Melanie Brender

When did you join TWB?

May 2018

Primary Focus?

A return to fitness, and a healthy relationship with the sport as I balance it with full-time work

PR’s?

10K: 33:53 Half Marathon: 1:14:38 Marathon: 2:51:27

Long Term Running Goals?

Qualify for the 2024 Olympic Marathon Trials, PR in a common race distance

Favorite Race?

Raleigh Relays 10k

Favorite Running Shoes?

Brooks Adrenaline

Favorite Part of being a TWB Runner?

I have some incredible friendships with TWB teammates and coaches.

What motivates you to run?

The desire to improve, and to contribute to my team

If you’re not running you’re…

Working, watching Jeopardy, enjoying a good cannoli, or scraping snow off my car in the middle of Michigan winter

Where you wish you could run..

A single-track trail in the woods on a sunny day

What is your PROUDEST PR?

My Raleigh Relays 10k PR is the one I will always cherish. In 2014, I placed third at the race. My mom was able to watch the event via live stream before passing away a few days later. In 2015, I was able to come back to Raleigh and win the 10k with a new PR. One of my teammates was seconds behind me. We were able to celebrate together.

What is your favorite Workout?

Anything in spikes on the track

I can’t run without….

The right shoes

T-Shirt or Sweater?

Sweater

Rain or Snow?

Anything but yellow snow

Superman or Batman?

Superman(wishes there was a female option)

Puzzles or BOARD GAMES?

Both!

Short shorts or tights?

Tights for warming up before workouts or races, shorts for just about everything else