Running couple keep marriage in stride
Ryan and Jill McKim of Halifax have competed in a combined six marathons
Ryan and Jill McKim’s relationship often moves along at a good pace.
Ryan got his wife into running when the pair started dating years ago.
“That was our weekend activity: our long run,’’ said Jill.
“I guess it’s just a healthy part of our relationship.’’
The Halifax couple, both 33, has tallied a combined for six marathons: four by him, two by her.
Ryan says he and his wife have used marathons in part as an excuse to travel, tackling runs in Chicago twice and in New York once.
There is also a strong social component, he says, noting most of the couple’s friends are in the running community.
“It’s a good way to stay connected and get out,’’ he said.
The birth of two children has slowed Jill’s pavement pounding considerably over the past couple years.
It’s a good way to stay connected and get out.
Ryan McKim on running with his wife, Jill
She managed to run two half marathons between the arrival of Claire, now 2, and eight- monthold baby George.
On Sunday, she ran her first half marathon since the birth of George.
The run took place on Jill’s sixth wedding anniversary making her successful completion of the approximately 21- kilometre trek a bit more special.
Ryan normally runs faster than Jill but on this day he was staying with her stride for stride to provide support and encouragement.
“He was my pace bunny,’’ said Jill. “I would have gone slower ( without Ryan) for sure. There might have been some motivational talk.’’