversations I had after the women’s 10,000m final with Emily Infeld’s and Rachel Schneider’s Moms about what it’s like to watch their daughters compete at the highest level and how they handle the stress and nerves of it all. I had a lot in common with them even though my experience has only been at the HS level but I could relate to much of what they go through. It was a great day!
