Member Spotlight: Jess Lester-Brown
Jess joined Trail Roots in 2018 when she was looking for like-minded people to run lots of miles with. You can find her at the early morning 5:30 am runs and Sunday long road runs, as she juggles family, work, and running. She has been focused on the road marathon for several years and has set some PR’s lately. After giving birth to her first son a few years ago, she came back to training with a new strength. She puts in the work on and off the road and we wanted to ask her a few questions about her journey with running.
What inspired you to start running?
Honestly, I have no idea! When I was trying out to be a beach lifeguard when I was 16, I even failed the run portion of the test! I swam through college and dabbled in triathlons during my off seasons. After college I kept thinking about what was next. I got more involved with triathlons and in turn, running more. I realized I enjoyed running more than I previously thought and have continued with it. I started running marathons mainly because I wanted to beat my husband’s only marathon time. I did that and then have been trying to get faster ever since.
Why did you join Trail Roots?
When my husband and I first moved to Austin in 2018 we decided to do some trail races. We ended up doing a Trail Roots race and learned more about the group. We both joined, he has since renounced running in favor of cycling but I’m still here.
Has your training changed since joining a group?
It’s gotten a lot more enjoyable! I used to do all my runs by myself and would find myself getting over it very quickly. I love just being able to meet and chat with all different people and that has been my favorite thing about joining a group. Plus I find myself pushing even harder trying to keep up!
What do you love about running?
I love that you can do it anywhere. I love that you can explore and see things you wouldn’t necessarily be able to see if you weren’t running. I also love the social aspect of it. I love to run with my friends and family and be able to have that shared experience.
“I used to do all my runs by myself and would find myself getting over it very quickly. I love just being able to meet and chat with all different people and that has been my favorite thing about joining a group. Plus I find myself pushing even harder trying to keep up!”
What do you think is special about the Trail Roots community?
Obviously the community. I’ve met some of my best friends through Trail Roots and every single member is just an awesome human being.
Working full time and being a mom to a toddler, how do you fit in training?
Lots of early mornings! I’m super lucky to have a partner that supports my running so he is understanding of those early mornings. He’s also an athlete in his own right (a phenomenal cyclist) so we switch off on the weekends and I get out there with the running stroller!
How did life change for you after having a baby? How has your running changed?
Oh everything changed. I think there were a few big changes. The first thing that changed both in my life and running is my priorities changed. While I get up and out each morning super early I only do that so I can have undivided time with my son in the evenings. Another thing is I value my time running so much more and I don’t take it for granted. It’s one of the times that I can just take for myself and not feel guilty about it.
What was your favorite marathon experience and why?
While all the marathons that my son has been at have been some of my favorites (4 so far!) Houston stands out as my favorite. It was one of those races where everything just felt good. It was also nice and cool which of course coming from Texas is perfect weather. I really just loved being able to feel good and then see my boy on the course cheering me on.
Do you have any races or goals that you’re working towards?
I’m doing the Boston marathon in a few weeks and then the NY marathon in November. My goal for both of those is to have as much fun as possible. Some people know that Boston has been a curse for me (broken leg, bad gut, horrible weather…) so I am hoping this year to finally just enjoy myself and have a good time.
What advice would you give people who are new to running and want to join a group?
Just do it. It’s intimidating for sure but start small and build as you can. Also, I’ve found that the best people are in run groups so that’s definitely a perk!