Ambassador Spotlight! Meet Lynne Liao, a Madison Marathon ambassador and a seasoned runner who has participated every year since 2016. Lynne shares her love for running, her favorite things about the Madison Marathon, and what it means to be an ambassador.
When did you start running?
Senior year of college, my best friend, Bianca (long-time runner), convinced me to go running with her even though I historically hated running. 😆 We had a great time, and I ran regularly for the rest of the school year! When I moved to Madison a year later, I started my foray into distance running, which then snowballed into my current love of endurance sports.
Why do you run?
Running is a form of therapy for me. It’s time to be alone with yourself, and there is something beautiful about seeing how far your own two legs can carry you. I remember the first time I ran 10 miles…I thought to myself, WOW, I can literally carry myself 10 miles with just my two legs, feet, and a pair of shoes. There’s nothing like going zen on a long run!
What do you love about the Madison Marathon?
The MM is such an iconic race – I love how it takes you through the heart of Madison, has enough hills to keep you engaged, and the spirit of the local community cannot be beat! No matter the distance, and whether you’re walking, jogging, or busting out a PR, it’s always guaranteed to be a good time.
What does it mean to be an ambassador?
To me, being an ambassador means being a good steward of the sport and encouraging others, especially those who are uncertain or insecure about their own running journey, to give it a try. Positivity is so important in all areas of life, and when it comes to athletics it can be intimidating to see the speediest or folks who grew up racing competitively smoke the middle or back of the packers; this can lead to a sense of imposter syndrome or inadequacy. Many people are simply afraid to start because the beginning is often the most challenging in many ways…the unknown, shame about having to start short and slow, having to walk parts of a short run, etc. None of these things are things to be embarrassed about, by the way. Anyone who’s spent a substantial amount of time in the sport has been there! But the truth is, no matter who you are, you’re on your own journey. I didn’t grow up running or doing too many sports seriously – discovering sports in adulthood also comes with a different perspective on why we do what we do. So, to be a good ambassador, you need not be the best, fastest, coolest, or flashiest…but rather, share your genuine love of the sport with those who can use that extra positivity and encouragement, and you may just change someone’s life. Because it all starts with ONE race, next thing you know…you might be the next Madison Marathon ambassador! 🙂
How many times have you run MM?
I haven’t missed a year since 2016. I’ve always done the half marathon distance, except for one year (5k due to injury); I am looking forward to running my first full marathon this year at MM 2024!
What’s your favorite cross-training activity?
Anything that gets the body moving! Hiking, swimming, cycling, yoga, taking a stroll…if you move, it’s cross-training! Climbing is one of my favorites because it is strength-focused, and I personally struggle with doing strength training consistently on its own (sports are fun, gyms are boring!).
What advice do you have for first-time marathon runners?
You and me, we’re on parallel roads right now! Enjoy the process, and no matter what, have fun! Set a goal and get after it. One of my favorite quotes from my coach is “If you move your body, you are an athlete.” If you cross that finish line — you are a marathoner, half marathoner, 10k-er. Train hard, be safe, and get out there and have a rocking time! I’ll be representing the middle-back of the packers in November; make sure to encourage those around you! Sometimes a little cheer from a stranger is what gets you through the toughest part of a race.
Any encouraging words?
Considering doing the Madison Marathon 2024? DO IT! Even better – grab a friend, or a few, and make a plan together (lots of free training plans online)! You are a runner, a racer, and an athlete. You can do it. I was asked recently, what is the best way to start? Honestly, the best way to start is to… simply get started. Don’t overthink it – get out there and make it happen, folks!
If you are interested in becoming a Madison Marathon ambassador visit our website to apply. See you at the starting line!