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Miles to go before she sleeps-Scott lieutenant wins Air Force marathon

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Amber Kelly-Woodward
  • 375th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  An Air Mobility Command intelligence analyst was the top military female and top female in the 20-24 age group category in the Air Force marathon held Sept. 20 at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. 

"I was in front until mile 17 and I saw a lady pass me but I didn't want to chase her because I asked her and she said she was not military, so I knew I could still win the military title," said 2nd Lt. Karissa Goodrich. "I did not want to hurt myself because I have the Marine Corps marathon in four weeks." 

Lieutenant Goodrich's marathon career began in 2005 in Los Angeles, but it was supposed to be a one-time thing because it just a goal she wanted to accomplish. 

Lieutenant Goodrich began running at 14 with her dad, but did not run in preparation for a marathon until two years ago. The more she did it, the more she liked it. She also enjoyed the weight loss and benefits to her health. 

"I love the whole marathon event, like to have thousands of people screaming for you and the fact that there is a lot of food when you are done and are really hungry," said Lieutenant Goodrich. "The F-22s that flew by at the beginning of the marathon were also pretty cool." 

Even Lieutenant Goodrich's training is not like those of other marathon runners. During marathon season, Lieutenant Goodrich runs 35-40 miles a week, which includes speed training, 12-20 mile runs, cross training and strength training. When it is not marathon season, Lieutenant Goodrich runs about 20 miles a week and focuses more on cross training like biking and swimming. 

Every workout regimen also requires a healthy diet plan. 

"I'm really health conscious," said Lieutenant Goodrich. "I'm a vegetarian and I portion things. I make sure to eat a good balance of protein, carbs and fats and limit my sugar intake." 

Last year, Lieutenant Goodrich was the top female in the Air Force marathon. This got her a spot on the Air Force team after a member became injured. The Air Force team also took first place in the Armed Services marathon that year. 

"I would encourage other people to run at least the half marathon to support Air Force fitness and be Fit to Fight," said Lieutenant Goodrich. "It's worth a one time experience for those who have never done one."