Why I run the Peachtree: Katey Carlson

Katey Carlson

Quote: "Don't tell my husband, but my goal is to beat him!"

Age: 26.

Occupation: Part-time fitness instructor.

Residence: Claremont, Calif.

Q: Number of Peachtrees?

A: I've never run the Peachtree. A little over four years ago, I married a wonderful man from Atlanta. He and his family have fond memories of training for and running the Peachtree. Each year we have tried to work our schedules so we can travel from California to come run the Peachtree. This is the first year when our schedules will actually work out.

Q: Why do you run?

A: I started running years ago to get into shape and be healthy. But I'm not going to lie: I hated running. The change came when I had my baby. I started running with other people in my community and quickly found a love for running. Recently I've run my first half-marathon and I can't wait to run another one. I started running for health reasons. I keep running because I love it!

Q: Do you run alone or in a pack?

A: For training, with people; races, alone.

Q: What do you like about the race?

A: It inspires thousands of people to get off their rump on a holiday morning and be active!

Q: How many races do you compete in?

A: At least five. I wish I could do more but I am very selective about the races that I participate in.

Q: Since you've never run the Peachtree before, what are you looking forward to most?

A: The experience. I really enjoy the Fourth of July and being active, so I really like the whole tradition behind it. It's just really something I'm looking forward to.

Q: Who will be running?

A: Me, my husband, my father-in-law and sister-in-law. My mother-in-law graciously bowed out so she could watch her daughter.

Q: Any plans before or after the race?

A: We will probably watch some fireworks afterward. The day before we are having a pig roast at my in-laws and have a fun little barbecue. I don't know how it will settle my stomach for race day, but whatever works.

Q: What's your best time in a 10k?