Runner’s World+ Member: Rebecca Fairfax Clay
Rebecca is a Runner’s World+ member. Join her and thousands of others chasing their goals with day-by-day training plans, expert advice from editors and coaches, and unlimited digital access. We regularly feature members online and in print!
Until I turned 60, I had hardly run 10 minutes in my life, preferring to ski, lift weights and do yoga. This was because as a kid in suburban Boston, I was always the one in gym class with the red face and about to pass out. Clearly, running and I were not meant to be.
Moving to 7000’ above sea level in 2012 eventually changed all that. Five years later, I met my now husband who had long run in races for fun. Somehow, I got the crazy idea that maybe my time had come, and John started to show me how.
It was hardly easy at first but I never thought about giving up—I loved this new challenge. I still wheezed and my face turned beet red, but each time it just got that much easier. And John was by my side the whole way.
In 2018, I signed up for my first 5K—not only did I finish but I was not last. After more 5Ks came 10Ks, including one each in Vancouver and England last year where high-altitude training helped with both speed and endurance. Next goal is a half-marathon when runners worldwide start racing again.
The more I logged miles, the more I knew there was a lot more I wanted to know. So I turned to Runner’s World+ for guidance, inspiration and tips. Always so appreciated.
Running is now an ingrained habit—I cannot imagine going long without it. Usually, I want to run faster or add another mile the next time we go out. So much to look forward to!
We have fantastic, inspiring routes—big sky, hilly roads and dusty trails right outside the door. Most of the time, we’re out there alone with mountains on three sides and gorgeous 360 views. We always mix it up, but there is always decent elevation gain and breath-catching downhills. Before COVID, we also did weekly track workouts with our running club, Santa Fe Striders.
I only wear Mizuno Wave Rider Knits—they’re light and cool and I hardly notice them on my feet.
My legs, lungs, and heart are stronger than they’ve ever been—no more beet red!
I was up to 10 miles training for my first half-marathon here in Santa Fe this May, but it was canceled due to the coronavirus. Still working on distance while trying to get faster on the shorter runs. After that, who knows?
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