We’re featuring some of the members of our Spring 2021 training team leading up to the virtual Eugene half marathon and marathon. Pamela Bilyeu is training for her first half marathon. Her advice to others who are training for a race, especially a virtual one: “Find a virtual community to connect with!”
Why did you join Team Run Hub?
I was looking to add more structure/discipline to my runs, and to connect with others in this wonderful running community. This is my first time training with team RH, and my first time doing a half marathon!
How did you fall in love with running?
I loved track and field when I was much younger. However, it wasn’t until 2020 that I began to hit the pavement (and trails). Like many others, I was feeling a little out of sorts with the stress of social distancing and the political climate, so I took all that energy and headed outside! For some reason I was able to cement a running habit in a PNW fall, and it has been so profoundly rewarding (even as we headed into winter). I have found running to not just be a means of keeping my wits about me in some pretty crazy times, but it has also taught me a lot about appreciating all that my body allows me to do. And even more so, how much more I can still achieve.
How do you stay inspired to run during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Life is unpredictable…and really, I’m learning running can be too. However, despite all the unexpected twists and turns that come at us, I know that at the very least my next run is always waiting for me.
What is your running mantra when things get tough?
“You don’t have to quit…”
What has been your proudest moment during the training team so far?
I LOVED doing the two mile time trial. Pushing myself at the SEHS track on a dark, cold, and rainy night. As I ran around in circles I kept imagining where Civic used to be and all the fond childhood memories there…and listening to the cars zoom through the large puddles on 24th and Amazon. It wasn’t until I had about a couple laps left that I was coming around the bend and saw one of the coaches (Heike McNeil) standing there, clapping, and quietly rooting me on. It was in that moment I realized how far I had come in my personal journey over the past eight years. There is no way I would’ve been able to run a single lap without the likelihood of passing out, but here I was, finishing my first sub 8 mile in over twenty years. It felt pretty amazing to feel my heart practically beating out of my chest in thumps of joy, and not fear.
Pamela’s goal is to finish the half marathon in under 2:20. We wish you the best of luck Pamela!
