Tiffany Costello

Elite Marathon Runner

How did you start running?

I have run cross-country and track from the seventh grade through college. I always loved playing soccer and club soccer. In college, I ran competitively for the University of California Santa Barbara. Several months after graduating from college, I started running marathons. I always wanted to be a marathon runner.

What motivated you to become an elite marathon runner?

My coach said, “What is your goal?”

I answered, “To run 3:15!”

My coach said, “You can qualify for the Olympic Trials.”

My coach made a training-plan for me, I wrote down the plan and typed everything up for 2020-2022. After brain-surgery, I have been coaching myself and always train with the plan from my coach.

What was your very first marathon?

The California International Marathon, in 2018. I qualified for Olympic trials, by running 2:45 flat.

What was your most memorable moment during the California International Marathon?

Me crossing the finish-line, waiting to hear from the announcer to see if I qualified. The entire family was in tears.

Do you have a favorite Olympic Trials moment?

I finished the Olympic Trials Marathon, in 2:52.

Where are your favorite places to run?

Huntington beach!

Santa Barbara, Ventura Trail or from Santa Barbara to Carpinteria.

Even though I do live at the beach, I would pick Santa Barbara to run. I love Huntington, but it is very flat compared to Santa Barbara. Whenever I need hills, I go to Santa Barbara.

Where is your favorite place to run whilst traveling?

Colorado, for altitude training!

What has been your biggest obstacle to overcome as an athlete?

Having brain surgery this year.

My fastest half-marathon time is, 1:17. Three months after having brain surgery, I ran a 1:20 half-marathon.

I started training for the 2022 Boston Marathon, a month after my surgery. I said, “You know what dad I am feeling good, I have had headaches, but not too crazy.” After three months post-surgery, no headaches. If I have a headache, I take it easy.

What does your typical training season look like?

Varies on what I am feeling. Training comes before work every day.

My long run is a 10-miler twice a week. I have a double-day twice a week. I look back at the training log from my coach for all my workouts.

How do you fuel on a run?

Run with water, anything more than ten miles.

I love Nuun and electrolytes!

What is your favorite food?

Salmon, arugula, and quinoa salad.

Must have running accessories?

The Garmin, 945.

I always wear the New Balance 1080’s Fresh Foam for long distance running, or the 880’s. I love New Balance sneakers.

Do you have a favorite positive affirmation or quote?

You have to go through the pain to get the game.

Any advice for having a happy and healthy running life?

Running is mental. You need mental toughness.

What is your biggest goal as an athlete?

Boston in sub-three! I will be racing on April 18th.

One more 23 miler, on Wednesday! My coach will be biking next to me. We coordinate our workout schedule around my whole work week. Every Sunday night, I write out where I am running, what time, what I need to get done, or if I have yoga and swimming.

In Boston, I am looking forward to meeting new great people, making it a fun trip I will never forget. I would like to meet Sara Hall and Stephanie Bruce!

My coach wants me to run for the experience and have fun. My entire family is flying in from California to watch me race Boston.