Linda Miles

Linda Miles is now retired after spending 38 years with the Department of Justice. She began running three years ago and also enjoys quilting.

Age: 64. Occupation: Retired for 3 ½ years after working for the Dept. Of Justice for 38 years. Home: Blacketts Lake.

When (Doucette) did convinced you start me running? to take My the daughter Learn to Run Laura program 3 years ago. I’ll be forever grateful. What is something else you like to do in your spare time: I quilt with a wonderful group of ladies at Mira Stitchin’ Post. Which race are you doing at Cape Breton Fiddlers Marathon in September? Half marathon.

Longest run (by distance or time) you have ever done? I ran my first full marathon in Fredericton this past May. What do you like to eat or drink after you run: Nothing specific after shorter runs. When running with a group there’s usually the reward of going out for breakfast after.

Do you call yourself a runner? Why or why not? Definitely. I prefer running to walking for exercise. What are your goals in running? I would love to qualify for and run the Boston Marathon.

How has running changed you? Running has changed me in so many ways. It’s definitely made my body stronger, which is imperative at my age. I’m getting more resilient mentally wherein I know I can persevere when things start to feel uncomfortable.

Why do you like to run? I really enjoy the running community. I’m surrounded by people with a common interest, but also who think positively and want the best for each other. That’s not always the case in other aspects of life. Favourite place to run? I like Westmount, which is also part of the Fiddlers half and full marathon route. My favorite race is Louisbourg Race Through Time in August. What is the best advice you’ve received to date about running? Join the local running group, CB Road Runners. The encouragement and knowledge received from the other runners has been invaluable. Plus, running the races and fun runs keeps running interesting for me. Finish this sentence: I run because it’s one thing in life where effort equals reward. I would never have imagined during Learn to

Run that I would have been capable of running a full marathon 3 years later.