Starting from Scratch

Running their courses: Whether you’re new to running or pushing your boundaries even farther, here are some local runners, EMILY LYONS, CARESS CLEGG, and ANDERSON DIBBLE, sharing their advice for how and where to get moving.

CARESS CLEGG and her eight-year-old daughter, RORY, are tackling their first race ever. The mother-and-daughter team decided to run in this month’s WILMA Dash 5K. Caress Clegg shares why she started and how she’s been training for her first 5K.

When and why did you start running? “I don’t know that I’d say I’ve ‘started running’ in the traditional sense. I’m definitely more of a walker. After surviving a heart attack in 2020, daily walks became a prescribed part of my recovery, and they’ve since become a cherished routine I share with my daughter, Rory, but if I’m being honest, they have always been short.

As she’s gotten older – and faster – our walks have evolved. She challenges me to ‘race’ and insists we incorporate running. And honestly, saying no to her has never been my strong suit.

Wilmington is full of amazing races, and I’ve always told myself, ‘Next year, I’ll do one.’ When this year’s WILMA Dash was announced, I decided that ‘next year’ had finally arrived. This is the first 5K for both Rory and me, and I’m doing it so I can keep up with her – for now at least, until she outpaces me again.”

Running playlist: “When I’m with Rory, I don’t wear earbuds – she is my playlist. If you’ve ever met her, you know she can hold a conversation with a brick wall. She sings, jokes, recaps her school day, and talks the entire 3.3 miles without missing a beat.

But on solo walks, I’ve recently been into the Meghan Sussex podcast Confessions of a Female Founder. It’s empowering and reflective – perfect for quiet moments on the trail.”

Local running spots: “Hanover Pines Nature Park above Monkey Junction is my absolute favorite. It’s still a bit of a hidden gem, and the mix of sun-drenched and shaded trails offers the perfect escape from the busyness of our small city.”

Advice that’s helped you for others wanting to start running? “Take it one day at a time and listen to your body. You don’t have to race anyone – this is your journey. Whether you finish first or dead last, you’re still ahead of everyone who stayed on the couch.”

Upcoming 5K races to check out:

North Carolina Blueberry Festival, June 21, Burgaw

Battle for Independence Run, July 4, The Point at Barclay

Old Baldy Run for the Light, August 8, Bald Head Island

To view more of photographer Daria Amato’s work, go to dariaphoto.com

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