Ultra Runners – Laurie Reinhart

This week’s ultra runner interview is with Laurie Reinhart, a local runner hailing out of Coopersburg whom you’re sure to see around at LVRR events. Laurie keeps a busy schedule between running her own business – she is a chiropractor – raising her daughter and running as she gears up for her upcoming 100 miler in July. (I’ve been warned not to remind her of the lunacy of running 100 miles in the heat of July … oops!) If you’ve ever met Laurie, the first thing you’ll immediately notice is how modest she is about her running when actually, she is a very strong ultra runner and finishes quite well in her events. But, she’s all about the fun times and friends she meets along the way which I must admit is a pretty great attitude to have.

How did you first get started?
I was introduced to trail running doing some of Ron Horn’s events, about 10 years ago. I wanted to do more trail running and started doing things with the Trail Dawgs of the Delaware Valley area. In that club, I made friends who were doing ultra marathon events, which intrigued me. Very fun and encouraging people, little by little they convinced me that it was something I could do.

What was your first race and what was the distance?
5k Turkey Trot in Chicago, IL

How many marathons had you done prior to your first ultra experience?
1 – Mayor’s Midnight Sun Run in Anchorage AK

How many miles a week do you run, on average?
I have NO idea. Right now, 40-50. That changes dramatically from one week to the next. Some weekends I do a long run with friends and some weekends I don’t. That can make the difference of 30 miles in a week. I’m very sporadic and at the mercy of life, which includes my chiropractic practice, my daughter and my home.

How many weeks does it take to train for an ultra?
That really depends on your base and what you determine to be the start of your training. I think ultra running is more of a life style. I’m always in shape to complete a 50k, which is a common and short ultra distance. I can’t imagine setting my sights on a 100k or 100 miler without knowing that if I wanted to, right now, I could go out and run 30 miles.

Patience has got to be the biggest key to ultra running. Did this come naturally to you or is it something you had to learn?
I might choose the word perseverance. I’m not sure that I am an especially patient person. But I am persistent and maybe a bit stubborn. At the beginning of an ultra run, I guess you have to be patient enough to go out slow and strong because eventually, its going to come down to perpetual motion. Simply putting one foot in front of the other and always moving forward.

What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned in ultra running?
The value of friendship, camaraderie and good will.

What have you learned about yourself from your experiences?
I really enjoy playing hard with other people.

What is your greatest ultra running accomplishment to date?
Massanautten Mountain Trail 100 miler

What are your goals for the future?
Run more 100s. There are 100 milers all over the country which provide a unique opportunity to see some very beautiful places and meet crazy wonderful people.

What distance would you recommend for a beginner?
50k

How would someone get started with ultras?
Make friends with people who are trail running and ultra running. It has got to be the most supportive and fun network of people I have ever known.

What is it that you love most about ultras?
challenge and adventure and accomplishment and satisfaction

Are you currently training for any races in particular and which one(s)?
Mason Dixon Longest Day 100k and Vermont 100 miler