Runner Spotlight Couple - Kellie & Mike Baker

Q. How did you meet?

We met through a mutual friend while we were in high school. They both worked at the Gallivan ice rink. We were friends for about 5 years before everything went well and we were able to make everything click.
Q. Who got into running first?

I got into running first. Mike is still trying to enjoy it. He has now realized that the Ragnar is not too far off and really needs to get going.
Q. What are your occupations?

I am a stay at home with our three wonderful children. Mike has several occupations: he works as a clinic director for Midtown Community Health Center (which helps the un-and under-insured in Davis and Weber counties); he is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker; and he is an instructor for several online classes through University of Phoenix. Yes, he is a very busy guy.

Q. Where are each of you from, tell us more about you?
I grew up in Bountiful, after high school I moved to California and St. George for a couple of months each, but this is where I’ve spent most of my time. Mike grew up in Salt Lake. He was in Washington State for his mission and then once we were married I got him to migrate out here with me. Now he loves it and wants everyone else out here so we never have to go to Salt Lake again.
Q. What is your current weekly milage?

We don’t have a high weekly mileage, but it is increasing each week. I am at 12-16. Mike just ran his first 8 miles on Saturday, but runs about 6 during the week.
Q. When is your next race? What other races are you planning for 2009?

I am training for the Provo city half marathon in April. I have several triathlon’s planned also. Mike and I are both running Ragnar with a group from his work. He also is doing some triathlons throughout the season.
Q. What are some of your favorite products/gear?

We both just picked up a Garmin 305. Wow, those help so much to keep you on track. We think they’re great.
Q. Why do you run?

We run because it is good exercise and is a great accomplishment to hit your goals.
Q. Tell us more about your family?

We have a wonderful family two boys and one girl. Jacob is 6 (nearly 7) and in first grade; Cameron is 3 and Samantha is 1. They keep me hopping all day long.
Q. What is the best advice you can give to others about running?

We are truly at the beginning of all of this, but wouldn’t trade it for the world. We just have to remember to keep going each week, day, etc. We have so much going on in our life that it is sometimes hard to find the time to exercise and do everything else (and spend time with one another), but it is worth it when we plan well and it works out. We certainly receive a lot of benefits from it - we definitely are better parents with a lot more energy.