Hi, I’m Grace, a certified RRCA Level 1 running coach, longtime athlete, and proud board member of the CT WaveRunners. Over the past 12 years, I’ve run more than 60 races. But if you had told me when I started that I’d be here coaching runners, building a business, and chasing my own goals, I’m not sure I would’ve believed you.

My journey into running wasn’t about chasing medals or breaking personal records. It started with grief. When I was 21, I lost my dad suddenly, and I didn’t handle it well. I numbed the pain with food and alcohol, slipping into habits that left me physically and mentally unhealthy. I didn’t know how to process what I was feeling, and for a long time, I didn’t even try.

It was my sister, Moira, who inspired me to start running. She saw I was struggling and encouraged me to try it. I could barely get through an eighth of a mile without stopping. It was hard, but I kept showing up. Eventually, I ran my first 5K, the Branford Turkey Trot in 2015, and I haven’t looked back since.

Running saved me. At first, I thought I was doing it to lose weight, but the truth is that it was helping me heal. It gave me something to work toward, a way to cope, and eventually, something to love. Now, more than a decade later, I still run for my mental health. I run for strength. I run to grow.

As a coach, I believe running is deeply personal. Your goals are allowed to evolve, and mine certainly have. I started this journey just trying to feel better. Now I’m chasing finish lines, pushing myself with new challenges, and helping other runners do the same.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been racing for years, I’m here to support you. I’ll meet you where you are, create a plan that fits your life, and walk or run with you every step of the way. My goal is to help you train with heart, race with confidence, and most of all, feel proud of the runner you’re becoming.

Let’s run with purpose. Let’s run with grace.