Jennifer Polniak

Age: 34 PERSONAL RECORDS: I'm not a good statistician, but: 5k: 21:00 10k: 42:00 marathon 3:48 (I barely missed Boston!!) Weekly mileage: currently 20 (while pregnant), usually about 35

When Did You Start Running? When I was about 14 (with my father) I ran cross country in high school.

Who Is Your Running Role Model? Who Has Influenced You Most In Running? Joan Benoit Samuelson has always been a model for me. Especially now as she runs with a family.

Did You Run in College or High School? List Events, Awards, Honors: I ran in high school. Our team placed 3rd in state. In the last couple of years I’ve done well in my age group - 1st or 2nd place in many local races.

What Is Your Favorite Workout? I hate speedwork, but during long runs I will incorporate fartlek-type running. I especially like to do this on the MKT trail.

What is Your Favorite Training Route in Columbia? I recently moved, so I’m learning new routes. I currently like Green Meadows to Reactor Field (back road) to MKT trail (Providence entrance) to Forum back down Stadium to Providence to Reactor Field to Green Meadows. For a long run I like to run down Old Plank Road and long the Katy Trail, especially in the fall.

Personal Info and Interests: I am married with one child, Megan (almost 3). I am currently pregnant. I’ve been in CTC for 4-5 years. I also enjoy biking, hiking, and skiing. I would like to do a triathlon when the kids are older, and I have more time to train.