Gracie Barney, Assistant Coach

No Boundaries 0-5K Fleet Feet Running Club Syracuse

What Gracie is currently running in:
Reflective Jacket/Windbreaker: Brooks Carbonite Jacket
Run Bra: Brooks Run Bra
Bottoms: Brooks Greenlight Tights
Running Shoes: Brooks Ghost 13
Lucky Charm: Brooks 'Run Happy' Running Hat

Favorite quote?
“It’s supposed to be hard.  If it wasn’t hard, everyone would do it.  The hard is what makes it great.” - Jimmy Dugan “A League of Their Own”

How long have you been running with Fleet Feet?
I’ve been running with Fleet Feet since January 2017. I started coaching with Fleet Feet in the summer of 2017 (i think!)

Can you remember how you got started running?
I started running in 2016 because I wanted to accomplish something. So I decided to sign up for a half marathon with no training (I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS). I had moved to the area in 2015 and was struggling to fit in and make friends. I started running to push myself and to meet new people. When I joined the Fleet Feet Running Club Syracuse Distance Program in 2017, it really did change my life. I found a passion for the sport and met some of my best friends.

Go-to run outfit or favorite piece of gear/apparel?
My favorite running gear is my ‘Run Happy’ Brooks Running hat. It’s my favorite hat and go-to lucky charm for race day!

 Why do you continue to run?
I continue to run because it brings me so much joy. Joy from the mental clarity it brings when you are running for long stretches. Joy from the miles I get to share with close friends and running buddies. Joy from the sense of accomplishment I feel once I complete a run

Tips for a beginner runner or someone just starting?
My number one tip for anyone who just started running or is a beginner is get the proper gear. Ditch your sneakers you bought off the sale rack and get a good pair of proper running shoes - your feet will thank you! Don’t overlook the importance of good socks, sports bras, and running tights!

Favorite local route or areas to run in Central New York?
My favorite local route to run is Green Lakes. It’s a great spot with plenty of routes and hills!

Favorite Race?
This is tough to say what my favorite race is but I’d have to say my favorite race is the Syracuse Half. It feels like the hometown pride event. It’s great to see so many local friends and community members run and cheer!

Favorite running shoe at the moment or all time?
My favorite running shoe of all time is the Brooks Ghost. It’s taken me thousands of miles, a marathon, and an ultra marathon. Brooks Ghost is the true MVP!

Special Talent aside from being awesome?
My special talent is I have costumes/wigs/props for pretty much any occasion!

Do you have any superstitions or particular running routines?
My only running routine is don’t change anything on race day. I try to stick to the same food, clothing, and timing for race day as I trained.

What are you doing when you’re not running or at Fleet Feet Syracuse?
When I’m not running with FF, I’m usually spending time with friends over food and jokes!

Learn more and join Fleet Feet Running Club Syracuse 
No Boundaries 0-5K Running or Walking Training 
Sponsored by Brooks Running.

Meet your Head Coach of No Boundaries, Caitlyn Lawless, clawless@fleetfeetsyracuse.com
(bio coming soon)