Jeff

Why I Run: For a sense of personal accomplishment, stress management, and to enjoy nature

2021 Goal: Complete the 40-mile circumnavigation of Mt. St. Helens Run

Personal Mantra: "No Finish Lines"

Fun Fact: I began running in 2017. I went from my first 5k to a my first 50k in 365 days.

Favorite Anderson Race: St. Paul Winter Carnival Half-Marathon

Instagram handle: @JeffRunsWild on Instagram

KAREN

Favorite Distance: The Marathon.....This fall will be #28.

2021 Goal: Every year I get older I realize how lucky I am to be able to continue to run....SO my number one goal is to stay injury free!

What I Love Most About Running: I love everything about running but my new favorite is being a traveling runner!  It's a great way to see the world!  (bio photo is from Rome!)

Personal Mantra: YOU CAN DO THIS!

Favorite Anderson Race: This year was my first Chocoholic Frolic and I had a blast.  I've run every distance of the Securian Financial races and can't say enough about how well organized all their races are!  Plus keeping warm before the start is AWESOME!

Follow Me: @avocadorunners on Instagram

ANNA

Why I Run: To enjoy the outdoors and be outside in all of Minnesota’s amazing weather! It’s my excuse to explore and spend time in nature!

Favorite Distance: Road - half marathon, trail - 50k

2021 Goal: Get stronger, stay healthy and crush my next ultra!

Personal Mantra: You are strong and with every step, closer to burgers and beer!

Fun Fact: My dog, Buster, (pitbull mix) accompanies me on about 80% of my runs!

Favorite Anderson Race: Securian Winter Half! Anything Anderson puts on is fun, organized and safe!

Follow Me: @henning_adventures on Instagram

Lynda

Friends call me Georgee

Why I Run: Started running on a dare but now I run for a purpose, a passion. I am a St. Jude Hero Ambassador and each step is for kids fighting life threatening illnesses. I may not be the fastest out there, but I still finish upright. I feel blessed to inspire and promote others to take that step to be healthier and maybe do it for a purpose and a cause.

Favorite Running Group: 2 Team RWB Twin Cities and St. Jude Heroes

Personal Mantra: “embrace my race”

Favorite Anderson Race: Maple Grove half & Mankato Half

Follow Me: @tdshappyfaces on Instagram

Jess

Why I Run: I run in honor of my dad, who ran his first half marathon and then had an aortic dissection, which means he can no longer run long distances. I love the freedom of running and find it to be meditative.

2021 Goal: Run my first full marathon

Favorite Distance: Half Marathon Road/ 5k Trails

Personal Mantra: "one mile at a time"

Favorite Anderson Race: Brookings Half Marathon and Leading Ladies

Follow Me: @jessmarieia on Instagram

Christina

Why I Run: I run to keep my depression and anxiety at bay. I also just love the feeling of accomplishment after a good run.

2021 Goal: To run a marathon. I’d love to get a PR!

Personal Mantra: “pain is temporary; finishing is forever”

Fun fact: I am fluent in American Sign Language.

Favorite Anderson Race: Chocoholic Frolic but can’t wait to do Leading Ladies!

Follow Me: @ccariveau224 on Instagram