Blog

This year, the EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler is extra special for participant Amanda Sargent as her teenage son, Everett, will be joining her! As a veteran 10 Miler, Amanda is excited to have her son by her side to experience his first EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler. Although this is Everett’s first time running 10 miles, Amanda is certain he will beat her and be waiting for her at the finish line!

“Everett is a student at Central Catholic High School and is on the cross country team but he is ready for a bigger challenge,” said Amanda. “I remember encouraging him through his early 5ks, and even “surprising” him with the Double Gobble at the Turkey Trot, and now he waits for me at the finish line, which is just amazing.”

Amanda’s running journey started years ago after Everett was born. As she ran with friends, she got a little faster and a little more motivated and discovered that she really loved running as a sport. Amanda felt a rush each time she achieved something that was just for her, which inspired her kids to know that they can hit their goals too.

Amanda has channeled this passion for running into coaching and has coached cross country for the past 10 years, inspiring the next generations to run.

“Pittsburgh’s running community is also second to none, and I enjoy being a part of it. My best tip to stay motivated is to remember that racing is the reward for all of the training, and putting in the miles when it is dark, or cold, or really hot, all translate to a better racing experience when you toe the line on race day,” said Amanda.

In 2019, Amanda enjoyed the Parking Chair Mile most because of how fun it was to celebrate such a quintessential Pittsburgh institution. There is something special about how much it is respected even though its status is very unofficial. She is excited to get back to in-person racing, and is excited for her son to have this race as his first through the Pittsburgh-themed miles as well!

Are you and your family members participating in this year’s event? Check out this year’s themed miles and sign up for yourself today!