Laney
When I first started training for my very first marathon, I was nervous and uncertain. I had only ever run a half marathon before, and the idea of doubling that distance felt overwhelming. But from day one, Coach Karen made the impossible feel possible.
She created a personalized training program that not only helped me gradually build mileage but also broke down this big goal into manageable, motivating steps. Her encouragement was constant, genuine, and exactly what I needed—she always knew what to say to keep me focused, confident, and uplifted.
Initially, I had a goal of simply finishing under 4 hours, but as she tracked my progress, she saw potential in me that I hadn't yet seen in myself. Coach Karen encouraged me to push for an even faster pace, and thanks to her guidance, I crossed the finish line of my first marathon in 3:45—feeling strong, joyful, and fully prepared.
Beyond being an incredible coach, she's become a dear friend. Her knowledge, passion, and unwavering support made all the difference, and I truly couldn’t have done it without her. Coach Karen is the absolute best!
Emily
Karen was the best person to coach me in my first marathon! My goals were to train smart to avoid injuries and be able to run the race strong enough to have fun. I thought I was just paying Karen to write a 12-week training plan for me, but I got so much more than that from her! Karen connected me to an incredible group of runners who trained together several days a week all under her guidance. She joined me for miles during long runs, answered my MANY first-timer questions and encouraged me endlessly. Karen is a great mix of toughness and grace - pushing me beyond what I thought I was capable of and helping me dust myself off when things didn’t go as planned. I met all my goals and was able to run under a 10 minute pace for all of my first marathon. I thought I would be a one-and-done marathoner, but my race went so well and was so much fun I’ve already signed up for another! I couldn’t do it (and wouldn’t want to) without my dear friend, Coach Karen.
“Update! With Coach Karen’s guidance and wisdom, I was able to run a 33 minute PR at my second marathon, just nine months after my first marathon. It is amazing what is possible with the right coaching!”
Jennie
Do yourself a favor and hire Coach Karen. No need to fuss or fret "Is she right for me? Is it worth it?" It's better to ask "Am I right? Am I worth it?"
I met Karen almost 10 years ago on a casual Saturday organized group run. She asked for what race I was training and when I replied that I'd like to go to Boston she said "I'll help you" We got to work, although it didn't seem like work. Her plan included local races, weekly speed work with others and modifications if needed. Her confidence in me was the most encouraging feeling. I qualified (2015) & ran (2017) Boston. Mission Accomplished.
I wasn't finished though. After many seasons on the trails, I came back to the roads and yet again Karen worked her Boston magic plan and I became the most willing and dedicated runner. At the age of 55, I have qualified (2024) again and will run (2025). Meanwhile, I'm focusing on my short game and will compete in New York's 5 th Avenue Mile!
No matter the distance, I'm trusting Karen. She loves this sport and I love the life it has given me!
Nasera
Karen's coaching leads to success in achieving your performance goals. Karen is a natural running coach with an amazing experience. When I met Karen, she was volunteering her time to help with a summer running camp a couple of years ago. At that time, I started my training for NYC Marathon in 2022. She invited me to join a running group to be more consistent and diversify my training, with track workout, hill repeat and tempo runs. It was very humbling to start running with the Chatt Fast Ladies, and they became an amazing and inspiring group of friends. I ran NYC Marathon and Paris Marathon without Karen's coaching, I was happy with my time and my performance. When I signed up for the Chicago marathon, I knew I wanted to improve my performance and hired Karen as my "official" coach. Because if you know Karen, she is always giving advice and motivating you to be the very best. It's in her DNA. My goal for the Chicago Marathon was to reach a Boston Qualifying time. I knew it was a stretch goal but she believed in me. Karen put together a training plan that was customized to my schedule, with local races, vacations, travels. She also ran with me and was available for any questions I may have. Not only I gained a 34 minutes PR over the Paris Marathon from April 2023 to the Chicago Marathon in October 2023, but I also reached a Boston Qualifying time with 5 minutes 40 seconds buffer. I could not have achieved my goals without my dear friend and the best coach ever, Karen. So do not hesitate, call her and join us on our next training runs!