Spotlight on Mimi Cox
This month I interviewed Mimi Cox who is a seasoned team Race Guards team member in Dallas. You can tell how passionate she is for running and for Race Guards in her interview.
Smiles for miles: Mimi (left) with Dr Laura
Q. How did you first become interested in Race Guards?
A. I saw a friend post about Race Guards and I thought “how fun!” I would be able to run the distance of the race, help people and run with my friends!
Q. What is your favorite aspect of being a Race Guards member?
A. I really enjoy giving back to the running community and watching the athlete that I helped cross the finish line.
Q. What is the most recent event you participated in and what is your favorite?
A. The most recent event I participated in was the 2017 Dallas Running Club Half Marathon. My favorite race is the Cowtown Marathon in Ft. Worth, TX.
In great company: Mimi (right) with Founder Andy, Expo Director Rich, and Medical Director Dr. Laura
Q. What is your most memorable experience as a Race Guards member?
A. My very first race as a Race Guards team member put such a big smile on my face. It was so exciting to have helped runners finish something that they had trained for. Sometimes it was just an encouraging word, but the runners still appreciated it. I also loved watching the Race Guards veteran team members do their thing out on course. It was very impressive.
Q. Can you give an example of someone that you helped at an event and how it impacted you?
A. Just giving someone something so simple, like salt, Perform spray, or a smile can have a big impact. Sometimes an athlete will find us after the race and thank us and tell us that we helped them finish the race.
Q. What is your funniest Race Guards moment?
A. It is hilarious to run with Dr. Laura Dowd ( Race Guards medical director) because when you can’t find her for a minute you need to remember to look for a dog. And yep, there she will be, probably taking a selfie with the dog. Priceless!
Q. What is your favorite post race pig-out food?
A. Anything! But tacos are probably my favorite.
Q. What is your fitness background and have you had any physical challenges or injuries along the way?
A. I am the Assistant Training Director for the Dallas Running Club. You can find me running and in the gym 4-5 days a week. I travel to run with my friends all over the US.
I once tore the ligaments and tendons in my foot when I stepped on a rock running an overnight relay at 2:00am. The doctor said I would never run again. That was in 2007. Hmmmmmm
Q. How would you sum up your philosophy of life in one sentence?
A. In the midst of our good, hard, happy and sad times, find your Blessing.
Q. Is there anything that you would like to add?
A. I am so thankful for Race Guards. Running is so fabulous. Anyone can do it. And Race Guards enables the runner to be successful. Usually, when we are needed, there isn’t a medical tent close by. We are able to help the runner and keep them on the course. And if the medical situation is more serious, we are there to get the medical attention the runner needs. I think all races need Race Guards. I am so blessed to be a Race Guards team member. I am always encouraging my fellow runners to sign up and volunteer to join Race Guards.
Thank you Mimi for being such a big part of our Dallas area team! Your enthusiasm and experience is what helps make Race Guards so incredible.