Meet the Outrunners: Christine Clark

Outrun the Dark is a brand representing a community of runners who outrun their inner demons. We call them Outrunners. Either for themselves or others, an Outrunner is someone who runs to stay ahead of the darkness, and in the process inspire those around them.

In a series of interviews, you will get to know some of the Outrunners in our community, what drives them, what their struggles are and what has helped them get past them.

Today we had the chance to interview Texan resident Christine. Originally from Kansas, Christine is always on the go whether it is running, doing yoga, HIIT classes, and is part of our  Facebook community group.


Hello! Can you tell us a little bit about yourself, who you are, where you are from and what you do?

My name is Christine Clark; a native Kansan now living in Northeast Texas.   I am a radiologic technologist, specializing in mammography.


What are you passionate about outside of running and your day job?

I want others to understand that they have the power to make positive changes in their lives, and that there are resources to help them.


When and how did you start running? 

I ran sometimes while at college, and for a short time after that.  I started again about a year ago after a very discouraging day at work.  I literally wanted to run away from everything.

What does Outrun the Dark mean to you?

Childhood trauma left me feeling that I didn't fit in anywhere, and the feeling followed me into my adult life.  I have a much needed sense of finally belonging, without criticism.


What is your favorite part about the Outrun the dark community?

The camaraderie found in sharing not only a sport but admitting that we are struggling with similar issues.  There is so much love and support in this group.


What has been the most trying part of your life up until now? What helped you get through it?

The feeling of never being good enough. To help me, my maturing faith, and the aging process has softened that somewhat.


What do you know today that you wish your 20 year old self knew?

Be true to your authentic self.  Trying to force myself to meet someone else's expectations has never ended well.


What helps you go for a run when you don’t feel like it?

Recalling how I will feel after the run … accomplished, and less anxious.  It gets me out of myself.


What is your alternative workout when you can't run because of injury or circumstance?

HIIT classes,  lifting workouts, and yoga.  I try to do these activities regularly, because they are so helpful to my running.


What book or movie have most impacted your life and why?

Honestly, a book I bought at the 9/11 museum, ‘No Day Shall Ever Erase You’ touched deeply. Every American should visit Ground Zero. The sheer bravery at all costs that was demonstrated on that day, as well as our vulnerability as a nation is overwhelming.


If you could put anything on a billboard in front of the world to see, what would you put on it?

Please stop hating.


Are you currently training for any upcoming events?

Funny story here… my daughter gave birth to her first child recently.  I had decided (before the birth) to honor her by running the baby’s birth weight in miles.  Thinking I would be looking at around 6 or 7 miles, the little stinker came in at 10lbs 1oz!!!  My longest run so far has been 9.3 miles (15km), so I have some work to do. Reaching this, (and I will), has reignited my desire to complete a half marathon within the next 12 months.


Anything else you want to add before we wrap up?

Thank you for the inspiration and courage found in this group of kindred souls.


Thank you Christine for sharing a little bit about yourself, and congratulations on the news of your grandchild! Now we look forward to hearing about your celebratory run soon!