Jennie Repsher
Written by Jill // January 19, 2011 // Runner Spotlight // 26 Comments // 4,031 views
Jennie Repsher
Resides: West Easton
Years Running: 10 months
Short Bio: Although I have only been running for a short time, the activity seemed like a natural progression in my new found journey for healthier living. In October of 2008, I was extremely overweight and smoked. I had an epiphany of sorts, and realized I could no longer go on the way I was living. I quit smoking and joined a gym (and actually used the facility). I found a website, www.sparkpeople.com, which offered free tracking of nutrition, calories, and cardio, along with motivational support through an online community. I worked hard and lost 70+ pounds.
And somewhere along the way, I realized how much I love this way of life.
Favorite race distance?
5k, because I have not ran many races longer than that. I will, however, be participating in the Super Bowl 10k, and am looking forward to the St. Luke’s Half Marathon in May – my first half!
Best race experience?
Being part of the Breakfast Club Runners’ (BCR) Meats team in the VIA marathon relay. It was my first race ever, and sharing that experience with BCR was indescribable. I ran the last leg (the shortest leg), and I still remember one of my teammates screaming, “Go Jennie,” from across the river. And when I came around the last corner, my teammates were waiting, and ran to the finish chute with me. And this was a group of people I had only met a month before. It was such an amazing experience. And I was hooked!
Jennie (middle) with her teammates, the BCR Meats, at the Lehigh Valley Marathon for VIA
Best piece of running advice you’ve ever received?
Start, finish, and have fun.
What do you enjoy most about running?
The freedom. Before I start running, I have all these random thoughts in my head. And then I run. I get lost in the music, focus on my pace and breathing, and enjoy the scenery. I honestly don’t even know what goes through my head during those miles, because by the time I finish, I’m just filled with a sense of accomplishment simply because I did finish. My mind is empty and relaxed, and even though I may be physically exhausted, I feel like I could take on just about anything.
What are some things you’ve learned about yourself from running?
I am strong, both mentally and physically. When I first started running, I used the Couch to 5k (C25K) program. And seriously thought I would die after jogging for 30 seconds. But I didn’t. Also, since I’ve started branching out into longer distances, I’ve learned how mental running is. Even though there may be times during a run where I just want to stop, I know if I push and talk myself through, I usually have no problem continuing on. Running may never be easy, but it is certainly becoming easier the more I train.
Do you have a favorite race?
The Warrior Dash was quite an experience. It is basically a 5k with various obstacles throughout. It involves running, water, mud and fire. I ran my first one in October, and will be running in another one in June.
What is your biggest running accomplishment, and why?
Right now, my biggest accomplishment, aside from the fact that I am actually running, was setting a PR in the Peeps Fest 5k. I wasn’t feeling my best that day, but finished the race in 27:36. I learned a lot about my ability to push myself even more, and was completely in awe with my time. My best time before that was 29:55 on Thanksgiving Day. So in a little more than a month, I shaved almost a minute and a half off my PR!
Running Heroes?
Since I’m new to the whole running scene, and don’t really follow sports, I am not really familiar with famous runners. But my personal running heroes are the members of the Breakfast Club Runners. They welcomed me with open arms, and cheer me every step of the way. And there are some seriously talented athletes in the group: several are training for the Tough Mudder, others are training for triathlons, and one is even training for a 100-mile race. Running with this group provides scores of motivation! But they are all normal people with jobs and families. We can all relate to them.
Jennie on her wedding day
26 Comments on "Jennie Repsher"
Congratulations Jennie… You are an inspiration to all of us to strive to be healthy and fit and that it can be accomplished… Good luck and continued success in your new found love……
Congratulations Jennie from your friends at Girls on the Run of Lehigh County!
Way to go jennie I’m very proud to know you
Wow! This is the coolest bio! Congratulations Jennie! Keep it up!
Laurie, I agree! Jennie is amazing and at the top of my hero list. Keep it up Jennie!!
You are amazing Jennie! You’ve done an awesome job and have motivated me to push myself further. I’m very proud of you!!
You already know I think YOU ROCK. I’m so proud of you and very happy to consider you a friend!!!
You are an inspiration to the BCR. Proud to know you!!!
Go Team Meat!
We love having you run with us….you should have mentioned the 10 mile trail run you did up on South Mountain! You did really great that day too!
100 miles….who would ever run that far? That’s crazy talk!
Jennie – WOW! So many accomplishments, way to go. Glad I can look to you for support & inspiration!
Jennie I am so proud of you!!! I always knew that you could do it and I am so happy that you now finally realize you can!!!! You are a great inspiration and an amazing friend. I’m so proud to be able to call you my best friend!! Keep up the good work. Love you
Jennie!!! You are famous!! I am so so so proud of you!! Here’s to many years of happy running!
Thank you everyone for the very kind words! I am awed that you see me as an inspiration!
Jennie, I am so in awe of everything you do! If I had half the heart you do I could do anything! You and Chris are my favorite table mates! Keep up the good work!
You are amazing, Jennie! A truly inspiring story. I can’t believe it’s only been 10 months. You look beautiful and healthy and happy. Keep up the good work!
Well done Jennie. It’s a very nice article and an inspirational message. Looking forward to running with you in the St. Luke’s Half Marathon.
Jennie. This is awesome. You have a lot of support from your friends but you could not have done this without your unbelieveable drive and determination. Whatever inspiration you may get from anyone you give back twofold. Don’t forget, Carbs are good too!
Awesome write up..you go girl!!..can’t wait to get back out there when it warms up..even a little
Look forward to running with you on May 1st. I hope that I can keep up!
Great job! We are all proud of you !
Hi Jennie,
From one Sparkie to another, I AM SO PROUD OF YOU! You are an inspiration and a motivator! I am thankful for sparkpeople.com
I’m so happy you joined up with the crazies and feel so lucky that I’ve had the opportunity to run with you. Not to mention eat breakfast with you! You’re such an inspiration!
Jennie! You go girl! You’re an inspiration to all!
Wow, Jennie! Truly an inspiration. Keep up the good work! I am also a beginner runner and loved reading your bio.
keep up the the great work. see ya on Saturday. RUN FAST!
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