Boston Marathon Q&A: Allison DeStefano

This post is part of our Boston Marathon Q&A, where we ask local runners about their journey from the streets of Boston to the finish line of the 2013 Boston Marathon.

Name: Allison DeStefano
Age: 25
Residence: Brighton, MA

Allison DeStefano at the 2012 Hyannis Marathon. Photo provided.

What did your training regimen look like?
This will be my fifth marathon and I took all the knowledge I gained from previous training to create my regimen for Boston. I logged 45 to 50 miles a week, did a lot of hill work and speed work, and made a point to run all parts of the course multiple times. The weekend long runs are what make or break training and I did at least three 20+ milers to prepare my body, but more importantly, to prepare my mind. I was fortunate enough to lead a marathon training group through City Sports [where DeStefano works] and running with driven, like-minded individuals made all the difference in my training.

What was the hardest part of training?
Training in the winter! Once I’m out and in motion I can quickly put the cold out of my mind, but the absolute hardest step was always the one out the front door.

What’s your favorite pre-race (night before) meal?
Being a gluten-free vegan means I have to get a little creative in the kitchen, but the meal usually ends up being a vegetable and rice pasta dish of some sort. In the end I will eat anything that I happen to be in the mood for as long as I’ve eaten it before and know it won’t produce any negative side effects.

What is your favorite post-race meal?
Coffee and a peanut butter and banana sandwich.

How will you stay motivated during the course?
I’ve wanted to run Boston for a very long time, so finally being there will keep me motivated, but it will also be incredibly encouraging to see my family, friends, and students (I’m a teacher) along the way!

Why are you running the Boston marathon?
I have an all-encompassing love for running and have grown so much from the sport. Running the Boston Marathon has always been a dream of mine and I knew I wanted to do whatever it took to make that dream a reality. Boston is more than a race; it’s an experience, and I intend to enjoy every minute of it!

Do you have any racing superstitions?
My little sister gave me a St. Sebastian medal that I wear pinned inside my shirt. I can’t run a race without it.

What will you be doing the day after the Boston Marathon?
Thinking, “I wanna do that again!”