🏃🏾♀️ Running and Running A Marathon Are Two Different Things
More Than Just A Runner
This article was originally published in the Melanin MVP newsletter on February 7th. We syndicate the Melanin MVP Newsletter and podcast which is written by Angela Hollowell.
Angela created Melanin MVP as the ultimate destination for women of color athlete news stories.
Meet Tanya Sam, a runner and author based in Atlanta, Georgia. In this article, she’s sharing insights into her running journey, the challenges faced along the way, and what’s kept her motivated to show up every day (and pursue her first marathon!). In her own words, Tanya reflects on the miles that have shaped her, the lessons learned from early morning runs, and why representation in running matters more than ever. Let’s dive in!
What sparked your running journey?
Tanya: I grew up running cross country in school in Toronto, Canada. It just stuck, whether I was training in school with my team or solo running in off seasons, I always found myself grabbing my walkman (haha, I am that old) and always going for a run. Winter or summer, I enjoyed running.
What did your first few weeks look like? Any “I can’t believe I did that” moments?
Tanya: They were fun, and I was amazed by how much I had to learn for preparing for a marathon vs a 10K or half.
Can you share a big challenge you faced and how you handled it?
Tanya: Rehabbing a runner injury and how you have to approach it with as much discipline and attention as you would a marathon training block
What’s a proud win or milestone that still gives you goosebumps?
Tanya: Completing the NY Marathon 2025. I went into it with an Achilles’ strain, which really affected my mindset. Its one think to tackle a marathon but adding the layer of physical injury on to it was something I did not factor in… would my achillies actually break? Fear plagued my mind.
Competing was everything, and it was the best day ever.
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What surprised you most about yourself through running?
Tanya: That even tho I considered myself a “runner” training for a marathon is whole different galaxy.
Do you have any community shout-outs?
Tanya: Running (like my other passion, reading) is not a solo sport. My love for it has become so much deeper and more meaningful because of the running community, run clubs, and all the friends I have made while running. The camaraderie, the support, the laughs, and lows. Atlanta track club, Atlanta Run club. My trainers, coaches, and PTs have made me so much better.
What’s your favorite place to run and why?
Tanya: The Atlanta Beltline. Early mornings before all the people get out to enjoy it, its just runners putting in work. That head nod of I see you, week after week, putting in miles and strides. I love it.
Share some gear you love or hacks under $50.
Tanya: Maybe a good sock or some gels LOL
Favorite race or running event you’ve participated in?
Tanya: NYC Marathon. Peachtree Road Race bc it gives marathon vibes for a 10K race. a million Spectators the entire way and 60K runners
While running – Music, podcast, or silence?
Tanya: Music. Reggae and Soca: Kes, Buju.
What do you wish you knew when you started running?
Tanya: Get a coach and find a run club.
You heard her!
