Danielle Williams
Q: How many Indy Minis have you ran?
A: Three (2013, 2014, 2016). I had to skip 2015 to have an ablation procedure to fix my heart’s tachycardia problem.
Q: Who or what inspires you to run?
A: So many people! My teenager is a beast! She works and trains so hard and I see all of her hard work pay off so it definitely makes me want to work a little harder. My husband, who I’ll probably never catch, but it’s a nice goal. I also get really motivated watching random strangers run. Watching people finish a half or a full marathon, I tend to pick out people of similar builds or with similar features and think, “Why am I not running that fast? Or that far?” Then new goals are set for myself!
Q: What is your favorite Mini memory or experience?
A: My first Mini was amazing! I had never run more than a 5K, which I actually walked a good portion of! I did some research on training and decided I might need way more time than suggested. I started training in September or October. My husband thought this was a crazy idea but decided he would run it, too. Neither of us knew much about the Mini. We had no idea that there would be a bazillion spectators lining the course and cheering for us. We had no idea that tons of kids would want to high five us. And the bands, and square dancers, cheer squads, amazing volunteers…..it’s a 13 mile-long party with thousands of friends! I was in awe!
Q: What advice would you give to someone running the Mini for their first time?
A: High five all the kids! Take in all the sights! Kiss the bricks! Take some pictures! Thank the cops and medics on the course! Enjoy the whole experience. Worry about covering the distance but don’t get too caught up in the time. And the most important thing; don’t try to run while drinking from water station cups. Choking while running is not fun! Walk!
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