MEMBER OF MONTH – AILEEN FLANAGAN

Now, this is a fantastic story! Aileen Flanagan is not your run-of-the-mill everyday runner; she likes to take her challenges to the extreme. Many years ago, one event led to a quest that she just recently finished and is a fantastic feat that many wouldn’t even consider. 

Aileen recently crossed off Alaska as the final state of her goal to run a half-marathon in each of the 50 states. To top it off, she also ran a half-marathon on the seven continents. Her journey began on a family trip to China to see the Great Wall. She saw that there was a half marathon that ran along the Great Wall and knew she had to do it. Her most memorable race was this one since it was the starting point of a lengthy journey. Another noteworthy event occurred when she competed in a Kenya race on open game preservation. Helicopter lookouts and snipers were on the course to protect the runners from possible wildlife encounters. WOW, can you imagine! Aileen was surprised when she approached a helicopter trying to move some animals, and a water buffalo ran right across her path. Not your everyday occurrence during a half marathon! 

We are so proud of what Aileen has been able to accomplish throughout the years! Here’s to many more adventures and races in your future!

    1. How long have you been a member of the Chatham Club? I have been a member of the club for almost 32 years!
    2. What do you like most about the club? I love the quality and number of classes that are offered. The club is very clean and has lots of friendly people.
    3. What are your go-to classes? I enjoy taking Muscle Shock and Yoga the most.
    4. What are your least favorite exercises? Any of the cardio pieces. Especially the treadmill (which is ironic because I’m such a huge runner!).
    5. What are your favorite exercises? I love doing any time of strength training.
    6. What do you enjoy doing outside of the club? Running!!
    7. Any upcoming goals? I want to do all the races that I wanted or should have done but missed due to my training for the ½ marathon quests.