09/10/2026
Getting to know the 5K Committee! This week we're highlighting Emily Drees, an endurance runner and our committee's resident swag bag enthusiast! 🛍️
🔸What's your history with running/racing, and what keeps you coming back to this hobby?
"I’ve been running recreationally since middle school. I ran the long distance races on my track team and always enjoyed a good community 5k. In 2017, I did a road race series with Memphis Runners Track Club that included two races at each distance- 5k, 5 mile, 10k, 10 mile, and half-marathon. I ran all 10 races, and that really cemented my love of running. I have since run many 5Ks and 10Ks, four half-marathons, and a full marathon. My times may not be competitive, but I’ve hit so many of my own personal goals."
🔸What drew you to the Fall Fest 5K, and what's your favorite part of the event?
"Julianna initially invited several of our friends to run it the first year, and the vibes were so good that we keep coming back! The first year I walked the race with my 12 week old baby in her baby carrier."
🔸What made you want to get involved with this committee?
"Once again, Julianna's influence! She has a way of instilling her passions in others and her commitment to things is contagious. It also helps that I’ve been a part of other organizations close by, so building up the Blythe Oldfield community is a goal that's close to my heart as well."
🔸Fun Fact: "Nobody has ever been more excited about a swag bag than me!! A good t-shirt makes or breaks whether I sign up for a specific race, and fuel samples, electrolytes, nice pens, or whatever else might be in the swag bag are what motivate me to run faster!"
