We think THE best part about Sparkle Athletic is the AHH-MAZING people that make up #teamsparkle. We are so incredibly lucky to “meet” (IRL and virtually) so many team members, but we thought it’s about time we introduced the people that make up this inspiring & motivating community.
With that being said, it’s time to meet a member of #teamsparkle. Up next – @ivieanne!
Tell us about your past race/running experience:
Ivie: I started running in 2012 because I wanted to lose weight. I was not very active and never enjoyed running, so naturally it seemed like the logical thing to do, right?
After running the Disneyland 5k with my fiancé, AJ, I decided I needed more Disney races because I loved the magic. I immediately joined a running group, Long Beach Galloway, and registered for the Tinker Bell Half Marathon. The race was so amazing and I was falling in love with the running community. After I crossed the finish line I had such a HUGE sense of accomplishment. But once the weekend was over I felt lost, what was I going to do now? So I decided to register for my first marathon. Hey, I go ALL IN. I’m still in love with running, sometimes with the training, and always love the community. I’m pretty sure it’s the people that keep me around way more than the miles and free bananas.
We are so glad you are a part of #teamsparkle. When did you first join and what color was your first skirt?
I: I purchased my first spakle skirt at the Tinker Bell expo, with fairy poms for my shoes. Gunmetal was my first color because I loved how sparkly it looked. I didn’t really know that I was joining #teamsparkle. I was so “Ëœnew’ I really didn’t know what was going on, I just wanted to be pretty and sparkly. I wore that same skirt for my first few races. And now, the rest is history. I have more skirts than I know what to do with.
What/Who inspires you to continue running?
I: My running has definitely evolved since I started. Now, I don’t run with the sole purpose of losing weight, or accomplishing a distance goal. I run first for myself. It has helped me maintain my weight loss and has helped my mental health. Running keeps my mind clear and helps my patience. This is why the “ËœRunning is my Happy Hour’ shirt is my favorite, because it’s so fitting for why I run.
We all know how much #teamsparkle loves their treats as much as they love running… What’s your favorite indulgence?
I: Well, as a professional foodie I do love my share of treats. Now I just have learned how to have them in moderation or share (which is sometimes hard). After Disney races I’m a sucker for a warm churro or a sugar cookie. But in general I do love my ice cream.
Which Sparkle Athletic product is your favorite “go to”?
I: Definitely the visors. I ALWAYS have to have one. I love Headsweats so anytime I’m doing any type of activity, I throw a visor on. The colors are fabulous so there is something to go with any outfit or print.
What is one of your favorite parts of racing in a Sparkle Athletic skirt?
I: I love having FUN! Sometimes it’s easy to take race morning SO seriously. But when you add a bit of color, brightness or sparkle, it helps make you smile. I also love all the compliments I get from little kids along the course, especially at a non-Disney race. They help bring smiles to myself and others, and that’s the best part!
Thank YOU so very much for “joining the team.” Individually each & everyone of you is amazing, but as a “team” we ROCK.
Everyone has a story, and we want to hear YOURS! The #TeamSparkle community is such a loving and inclusive group, but often times we are tackling our runs solo. Knowing your teammates can help you to feel more a part of the running community.
If you would like to share your story, whether it is about how you got started running, what motivates your running, why you love running, or how running has changed your life, please let us know! We would love to feature you on an upcoming “Meet The Team“ post – so email us at meettheteam@sparkleathletic.com!