Each month we highlight runners, walkers, and athletes that inspire you to keep setting new, scary goals, and remind us why we run together in the first place. 

Cross train with Fleet Feet Syracuse outside at Ryder Park during our 11-week training program, FFXT. 

Athlete Spotlight: Margaret Jividen

By Margaret Jividen

Entering 2020, I felt optimism as we entered a new decade. I had just moved in with my partner to Baldwinsville and I was excited to make this step in adulthood. I am somewhat of a habitual “resolutioner.” I’d start going to the gym more regularly in January and fade out somewhere in February. I started running in early 2020 because it was accessible, and a few friends had told me I’d love it. I was also hoping it would help with my anxiety, depression, and help me healthily drop the 30+ pounds I’d gained in college.

Running didn’t immediately fix any of this. I ran the sidewalks of Baldwinsville from the end of January to my first 5k race on March 14th. By then, things already felt tenuous, uncertain, and scary. I had planned on staying and connecting with the local runners, but instead, I awkwardly awaited the race start while attempting to stay away from the crowd. I was pleased with my race time: 30:11. Sub-30 was so close, I was sure I’d have it before summer began!

In spring, every time I ran I saw something new and unsettling: caution tape on playgrounds and closed signs on shop doors. I dashed across the street to avoid other runners, fearing to even make eye contact. I stalled out on my running. I began fearing more miles, made excuses, and skipped runs. But I kept moving: running was keeping me sane as I navigated the pandemic. 

I didn’t get anywhere close to that 5k time during the summer. I kept quitting a mile into an attempt and psyching myself out. I was scrolling along on Instagram when something caught my eye: A Fleet Feet ad for fall trail running. It sounded like the perfect way to bridge my love for hiking and my new hobby.

I nervously emailed Coach Laura asking if I could still join along. I was met with a yes and immediate support; that support has not stopped since then. 

Trail running with such an amazing group made me fall truly in love with running, and specifically running with FF. It didn’t matter that I was new to FF or that I was younger and perhaps a little too talkative. I was welcomed by coaches and other runners alike, and I got advice I hadn’t even been looking for. Even if I was running uphill in the rain and dark, I was doing it with other runners. 

One September day, a teammate tried to convince me to do the longer mileage loop, and I fell into an old habit: I made excuses. No one let me though: my teammates and Laura pushed me along through the trails of Green Lakes. I not only ran those extra miles (first 10 miler!), but I finally got that sub 30 minute 5k PR (29:03). That was the first day I felt like a runner, but more importantly, I realized I had found community in Syracuse.

I had laughed and refused when the group decided on a half marathon for the end goal. I hadn’t known what I was capable of with the support and knowledge of all the experienced athletes around me. Another runner helped me dig deep to get through the last two miles around the lakes and I felt a pride I hadn’t known in years.

I’m so thankful for everyone at Fleet Feet. I’m now doing the annual distance program and I’ve signed up for a 20-mile trail race. I’ve met so many more people and cherish every long-run conversation. With the guidance of my awesome coaches, I’ve found myself running further and faster than I thought was possible. My body has slowly changed before my eyes, and my mindset has too. I’m learning to trust my body and the hard work I put in. I’ve also gained practical knowledge about run nutrition, shoes, hydrating, and training plans. Everyone is eager to share their experience with me.

I’m now excited to set new goals, and I know I can reach them with the support of the FF Syracuse community. Running has helped me find my identity as a young adult, and has helped to manage my mental health. I’m especially grateful for the way running has gotten me through the pandemic. I’m now optimistic and I hope I see smiling faces at my first marathon this fall, supported by the friends and inspirations I’ve met in the past year.

Fleet Feet Running Club, Syracuse Training Programs currently open:

• Fleet Feet Cross-Training (FFXT) - A weekly strength and conditioning workout to make you stronger, leaner, and add diversity to your training. Next FFXT training session starts April 12th 2021.
• Monday Night Free Runs - Join us for a free and easy, 3-6 mile run from the E. Syracuse store every Monday in March & April.