I always dreamed of being a runner, but never thought it would be possible. In 2018, I applied for the Go the Distance program on a whim. When I was selected, I had my doubts about whether or not I would be able to run a full Boilermaker, never having successfully run so much as a 5K. I showed up to my first training run sure that I wouldn’t make it through my first mile. I quickly discovered though that running was a true passion; I fell in love with the sport, with the way it made me feel physically, mentally, and emotionally. Guided by the support of the Mohawk Valley Hill Striders and especially Coach Joe, I completed the 2018 Boilermaker. However, I quickly discovered that a 15K wasn’t enough. I went on to run six marathons in a six-month period. After breaking my ankle just two weeks before the 2019 Boilermaker, I spent months in physical therapy to make my running comeback. Though I’m still on the road to recovery, at least I’m still hitting the road! I look forward to running my first marathon in the fall of 2020!.
Jennifer Stein - Vice President
Kaitlyn Barlow - Secretary
I joined the Mohawk Valley Hillstriders in 2023 after I was a member of the GTD team. Since then, I have been supported and encouraged by this great group to compete in short and long distance races, from 1 milers and 5ks to half and full marathons, and even triathlons. Being a member of the board gives me the opportunity to give back to the community that guided me through my first boilermaker and beyond, helping me fall in love with the sport of running. I am proud to be a member and serve this community.
I became introduced to the Mohawk Valley Hill Striders through my wife, Gretchen, who was running with this group. I am not a runner, and have no desire to run!! I needed to find some method of exercise, so I started riding my bike with this group. I quickly realized that this was a great opportunity to help keep my physically motivated and to assist in the safety patrol of our runners. Through the years, with this great collection of people, I have been involved with multiple local races, and the WKTV Go The Distance program providing bike patrol.
Gretchen Kubera - Board Member
Jessica Sklarz - Board Member
Chelsea Arcuri - Board Member
I have been running for many years. I joined the Mohawk valley Hill Striders as I wanted to run a half marathon in the spring of 2016. This group ran as a group regularly and throughout the year. I didn't think I liked winter running until I started running in the winter with this group! I've met so many great people in the hill striders. My running family means the world to me. If you're running, walking, biking, and even struggling, I'm rooting for you!
