For our "Run Hard, Risk Heartbreak" campaign, we asked athletes and community members to share what the concept means to them. Breann Campise is a Heartbreaker, coach, and former Bryant University cross-country and track & field athlete. Here's here take:
What does "Run Hard, Risk Heartbreak" mean to you?
To me this means to be able to put it all out there during a race and not hold anything back. To set those high goals for yourself and work towards them with everything you have knowing you might still fall short. You’re giving everything you have and setting your heart on the line in hopes it comes true.
Do you have an example in running or life that you'd like to share?
I like to think I’ve always used a little of “Run Hard Risk Heartbreak” in my running. I like to set high goals for myself because I had a coach who said that our goals should scare us. Means that we care enough about it to have something to lose by giving it our all.
How would you describe your relationship with running?
Running has always been something I can count on (unless when I've been in recovery for one of the many injuries I’ve had). But it’s always something I can look forward to that I know I’ll end in a better mood than I started in. I'm also very thankful for the sport because it’s given me more opportunities than I can count. I’m very grateful.
When did you start running and why?
I started running freshman year of high school because I needed a break from playing soccer. Surprisingly, I was the goalie and didn’t run at all; I have never looked back since.
Who keeps you running?
The Heartbreaker Team is the big reason. After graduating college and being considered “retired” from the sport, I very much missed being a part of a team and having friends to train with. Joining this team has been the single best decision I’ve made since moving to Boston. The friends I’ve made from my college team are a big part as well because it’s so nice still being able to run with them when we see each other and continue to support each other in what we are each doing with running now.
What do you love about running?
I love how it makes me feel when I’ve just finished a hard workout or a long run. I love the competitiveness of races and the team environment that is always there. I also love how many places running has brought me. I’ve been able to run every area of Boston, the mountains in Acadia Park, gorgeous beaches all over, and some of the biggest collegiate races in the country. All places and opportunities I wouldn’t have experienced without running.
What was your favorite item you wore and why?
The singlet! So comfortable and the bright red is perfect to rep Heartbreak.
