Early each year we offer a few creative ways for folks on our race waitlist to try to earn a spot on our race start list, including trying to convince us why they deserve a spot by answering three questions that share their “My VT100” story!
This year, we received nearly a thirty amazing stories that touched our hearts and the VT100 race committee awarded two (2) winners.
This is Therese Howe’s story. Therese has given us permission to publish her replies to our questions and we hope you enjoy reading about her journey to the start line as much as we did.
What is your WHY? Share your story of why you should have the opportunity to run this year’s VT100.
Therese Howe and her father at a birthday celebration.
Running allows me to have the opportunity to transcend what I’m going through. I used to do road marathons, did my first when I was 16 as a way to cope with a major loss, and overtime marathons lost their appeal for me. I didn’t feel the need to get another medal or a faster time, and as a student and then young social worker, it was hard to find the extra cash for races. I’m now again looking to races as a way to help me carry grief and experience some respite from current life events.
My dad, who has been disabled my whole life, was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia in January of 2023 and as of a few months ago he’s out of treatment options and at the end of his life. I’m his sole caregiver, as my two sisters want nothing to do with him. Running has helped me increase my distress tolerance and in tough moments I’m able to keep pushing through. I’m looking for trail races that will allow me to be in new, beautiful places and feel free and connected with nature and other runners. Vermont 100k looks exceptionally beautiful and the timing of the event works well with my caregiving situation and I love the greater cause of the race.
What makes you YOU? What are the things that make you unique and special, or that we should know about you?
I wouldn’t say I’m necessarily unique (haha) but I’d say I’m fairly resilient and gritty, and most importantly, caring and compassionate.
Anything else you want to add … We’re all ears!
I’ve been told by people in my running group that I run an exceptional amount (100-130 miles a week). [For the record, us here at VT100 agree that Therese runs an exceptional amount!]
We can’t wait to see Therese at this year’s Vermont 100!
