Happy Monday, BWRC! This week’s Member Spotlight Monday is Erika Hansen. Erika is one of BWRC’s coaches for the Couch to 5K Program; read the post below to learn more about Erika and why she enjoys running and BWRC!

Q: How long have you been a runner?

Erika: I started running about 9 years ago and started taking it more seriously within the last few years.

Q: Why did you start running?

Erika: I originally just started for fitness, but soon became a runner for stress relief and then fun!

Q: How did you find BWRC?

Erika: I found BWRC last summer, when I began training for my first Chicago Marathon.

Q: Why did you join BWRC?

Erika: Training for the marathon was a great introduction to the club and its’ members. It’s so great to have a group of people organizing runs and workouts for you to keep you motivated. I also really love meeting new people and making new friends, and BWRC is a perfect opportunity for that.

Q: Why do you run?

Erika: My primary reason for running is health–both physical and mental. I also run to challenge myself and accomplish new goals; it’s pretty fun to watch yourself progress and do things you didn’t think that you could.

Q: Do you have any upcoming races or goals we should know about?

Erika: I’ll be running the North Shore Half Marathon in June, and I do intend to run a sub 30 5K one of these days! Oh, and I’m getting married in May…that’s a pretty big goal, too!

Q: What does BWRC mean to you?

Erika: To me, BWRC means an amazing opportunity to run with people of all abilities who love it, just like you do, and that’s really inspirational. All of the members are so welcoming!