Sarah Stone
My name is Sarah Stone, and I've been a member of PPTC since the winter of 2019. My first real experience of PPTC was through Noah's evening speed workouts, where I met an enthusiastic, encouraging, and super fast group of humans. Soon thereafter, I joined the Sunday long runs which gave me a breathe of fresh air (literally) and priceless friendships throughout the pandemic.
Almost five years later, PPTC is a core part of my experience as a neighbor, community member, and runner here in Brooklyn. At PPTC, I've volunteered at many Al Goldstein races and have of course experienced the frigid temperatures with everyone as a participant and volunteer at the Cherry Tree race. After Coach John Honerkamp began the morning Tuesday training sessions, I initiated the "Alt Speed / Nightschool" Tuesday evening training sessions to reach folks who were unable to join the morning workouts due to work or childcare schedules. The Tuesday Alt Speed crew is an example of how I seek to create more opportunities for all members of PPTC to find supportive and inspiring environments to train and connect in. Even when sidelined with injury, I am motivated by the fearless members of PPTC who continue to push themselves physically and spiritually through speedworkouts, snowstorms, and marathons.
Running has been my window into new worlds, self-discovery, winding paths, strong friendsips, and diverse experiences since I first joined my small town's middle school co-ed cross country team. Since then, running has been a way for me to learn determination, perseverance, consistency, care, and teamwork. Outside of PPTC, I try to teach those values at a local DOE high school here in Brooklyn. Running and community through sports has been a core part of my personal and professional lives.
I am running (pun very much intended) to join the PPTC board in order to continue to support spaces within the club where each member can build confidence, fitness, and friendship. I'll continue to think outside the box to bring more folks in to our team, to encourage people to share motivational quotes during park loops, and to contribute a combination of light-heartedness and intentionality to the board.