Meet Tory Wight
I’m Tory Wight, a 48-year-old avid runner who loves the outdoors and likes to be creative during down times. I have always loved to run but I became more serious in 2012 when I raced a zombie-themed 5K. Boston will be my sixth marathon. I am grateful to have the opportunity to take on the historic Boston Marathon. I am running for those who cannot run and those whose health issues are an everyday challenge.
How did you meet Thomas Cantara?
I was introduced to Thomas by a relative of mine, knowing how I’m such an avid runner. We friended each other on Facebook and then met for a run together. His background in getting into running is an inspiration. I get the sense of how much he not only enjoys the sport but also how much confidence it has given him – which is why I believe Special Olympics is such a great cause. These athletes can achieve whatever they set their goals to in sports when they gain confidence.
What advice you would give to Special Olympics athletes who are taking on the TRY-ATHLETE challenge this summer?
Know that you can achieve a goal when you put your mind to it, listen to your body so as to avoid injury, but most importantly have fun!
How do you stay motivated on a tough run, when you are facing injury, or when you’d rather just sleep in?
When it comes to how to stay motivated on a tough run or when I don’t feel up to it I promise myself a reward after the workout. For example, if the weather is very cold and I have to do 12 miles or so I think about a nice hot shower and a good movie to watch. Or in hot weather I stop at an ice cream shop for a watermelon sherbert. I know that once I complete the workout I feel accomplished!
Favorite or must-have running gear or recovery equipment?
My favorite running gear is my Garmin watch. I love how it can map out where I am running and how fast I was running. I actually keep a training log with pace/speed and distance information. Before these were available I had always been curious about what my top speed in a sprint was. Now I can see how my sprints average between 13 and 17 mph!
After Boston, any other races on your calendar?
After Boston I have many other races including the Newcastle 10k the weekend after. I just started the 50 States half marathon challenge last year with California, Massachusetts and New Hampshire. This year I started with Arizona in February, then Vermont in July, Maine in September, Rhode Island and Michigan in October.