148. April Cargill on Becoming a Marathoner at 50

"I thought oh, London Marathon, that sounds cute! So I signed up. And then I was like Paris Marathon? Oh my god, that sounds so cute, too. So I signed up for that, too."

In her twenties, April Cargill was a two-pack-a-day smoker working long days and staying up late nights in the fashion industry in New York City. Today, at 55, the Harlem native is a six-time marathoner on a quest to complete all six World Marathon Majors. On this episode, April — who is the director of production for designer Shoshanna Lonstein Gruss — talks about why she started running in her fifties, what finally got her to kick the smoking habit, and what it's like being a hard-working single mom.

Thank you to the New York Road Runners Virtual Pride Run 5K for sponsoring this episode of the Ali on the Run Show! CLICK HERE to register (it’s free!) and complete your run between June 22–30. Everybody’s doing it!

What you’ll get on this episode:

What was 20-year-old April up to? (3:00) What April’s job in the fashion industry is like (4:50) How April got into a serious smoking habit — and found fitness when she quit (7:40) What it was like starting running in her fifties, and the intimidation factor that came with it (23:00) On joining November Project, and working out with her son, Aubrey (32:00) April opens up about being a single mom (41:40) How running has helped April get through tough times (47:11)

What we mention on this episode:

Project Start

Candice Huffine on Episode 11 of the Ali on the Run Show

Pratt Institute

New York Road Runners

John Honerkamp on Episode 4 of the Ali on the Run Show

November Project

Harlem Run

Alison Desir on Episode 3 of the Ali on the Run Show

April’s November Project post

Meaghan Murphy on Episode 113 of the Ali on the Run Show

Follow April:

Instagram @abril413

Follow Ali:

Instagram @aliontherun1 Facebook Twitter @aliontherun1 Blog Strava

Listen & Subscribe:

Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play

SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!