Our 2024 May Runner Spotlight is on Hannah Freedman! We interviewed her below.
- When did you start running? Why did you start running?
I started running in early 2022 but had to take a long break due to health issues and restarted running in October 2023 with my first official race that month. At first I thought I would do a 5k once a month through the end of 2023 and in 2024 but then I found Bishop’s Events and am now doing at least 1 a weekend. I started to run because it seemed like the next logical step in my health and fitness journey. I am disabled and in 2020 as a 21 year old, I went through a period where I was unable to walk without a cane and thought by 25, I wouldn’t be able to walk at all. Now at 25, I am able to not just walk but I am able run and I don’t plan on ever stopping!
- How many events a year do you typically do?
I try to do at least 1 Bishop event per weekend but I am trying to hit 100 events in 2024. The “Large Commemorative Item” and Bishop’s Chess Piece are calling my name!
- Most embarrassing running experience? or biggest accomplishment?
Most embarrassing moment was when I was in a race and on my own for a while and the first person to come along happened to pass me at the exact moment that I fell into a bush. Didn’t trip over anything, my body just decided to go into a bush! Biggest accomplishment is coming back every week for more! If someone told me in 2020 that I would be able to run even a mile, I wouldn’t have believed you. Getting to the start line week after week is one of the biggest things that I will always be proud of.
- Something we should know about you?
I am on a quest to get to all 63 of the US National Parks! So far I have been to 25, most of which I have driven to with my pup, Bernie.
- If you could run any race, what would it be?
As someone who grew up in Boston, I would love to be able to run in the Boston Marathon. It will take me a long time to qualify so while I’m working on that, I would love to do the RunDisney Marathon Weekend!
- What keeps you coming back for more of our events?
The community! I’ve done races where no one is at the finish line cheering on the back of the pack runners and it is so discouraging. It was amazing at my first Bishops race to realize that there are folks cheering until the last person crosses the finish line. (The medals are also a plus! What other time as an adult are you able to get a medal!?) 
- How has running changed your life?
Running has given me power back over myself. As someone who has been plagued by health issues, it is hard to feel like you have control over your own life. Running has given me that control and power back.
- Favorite post run food?
Old Bay Chicken Wings! My husband and I are Wizards season ticket holders so when a Bishop Race is the same day as a home game, we go from the finish line straight to the arena to get me some Old Bay Chicken Wings from DMV Wings. If there is no game, WingStop Old Bay Wings also suffice.
- Favorite race/course?
Do I have to pick one? If I had to choose a flat course, it would probably be Gravelly Point, I love the views of DC from across the Potomac! For a course with “rolling hills” I have to pick the Paradise Springs course. It’s tough but I love a good rock scramble.
- Favorite parts of an event or things you look forward to at one of our events?
Reaching the finish line! Not only do I know that I can warm up/ cool down in my car after a race but I also know that I accomplished something and that there are people waiting to cheer everyone on. It gives the needed motivation for a strong finish!