Coach Anne-Marie Blaney
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Running has been present in my life ever since I was young. Growing up in Ocala, Florida, the love of athletics was a family affair. My father ran for the University of Florida and both my parents instilled in me and my sister, Catherine, the transformative power of sport. My sister and I trained side-by-side in high school and helped each other to collegiate scholarships. Ironically, we ended up at rival colleges – I spent five years at the University of Central Florida while she headed to the University of South Florida.
After college, I had the incredible opportunity to pursue professional running and joined the Hansons-Brooks ODP team in Rochester, Michigan (where Coach Katie also was a member of the same team!). I've been proud to call this team home since 2017, thriving in the team training environment that perfectly suits my social running style. There's something magical about having teammates who push you to be better every single day while creating lasting friendships along the way! |
PERSONAL BESTS: Mile - 4:45 5k - 15:34 10k - 32:02 Half Marathon - 1:10:54 Marathon - 2:29:25 |
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My time with Hansons-Brooks has been filled with remarkable achievements and experiences. I've qualified for multiple US Championships in the 10k, earned two Olympic Marathon Trials qualifications (2020 and 2024), and earned two Olympic Trials 10k qualifications (2021 and 2024). Some of my most memorable racing experiences include competing at the World Cross Country Championships in Aarhus, Denmark, running the Bank of America Chicago Marathon (2021 and 2024), the Ottawa Marathon (2022), and experiencing the legendary Boston Marathon (2023).
Each race has been a unique adventure that has broadened my understanding of different courses, varying distances, and racing strategies. Running has given me the incredible gift of travel and the opportunity to be part of amazing race events around the world. These experiences have not only shaped me as an athlete but have also equipped me with a wealth of knowledge that I'm excited to share with the athletes I coach. |
Anne-Marie training with her Hansons-Brooks teammates
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Anne-Marie racing the Chicago Marathon
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Recently, I've made Charlotte, North Carolina my home and have quickly embraced the vibrant running community here. The transition has reinforced my belief in how special the running community truly is – it's simultaneously vast and intimate, welcoming and supportive.
My journey from runner to coach feels like a natural evolution driven by my desire to help other athletes reach their goals. I want to be more than just a coach – I want to be your teammate, accountability partner, and mentor. I believe in showing up for each athlete I work with, bringing the same dedication and support that has been so instrumental in my own running journey. The running community is truly amazing in its ability to connect people from all walks of life. We share something special – the knowledge of what it means to dig deep when the going gets tough, to celebrate small victories, and to support each other through challenges. Whether you're taking your first steps as a runner or chasing a personal best, I'm here to guide you with the same encouragement and expertise that running has given me throughout my career. When I'm not coaching or training, you'll likely find me exploring the food + craft brew scene around Charlotte, beekeeping, or traveling to visit friends and family! |
