FNF: How did you start running?

LS: I started when I moved to San Francisco, for the same reasons as everyone does, just to get some exercise, lose some weight. That was pretty much it. I remember the first time I ran from the Haight to Ocean Beach. It was like 3 miles, and I was so happy with myself, kind of patting myself on the back. Then I realized I had to run back up! I got into the group (Lisbet has competed for many years for the USATF Club, Impala Racing Team), and discovered the longer I ran the better I ended up doing.

FNF: Who is your running role model?

LS: Joanie Benoit Samuleson, even though I wasn’t running at thoat point (when she won the 1984 Olympic Marathon). Also, Diana Fitzpatrick, on the Impalas. She was just a total role model of modesty and grace. She is now an ultra runner, and basically dominated the Pacific Association in the 90s. I used to think at the beginning of a race, don’t ever be in front of Diana! She was a total metronome of good pacing, which was what I desired to be.

FNF: What has been your most memorable running / racing experience?

LS: I would say it probably was qualifying for the trials in 1991 in Twin Cities. It was really the first time I had done a big time marathon. As a runner up, I would say this year (her performance at Twin Cities), because it was so much harder when you are 45. Back then I trained and I worked, and that was it, and now I think I appreciate it just a bit more.

FNF: What have you enjoyed about working with Focus-N-Fly?

LS: Its has been great. Obviously it was something new that I have done after running fairly successfully for several years. It was good for me to get out of my rut. Having Tom to give advice is great. Last spring I was just slowing down a lot and thought I was just aging. He encouraged me to get a blood test, which was something I hadn’t considered.

On this training cycle, pacing on long runs was faster than I was used to going. I think that probably helped. I think the pacing charts are really helpful to give you some good specifics. There is a really well put together amount of specificity. Every workout counts, even the rest days. I feel like the web based interface was really useful and helpful- I never kept a log before, but this kept me honest and was a bit of inspiration that gave me the ability to see where I’ve been while showed the progression.

FNF: What is one part of your racing routine you can’t do without (sleep, pre race meal, tie shoes certain way, other ritual)?

LS: Here is the thing. I have no ritual! I have basically eliminated anything I need to have before a marathon, so that if I have forgotten it, I won’t freak out. I eat a big dinner, but nothing else interesting. I have to have my shoes, but I have pretty much eliminated a reliance on everything else.

FNF: What is your favorite place to go for a run?

LS: Mount Tam (Mount Tamalpais in Marin County), the lakes. That is my Sunday, my go to church time, my hang out with my buds time. It is so wonderful.

FNF: In the next year, what goals do you hope to accomplish?