Kelli Boniecki – Featured Runner of the Week

Grounded Running Featured Runner of the week

Every runner deserves to be featured here! All have their unique attributes and stories. The aim of having a Featured Runner of the Week is not to necessarily single out any individuals but we want to feature runners who through their uniqueness may one day inspire you to run or reach for new running highs. Every runner has broken their own barriers, whether it was the first big obstacle to take the first running step or entering a race. Each runner will have their own story and to most these stories to others are very inspiring.

We welcome your feedback and nominations of runners who you feel deserve to be featured here. Our Featured Runner of the Week is selected at random. Every runner deserves to be mentioned and we will do our best to select a wide field of runners to bring their stories for you to enjoy.

This week we feature an amazing local runner that can be found running and racing all over Beaufort and the South East. Let’s take a few minutes and get to know Kelli Boniecki:

Kelli Boniecki Featured Runner of the Week

Name: Kelli Boniecki

Age: 48

Where are you originally from? Beaufort, SC

What is your favorite distance to race? Why? 16-26 milers. Long enough to be able and eat a Dairy Queen Blizzard without having a sense of guilt.

What originally got you into running? The dark side of an eating disorder brought the brighter side of running to my life. My roommate in college ran cross country and I stepped out one day to run with her realizing how many calories I could lose a day running long distance. I was lucky enough to be invited as a walk-on for the team, but it brought out a side that almost took my life. Today, it has saved my life.

What is your main motivation to keep going? Everyday I put my running shoes on, I realize just how lucky I am to be alive. I appreciate the strong legs that have been given to me that have taken me miles where most could only dream of. My motivation is to also let others see and feel what running can give to us in terms of strength and confidence.

When you’re not running, what do you do? Crossfit, Yoga and helping with the animal rescues I volunteer with when they need me.

What is your next race? Registered for the Love Chocolate 10K…..but if chocolate is still guaranteed when I finish, the Half-Marathon may just rear it’s sweet head.

Describe your perfect run: 65°, partly cloudy, on an easy going forested dirt trail with no distance or time limits.

What piece of advice do you have for someone who is just starting out? Enjoy the feeling the run gives you inside without fixating on time, distance or others performance. Appreciate every step no matter how short or far.

What is your running goal for 2017?  To run an ultra-trail race.

 

Thank you for taking the time to tell us your story Kelli, you continue to inspire those around you and you should be proud of all your accomplishments! Keep up the great work and we wish you the best of luck this year! #staygrounded #runbeaufort

Kelli Boniecki Featured Runner of the Week