Less than 1% of the U.S. population has ever run a marathon (a grueling journey of 26.2 miles), but Brenda Beck has taken that challenge to the next level. With marathons completed in all 50 states (soon to be doubled) she has reached far beyond that milestone. In fact, she once completed 3 marathons in just 4 days! And if that weren’t impressive enough, this year she’s on track to achieve an extraordinary feat, in December she plans to cross the finish line completing her 100th marathon run!
Finding Her Stride
Running a marathon started as just another item on Brenda’s bucket list. Little did she know that one race would change her life. Determined to complete her first marathon, she laced up and hit the pavement. However, the moment she crossed the finish line, she was hooked, or as Brenda likes to say, “I’m Brenda, and I have a running problem!”
Before long a new challenge emerged, to complete a marathon in all 50 states. An ambitious goal that she has not only accomplished once but is on the verge of doing again!
“Running is the best kind of stress relief. The atmosphere is unbeatable, and any worries you have simply disappear as the miles go by. Plus, runners are the best people. Everyone is incredibly supportive of each other.”
Building a Running Community: The 5 Fields Brewing Run Club
As an avid runner and President of the Tri-City Road Runners Club, Brenda understands both the mental and physical benefits of being active and the power of community. She finds joy in helping others set and achieve their running goals, whether it’s completing their first 5K or chasing a marathon PR. Providing support, accountability, and a welcoming space for runners of all levels is her passion.
Wanting to bring that same sense of camaraderie and fitness to Charles City, Brenda launched the 5 Fields Brewing Co. Sunday Morning Run Club, creating a place where runners can connect, challenge themselves, and celebrate the journey together.
“The owners of Indian Fields Tavern, Deb and Patrick, are runners themselves. They had a vision for a weekly run club, and I was thrilled to help make it happen.”
“The most rewarding part of running and starting the club is meeting other runners, meeting like-minded people, and hearing their stories. Everyone has their own experiences. No morning run is ever the same.”
The Power of Running: Most Memorable Moments
With 90 marathons under her belt, Brenda has 20 years of unique running experiences. While every race has its own unforgettable moments, the people, places, and race itself, the two races that stand out the most for Brenda are running across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and the electrifying energy of the New York City Marathon.
“The energy was amazing. The atmosphere, the people . . . it was iconic!”
Brenda’s running journey isn’t a solo effort. She often has a crew of 2-8 friends who run with her (at least for the first 13 miles), cheer her on, or provide encouragement from afar.
The Final Stretch: Training for #100
Brenda’s goal for this year? Crossing the finish line of her 100th marathon! She’s already mapped out her next ten races, with her final run scheduled for the St. Jude Memphis Marathon in Tennessee on December 6th.
“I didn't start running until age 36. so I got a bit of a late start. But if I can hit my 100th marathon this year, I will have managed it within 20 years of running.”
Her future aspirations? Completing a second round of marathons in all 50 states (that’s right - she’s on her second round!) and possibly tackling the epic challenge of running 7 marathons on 7 continents in 7 days!
Overcoming Challenges: Running Through Life’s Ups and Downs
Believe it or not, one of Brenda’s biggest running challenges came from work stress.
“You wouldn’t think work stress could impact running, but it does. My times were slower, and my runs became frustrating. I wasn’t running free.”
When her company started relocating jobs overseas, Brenda was faced with a tough decision, she could relocate or lose her job. She chose to stay in Virginia, and her running game was the better for it.
“After I quit my job, my running game changed for the better. I was more focused, my runs became enjoyable again, and I felt like a huge weight had been lifted. It was a blessing in disguise. You wouldn’t believe how much outside stress can impact your training.”
Lessons from the Road: Tips and Tricks
Even with nearly 100 marathons completed, Brenda cautions that every runner, no matter how experienced, can make rookie mistakes.
Here are her top tips:
Stay consistent with training.
Plan your nutrition ahead of time.
Set out your race gear the night before (& before you pack!).
Set a steady pace and don’t start out too fast!
“Remember that life isn’t perfect. You need to go with what you have, meet yourself where you’re at.”
If you’re wondering about Brenda’s training, now that she has a little more free time, her regimen includes running 5-6 days per week, strength training 3-4 times a week, and cross-training 3-4 times a week. She’s quick to share, “While most of your runs are goal-focused, it’s also important to include a few fun runs.”
Favorite section to run: Virginia Capital Trail
Brenda’s favorite section of the Capital Trail? It shouldn’t come as any surprise that her favorite stretch is the one near 5 Fields Brewing & Indian Fields Tavern in Charles City.
“I love the diverse landspaces, one minute you are running through wooded areas and then all at once the space opens. It’s a beautiful place to run.”
Dream Running Partner: A World Record Holder
If Brenda could run with anyone, past or present, she’d choose I-Fit trainer and triathlete Ashley Paulson.
“Ashley set a course record in Antarctica during the Great World Race: 7 marathons, 7 continents, 7 days. She’s upbeat and fun no matter the pace, an incredible athlete and inspiration! I would love to run alongside her!”
The Road Ahead
With marathon #100 just around the corner, Brenda’s journey is proof that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. She didn’t start running until age 36, but with persistence, she’s achieved milestones many only dream of. Her inspirational story shows that with dedication and community, anything is possible!
Thank you, Brenda, for letting us share your incredibly inspirational story of determination, community, and passion! We can’t wait for you to crush your 100th Marathon Run! If you want to meet this unstoppable runner, you know where she’ll be on Sunday, hitting the pavement with the 5 Fields Brewing Run Club. Lace-up your shoes and join them for a run!
5 Fields Brewing Co Sunday Morning Club FB Page
Tri-City Road Runners Club
Virginia Capital Trail Faces of the Trail
#FacesoftheTrail
