Alex and Cassie Williams of Caro plan to run 100 races in 2012.
After running 52 races last year, you would think Alex and Cassie Williams of Caro would slow down a bit in 2012. However, that isn’t the case; they’re focused and determined double the number of races they run this year.
Yes, that makes 100 races in 2012!
The couple plan to run about two races a week in their Vibram toe shoes, varying in distance, to finish 2012 with 100 races. The Williams are part of the Element Race Series in Midland which takes care of 13 races, and they enjoy traveling Michigan for the rest. “We are thankful to be out there donating to charities and helping people through running and because of running,” explained Alex.
Last week Alex and Cassie’s running journey brought them to Flint, where they both ran the Cinco De Mayo race as their 40th race of the year. In fact, their visit to Flint was well worth it as Cassie was the first female finisher and Alex finished third overall.
I was able to ask Alex and Cassie a few questions to learn more about their background and amazing journey running all over Michigan.
Was the Cinco De Mayo Race your first race in the area this year?
We ran the Pot O’ Gold 4 mile in Flint the same night we had already ran the Clare Irish Festival 5K in the morning. Then the next day we ran the Bay City St. Pat’s Day 5K race. We have also run the Flushing races.
Do you have all your races planned out for the year?
Yes and no. Some of the big ones we plan ahead like Qualifier, Volkslaufe, and Crim, but we go monthly signing up a little early and then some last minute runs.
What does your typical week look like?
Most weeks are Saturday and Sunday back to back races but we’ve done two races two hours apart three times this year alone, three races in less than two hours (a 1 mile at 8am, 5K at the same event at 8:30am, then six minutes away a 4.5 mile race at 9:30 am – we both took first in our age divisions for all 3 races). Monday is off or a distance of 12-20 depending on the marathon schedule and how beat up we are. Plus, I (Alex) work anywhere from 50-60 hours a week! Tuesday is an easy 6-8, Wednesday is off or cross train, and Thursday is a progression run of 7-9 miles. Friday is off, well…except for Friday night volleyball at the school for two and a half hours. Then race time!
How are your bodies holding up with such a demanding schedule?
Some aches but we are both very good at listening to our bodies and knowing when rest is needed. We also know when it’s go time! We stretch a lot after our runs and sleep.
What has been your favorite event so far in 2012? What are you looking forward to?
Alex – my all time favorite was the Huron County Airport Twilight 5K run (a few weeks ago) on the airport strip, flat, and I took 2nd overall and finally beat my high school cross country 5K time of 18:51 with a 18:36! I’m looking forward to the Crim; it’s the only time I haven’t beaten since high school!
Cassie– IDIDARUN in Linden was my favorite because it was at night and on trails and pavement so you got the feel for both, and it was a challenge with the hills. Warrior Dash in Mt. Morris is totally awesome, and the Crim is also one of my favorites because there are so many people there cheering and keeping you motivated, and so many different kind of people running.
What else would you like to share?
Focus on the goal and then use your determination and take it!
Now it’s your turn. What’s is YOUR focus and determination?
Maybe your focus isn’t running 100 races in a year, but I hope the Williams’ story and their determination to make it happen has motivated you to take the next step to accomplishing your goals in 2012.
