Patti Castalano Dillon was the greatest female distance runner in the United States in the late 1970s - early 1980s.  She won her first race, the 1976 Ocean State Marathon, only six months after she started running, earning a BQ.  She set world records in the 5 mile, 20k, 30k, and half marathon; American records in the 10k and 15k; and was the first American woman to break 2:30 in the marathon.   As one of the first female runners to sign a professional contract with a sponsor, she was a pioneer in women’s distance running.   Her successes came at a cost, however, which she talks about frankly in this episode.  She’s risen above the obstacles that she’s faced over the years, and her story can serve as an inspiration to us all. For complete show notes and links, visit our website at runningforreal.com/episode292.   Thank you to Tracksmith and InsideTracker for sponsoring this episode. Tracksmith is a Boston-based company that truly cares about the quality of their running clothes. Running can be demanding on our clothes; they definitely go through wear and tear to where we may be purchasing new clothes constantly. Tracksmith designers work with the finest materials and keep you in mind as a runner, with spots for your keys, phone, and fuel. You can go here to check out my favorites! Go here and use the code TINA15, and Tracksmith will donate 5% of your purchase to Runners for Public Lands, and you’ll get free shipping! Have you not been feeling yourself lately? Gone down a lot of avenues but haven’t really found clear solutions? That is where InsideTracker can come in for you.  I have trusted this company for years to show me where I may be lacking and if I need a few tweaks here and there. I count on InsideTracker to help me decipher the science behind it all. Go here to get 25% off site wide. Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could listen to, and we are honored you have chosen Running For Real.  If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that the topic will resonate with them.  Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are others are too, and you will help them feel less alone.  Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player. Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people. Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe?  You can find out here. "Thank you" to Patti.  We look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.