Triumphant runner Krissy Schintgen crosses the finish line of her first 5K alongside her daughter in June, 2013. Photo credit: Katie Richard, Focal Flame Photography
Running changes everything. Just ask Krissy Schintgen (33) of Middleton, Wisconsin. After years of struggling with the crippling effects from two strokes, Krissy decided to fight back. Starting little by little, she trained for Girls On The Run with daughter, Lily, then did the unthinkable and ran right next to Lily during the 2013 Girls On The Run 5K in June, 2013. Krissy began training for longer distances and became a half-marathon finisher at the Madison Marathon in November, 2013. She will be doing two Madison Marathon events in 2014: the half-marathon on May 25 and her first-ever full marathon on November 9.
Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events as well as Girls On The Run of Dane County, asked her about why she runs.
Focal Flame Photography: How many Madison Marathons or Half Marathons have you run?
Krissy: One event, soon to be three.
FFP: Do you participate in other similar events?
Krissy: Yes - Glow Run, Mud Run, Color Me Rad, UW Madison Races, Shamrock Shuffle, Cannonball Run, Girls On The Run and the Parkinson's Half Marathon.
FFP: Are there any personal accomplishments you would like to mention?
Krissy: After a year of training, I ran my first Half Marathon. I also set up a virtual race and raised $1,100; 100 percent of the funds were donated to the Challenged Athletes Foundation.
FFP: I love your email moniker, "notfastjustfabulous." Is there a race story behind it?
Krissy: The name Not Fast Just Fabulous actually comes from my personal story of overcoming adversity. [Author's Note: To read more about Krissy's running journey, visit her blog Not Fast, Just Fabulous.]
Krissy's Personal Story
Krissy Schintgen rocks the 2014 Madison Shamrock Shuffle, sporting a brilliant smile despite high winds and cold temperatures. Photo credit: Clint Thayer, Focal Flame Photography
FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Krissy: After years of struggling with crippling pain, depression, and physical limitations due to two strokes, I decided to fight back. I threw aside my cane, stopped taking the heavy medication that left me dazed and unmotivated, and stepped outside. At first I walked, then I jogged, and now I run to remind myself that anything is possible.
FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon? What makes it special?
Krissy: It’s a special race because it was where I accomplished my biggest and most inspirational personal goal ever.
FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun?
Krissy: Last November I crossed the finish line with two extremely amazing pacers who believed in me when I wanted to quit; I wore a pink tutu and cape that read “Not Fast Just Fabulous”. This May’s half marathon will be special because my husband will be running with me, his first race ever! In November, I will be running my first MARATHON…. and with my husband! We are going to be wearing wedding apparel and renewing our vows at the finish line for our 10 year anniversary!
FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Krissy: Running reminds me that my disabilities do NOT define me. I hope that my journey will help motivate and inspire others to dream beyond their abilities and take it one step at a time.
- article by Deborah Proctor
This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon Event May 24-25 and/or November 9, 2014. For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.