This year we were super excited to welcome our first-ever VCTF Run Ambassador! Meet Chantal Fleming, a force of energy, inspiration, and a whole lot of running spirit!
Signing up for the Cap Trail 10M and 5k (choosing the full 10-mile run!), Chantal embarked on a 5-week journey transforming her casual runs into a mission to conquer new goals. Through inspirational posts and videos of her training runs along the Capital Trail, she shared her story with our community, inspiring others along the way. From her first training run, complete with fun tips and lessons learned, to crossing the finish line, Chantal has shown us what it means to embrace challenges with passion and purpose, reminding us that every step is worth celebrating.
Check out her inspirational story below along with tips and tricks to keep you motivated and moving forward towards your next goal!
iNSPIRATION TO Step into the Spotlight
Being the first run ambassador for the Capital Trail has been so exciting! It’s been amazing to set the stage for something I believe in and am truly passionate about. I’ve been running on the trail for years, and I love experiencing its beauty, nature, and history. Sharing that with others and communicating the trail’s unique charm through my social media has made me feel proud and connected to our community.
RISING TO THE 10-mILE CHALLENGE
This one was all thanks to my Instagram followers! I posted a poll asking whether I should run the 5K or the 10-miler, and my amazing followers went all in, choosing the 10-miler! Given how much time I spend on the trail, it felt like something I just had to do. Plus, all proceeds from the event support the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation's work, so signing up was an easy decision!
FROM COMMUNITY SPIRIT TO POST-RUN FUN
The event itself was the highlight! It was amazing to see so many people come out to enjoy something healthy, community-building, and connected to this beautiful trail. Meeting participants from all walks of life and hearing their stories was inspiring, and the post-run refreshment at Hardywood Brewery was the cherry on top!
Turning Challenges into Strength
Training was tougher than I anticipated. I usually run about 4 miles a few times a week, so pushing to 10 miles was a real challenge, especially with my history of knee issues. With some advice from running buddies, I added more strength training—and it gave me the perfect excuse to buy new running shoes! The changes made a world of difference.
Celebrating Milestones & Personal Victories
I managed to run 10 miles in a skeleton-bat suit in mid-70-degree weather without passing out—I never thought that would be possible! And my finishing time wasn’t too shabby either!
Learn From Every Experience
Yes, this one’s funny! During the race, I saw what I thought was the finish line and started celebrating, even calling my friend to share the news. I didn’t realize the course looped past the finish before actually ending! When I saw other runners still going, I quickly realized I had to keep running. So, my advice: know the route before you go, and don’t be like me!
KEEPING THE MOMENTUM GOING
Next up is the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon in mid-November, and then the Anthem Shamrock Half Marathon in March! Can't wait!
Chantal did indeed knock out her second half-marathon, running an impressive 13.1 miles on November 16th. Just as we knew she would! Congratulations, Chantal!
Advice for Aspiring Runners
If you’ve ever thought about signing up for a race, here’s my advice: it doesn’t have to be about speed or competition. Sure, some folks love chasing a PR, but you don’t have to—it’s all about showing up for yourself and celebrating what your body can do.
However you move—whether you sprint, stroll, or anything in between—crossing that finish line is a powerful accomplishment. Take it at your own pace, enjoy the journey, and remember: every step forward counts. You’ve got this!
If you’d like to check out my running content, feel free to follow me on Instagram at @chantillyruns_rva!
Thank you so much, Chantal! It has been an absolute joy to follow along on your running journey and witness your incredible determination and spirit. Watching you take on the Capital Trail with passion, perseverance, and flair has been truly inspiring. We’re so grateful to have had a front-row seat to your success, and we can’t wait to see what amazing things you’ll accomplish next! Keep running strong and inspiring others every step of the way!
