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Janet Polizois started running about seven years ago to get back into shape after having two children. She chose running because it was more convenient than joining a gym. At first, she couldn't even run a few blocks without getting side3 stitches and being out of breath, but she was persistent and eventually worked up to a three mile run which she did for about four years. Then she entered her first road race, which was a local five miler and came home with a trophy!!! Her younger son even brought it in for Show and Tell the next day, he was so proud of her new competitive athletic status! Now she has been racing for two years: many 5K's to three full marathons, including New York.

She joined the Striders in October of 1998, after meeting Steve Austin and other Striders at the Denville Harvest Festival. She likes the varied abilities of the members because there is usually someone slower or faster than you and many experienced people to learn from or just to talk about running with.  There is always a group to hang with before or after a race. She enjoys being part of the Striders Women's team.

Two injuries forced her to slow down. She had ITB when she was training for her first marathon, but it improved by the start of the race. This season, she has had nagging Plantar Fasciitis which seems to be improving slowly. Both injuries required rest and anti-inflammatory medication, along with cortisone shots [not highly recommended -ed. note]. She has absolutely hated not being able to run because then she felt like a slug.

She has had two memorable races. One was the Spring Lake Five miler in 2000. She placed 125th out of 3056 women with a PR of 37:52. The other was running the 1999 New York City Marathon. The crowds lining the entire route were so motivating and it was an awesome race to complete. Her marathon PR was 4:08 last spring at the Jersey Shore Marathon.

The most exotic place she has run was Maui several years ago. Running along the pacific Ocean with that scenery was just beautiful! She also has run in Southern CA. where she loved the palm trees!

She has volunteered at several races and says, "It is so much easier to keep clapping and yell 'You look great! Keep going.'"

Running and racing has become an integral part of her life and her enthusiasm has brought some new members to the Striders this past year. She says, "Whatever your ability, there is a place for you in this club!"