Mary Beth started running in 2007 to lose weight. She ran her first 5K in Van Cortlandt Park in October 2007 and her first half-marathon in Brooklyn in 2008. She has since completed multiple half-marathons, four marathons, five half-Ironman triathlons, four ultramarathons, one Ironman, and countless shorter distances.

Q&A with Mary Beth

What program do you coach?
Group Training

What languages do you speak?
English

How would you describe your coaching style?
I’d describe my coaching style as collaborative and encouraging. I try to listen to runners about their goals and fears and adjust my style to fit their needs accordingly.

What is your proudest coaching moment?
Whenever a runner achieves any goal, no matter how small, that’s when I’m the proudest. Whether that’s in a race or a workout, seeing a runner work hard and achieve results is the best feeling.

What is your favorite workout to coach and why?
Ooooh, good question! Honestly, I love a good negative split tempo run--especially the last mile when you really have to dig in to hit that target time.

How many years have you been coaching?
Seven years as a running coach, three years with NYRR specifically.

Please list any awards, achievements, or certifications below.
USA Track and Field (USATF) Level 1 coaching certification, Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) Level 1 coaching certification

What is your favorite place to run in New York City?
Astoria Park in Queens and the Bridle Path in Central Park

What is your favorite NYRR race?
The Pride Run! I love the happiness and joy that emanates from that race. And I love the costumes.

What is your personal running motto?
You are what you train to be.