About this sponsorship: In honor of the 60thanniversary of Sir Edmund Hillary’s historic ascent of Mount Everest, Patch and Grape-Nuts are teaming up to highlight those who inspire people around them to climb their own mountains.
Facing the Challenge
Michelle Ormond had never been a runner. But one day, tired of watching runners fly by as she sat in her car, Ormond became tired of sitting.
“You have to make up your mind that you are tired of sitting in the car watching other people run and do it yourself,” Ormond says. “I used to hate sitting there waiting for the runners to cross at [at a local park]. I was sick of feeling like I wasn’t doing anything.”
Ormond decided she wanted to get in shape and find something to do. That’s when she discovered Spark’s Running’s 5K training program.
Finding the Inspiration
As Ormond started running, she said not only does she feel healthier and happier, her family sees a difference in her as well. Ormond’s two daughters have also shown an interest in running and being active.
The biggest challenge facing non-runners is the first mile, Ormond says. But once you get past that first stretch—it all becomes worth it.
Reaching the Goal
After Ormond finished her first training session with Spark Running, she signed up for another session with the goal of running in a half-marathon before she turned 45.
“I ran that half-marathon the week before I turned 45, so it is never too late to start,” Ormond says. “I didn’t start running until I was 44 and I was very out of shape. Age is definitely not an excuse not to do it.”
And how she feels after succeeding?
“I love the way I feel after—knowing my body is strong enough to run,” Ormond says. “I love the feeling of pushing yourself and seeing how far you can run. I never thought I could run a mile, much less 13. It’s an amazing feeling knowing you’ve accomplished that.”
Read more: Spark Running Helps Local Woman Get Active