July Athlete Spotlight - Stacey Gangloff

Happy Independence Day! To start the day off, I want to send out our July Athlete Spotlight (Military Appreciation Edition), Stacey Gangloff. Stacey is active duty Navy and stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. She is an ultra-runner, trail runner, mother runner, and all around rockstar. Stacey found GRIT Endurance through the Yeti Trail Runners Facebook Group. She is currently training for her first 100 mile race, the Virginia Yeti 100 in September. Stacey competed in the Night Train 50K last weekend as a training race.

Tell us a little bit about yourself?

I am married with an 8 year old daughter. I’ve been in the Navy for the last 13 years. And running for 8 years.

How did you get started on your running journey?

I started running after I had my daughter, Someone at work convinced me to run just one mile which I couldn’t even do. So after I got the feel for running I signed up for local 5k’s then the Shamrock 1/2 marathon. During 2020 I found out about ultra marathons and signed up for my first one which I finished but was really hard but when I got done I was hooked on ultras. I’ve done 4 so far.

What keeps you motivated?

My Family.

Do you have a mantra or quote that you use when things get tough?

Just Keep Running!

If you could give any advice to another athlete, what would it be?

Don’t compare yourself to anyone.

What is your favorite workout so far in your training program?

I enjoy the long runs, because I’ve never run so far on my own with no race involved.

On a side note, we are currently looking for pacers for Stacey for her 100 mile race. If you have never volunteered as a pacer it is such an amazing experience to be a part of. Watching someone complete something as hard as a 100 miler, with all the highs and lows is inspiring. If you are interested in coming down to Virginia to help with her race, reach out and I will get you connected!