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Danette Rogers
Where are you from? What brought you to Missoula?
I grew up in Southern California and eventually moved to Austin where I completed my doctoral degree in exercise physiology at the University of Texas. My husband, Dennis and I decided to stay in Austin to raise our family. We had always wanted to live in the mountains and decided to move to Missoula as soon as he retired from his job as a geologist with the state. We have been here for a little more than three and a half years and absolutely love it.
When did you start working with the Galloway Program? How did you become involved with the program?
I took the first Get In Shape class offered through RWM in 2017 to run the Diva Day 5k and just kept going!
Why did you step up to lead the Galloway Program?
I love being a part of the Galloway community and it just seemed like the next logical step. I wanted to give back to the group and to help others get started in the program.
What’s something the Galloway Training Program has taught you over the years?
I think one of the best things about being a part of the Galloway program is the realization that there is a level of participation for everyone. No matter what your age or fitness level, or even if you are coming back from an injury, there is always a group you can be a part of. I have faced a number of health issues over the years and never imagined I could be this active again. Finding a group that gave me the skills and confidence to set goals and accomplish them without pain and injury has been amazing.
You’re busy leading the Galloway Program this year, but what’s next on your own running calendar?
My husband and I are going to lead a hike, run, hike trail class through RWM that I am really excited about. I also have quite a few half marathons coming up including the Sweathouse, the Grand Tetons, Yellowstone, and of course the Missoula Half.
What is your favorite thing about Missoula?
The mountains and the community!
What is your favorite running memory?
I just got back from a trip to Disney World where I ran the Disney Princes Half Marathon with my daughter and some friends and running through the castle was one of the coolest things ever!
What do you enjoy most about the running/walking community?
The welcoming and supportive atmosphere.
Finish this sentence: When I’m not running, I’m…
working as the patient coordinator at Alpine Foot and Ankle Clinic, quilting, art journaling, and enjoying our beautiful mountains and great community.
Teresa Nichols
Where are you from? What brought you to Missoula?
I’m a Montana native, and my family moved here from Whitehall when I was in 2 nd grade. When my husband was in the Navy, we lived in San Diego and Bremerton, then moved home to Missoula. We bought our 1 st house in Alberton, then moved back to Missoula after 8 years there. Have been here in the same house since 1991!
When did you start working with the Galloway Program? How did you become involved with the program?
I started with the Galloway program in 2012, the 2 nd year of the program. I was hooked! I volunteered as a Pace Group Leader the next year to help others meet their goals. I’ll always be part of the program in one way or another!
Why did you step up to lead the Galloway Program?
I joined my dear friend Pam Gardiner as Co-Director for the 2019 class. After Pam retired last year, Danette Rogers joined me as Co-Director this year. I wanted to give back to the organization that helped me run multiple half marathons – and 1 full marathon – over the years!
What’s something the Galloway Training Program has taught you over the years?
When Jeff Galloway spoke at the DoubleTree in January 2012, he explained his approach to training for distance races by using the run-walk-run method. His emphasis on injury prevention and recovering during training with the walk breaks really resonated with me. Before joining Galloway, I was a big walker, but after listening to Jeff, I thought “I could fit some running into my walking!” One of the useful tips I’ve learned is to hydrate the few days before a long run, then limit fluids the night before and the morning of the run. That really minimizes port-a-potty stops!
You’re busy leading the Galloway Program this year, but what’s next on your own running calendar?
Next up is Run for the Luck of It! That’s always fun!
What is your favorite thing about Missoula?
Missoula is a very special place that attracts such diverse visitors and residents. I’m blessed to live in such a friendly and welcoming city.
What is your favorite running memory?
Training for the 2016 full marathon with Pam Gardiner, Vicki Morgan, Michelle Weaver-Knowles, and Joel Bischof. We became such close friends that year…the long runs gave us lots of time to get to know each other!
What do you enjoy most about the running/walking community?
I love that the running/walking community is such a big part of Missoula! Even non-runners volunteer for the races and others cheer on participants, which makes Missoula so special.
Finish this sentence: When I’m not running, I’m…
Enjoying Montana outdoors – camping, fishing, hiking, and golfing.