Misty Chandos

Secretary
Cedar Lake

IT′S THE JOURNEY, NOT THE DESTINATION

This is what running means to me. It′s getting up when it′s still dark outside and having the world to yourself, it′s having friends that are like family who share those miles and their inspirational stories, it′s accomplishing goals that you′ve set, and it′s about the dedication and discipline that you accept and invite as a runner. Running is a way of life, it′s about never giving up, it′s about digging deep within to keep going, and it′s about celebrating accomplishments in life.

I am 32 years old, the wife of a wonderful husband, and the mother of two beautiful little girls. Autumn is six years old, and Brooke is four years old. Balancing family, work, and my training can be challenging at times, but with the support of my husband, I am able to continue to do what I love. As for my girls.. they think it′s cool that mommy runs races, and they think that I ALWAYS win (ssh..we won′t tell them any different).

My first race was the Friendship 5K at Wicker Park in Highland. That is where it all started. I huffed and puffed and almost passed out at the second mile, but kept going and finally finished. At that point, I decided I should probably start training. What would I train for? I really didn′t know yet.

I decided to join the Team in Training and run the Indianapolis Mini Marathon. I raised money for the Leukemia Society, and finished knowing that through my dedication I was helping people who were fighting for their lives battling this terrible disease. Considering I was already trained to run 13.1 miles, I joined Opportunity Enterprises that summer and started training for my first full marathon. I met so many wonderful people, made so many great friends, and had the time of my life. I finished the marathon and was determined to run the next one faster.

Over the last two years as a Calumet Strider, I have competed in the Gold Cup Series, ran a number of races from 5k′s to marathons, and made running a huge part of my life.

In 2005, as a member-at-large for Lake County, I organized and coached the first beginner running program. My fellow coaches and I helped new runners complete their first 5k, which was the Friendship race at Wicker Park. I hope that between all those very difficult first miles I managed to expose the new runners to all the joys I have found in running.

As a board member of the Calumet Striders, I plan on coaching another beginning running program in April 2006 to help new runners accomplish their goals and to build membership for the club. I also will continue to organize group runs for our seasoned runners throughout the year, as well as organized speedwork during the spring and summer months.

It′s all about the journey and the people that you share that journey with. I am honored to be a part of such a wonderful running organization. I look forward to the many miles and memories that we all will share.

Contact Information:

E-Mail:

Cell: (219) 689-1106

Updated: 2/11/2006