My running life didn’t start until I was 24 years old when I met my now husband, Tom. Tom introduced me to the wonderful world of running which helped me get back into shape after each pregnancy and keep up the energy I needed to care for 5 children, work, and run races. My husband opened Golden Legs Running store in 2010. We hosted an abundance of group runs, races and winter running programs and met the most wonderful people that we still call good friends. At the age of 42, I ran my first marathon and qualified for the Boston Marathon. I was able to requalify and run Boston again in 2012, my last marathon. Health issues keep me from racing full marathons, so I have learned to embrace half marathons and enjoy logging miles more slowly and in the company of many dear friends. The running store lasted 5 years, but the friends are still with me. I continue to manage our Golden Legs Cycling club which has been going strong for 16 years (many of our cyclists are runners too). I work at the Mundelein Park & Recreation District and have the privilege of working with our 43rd Freedom Classic 5K committee continuing a community tradition of running every 4th of July. I’m beyond grateful to be able to run and share my passion with others.
Tracie Ouimet
