Name: Becky Riley
Age: 51
Miles Run Per Week: My mileage varies; it depends on whether I’m training for a race or not. Usually 25-45. I also crosstrain a lot.
Hometown: I was born and raised in Missoula, MT.
Currently Training For: I am maintaining my base mileage and fitness level so I can be ready for whatever adventure or race appeals to me.
Favorite Race or Run: That’s a tough question…As far as scenic overkill, challenging terrain, and camaraderie, the Big Horn trail runs are some of my favorite races. However, the two times I’ve paced the MM have been one of my most rewarding experiences with the hometown people. It was actually more fun than running it hard for myself!
Age You Started Running: I began running at age 14 training for basketball, then continued training to maintain my fitness level. My first race was a 5K called the Sept. Sprint put on by the Missoula Athletic Club.
What Was it Like to be the Only Female on the Run Through the Bob Marshall? I just wanted to be one of the runners and not slow anyone down. At the end of the run, Andy Tucknott asked how I liked running with this “motley” crew. I replied I would not have it any other way. With that said, I wish there were other women running with us. I enjoyed meeting runners I had not known, talking to old friends on the run, and sharing the experience. It bonds us.
Words of Wisdom: Don’t be afraid to try a new adventure to test your abilities and don’t take it for granted. Be thankful for where we live and surround yourself with those people that share the same passions.
Anything Else You’d Like to Add: I’m thankful for parents that chose to live in Montana and expose me to the love of the outdoors and the appreciation of nature. And of course I am extremely thankful for our outstanding running community as exemplified by the group of runners that had anything to do with RATBOB (run across the Bob Marshall)! Lastly, at age twenty-six, I was told by a doctor that I would never be a marathoner due to a heart condition. I continued to run and years later a different doctor told me I was misdiagnosed, my heart is fine. I think of all I would have missed had I quit running. If you allow yourself to believe, your body is capable of amazing things. Keep on running Missoula!
