Daniel Smith, ERC member and owner of DJ Smith Photography started a new “Runner’s Spotlight” feature on the ERC’s Facebook page. This is something I’ve been wanting to do here at Runner’s Notes for a long time, but photos have been the challenge for me. Photos are no challenge for D.J. who gave me permission to repost his weekly spotlight here on Runner’s Notes for those of you who “don’t do” Facebook.

Photo by: Daniel Smith

Name: Kayla Slivinski

Age: 19

Years Running: 7 years

Current PRs: 1M: 5:48 5k: 21:13 10k: 46:18 HM: 1:45

Inspiration: My family inspires me, especially my aunt, uncle and cousins. I like to race at different places so I can get a different view of life around me. Running pushes me to stay focused on important things in life. I enjoy running with the people at races because the people are always so nice to you all the time. It’s a nice person-to-person feel. Mostly, I just do it for fun.

Running Goals: My goal right now is to beat my uncle Ken Domsic in the upcoming Turkey Trot 10k. My family basesThanksgiving off of the Turkey Trot, and it gives me a good excuse to eat more turkey.

First Half -Marathon Experience: My goal was to make it to mile 8 and from there it was all downhill. It was an extra long run for me. I did dread the half marathon distance, but I completed it so I’m happy I accomplished it.

Did you do the math and figure out that Kayla’s been running since she was 12?

Think she can take her Uncle Ken at the Turkey Trot?

Do you want to be in the spotlight …or is there a local runner you want to know more about?

Email me at zipdang22@aol.com and I’ll pass suggestions along to DJ.