Alumni Spotlight: Collins Preps For Boston Marathon

One of the most memorable races of Laura (Neufarth) Collins' life was the 2007 MAC cross country championship.

Collins won the individual conference title for the RedHawks with a time of 17:35.2, and remains the last Miami runner, male or female, to do so. She went on to place fifth at NCAA regionals and compete in the NCAA Championship meet.

Now, nearly 15 years later and no longer a student-athlete, the 2010 Miami University graduate will once again be wearing Red and White at the start line for a big race. Laura (Neufarth) Collins at the Boston Marathon

Laura (Neufarth) Collins at the Boston Marathon

The setting this time? The world-famous Boston Marathon.

Collins, who called running at Boston her 'ultimate' goal, is back for a second time; she actually qualified for and competed in last year's race, held just six months ago due to the pandemic.

"It was an amazing race," Collins said. "I always try to tell people, if you're thinking about doing it, definitely go for it, because it's like no other experience…

"You feel like a celebrity when you're there as a runner. You're walking down the street and everyone just congratulates you and cheers for you randomly. There are fans lining the entire stretch of the 26.2 miles along the whole race! They take it very seriously in Boston. It's just such a cool experience."

Collins recorded a time of 3:04 in October in her second-ever marathon (she had run a 3:07 in Seattle previously), and is hoping to break the three-hour mark next week in her return to Boston. She also made sure to procure some Miami running gear so she can proudly represent her alma mater in the process.

This year's Boston Marathon, the 126th edition of the race, will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the first women's field. Collins is glad to be part of celebrating such a notable milestone.

"It's obviously something really exciting to be a part of," she said. "It's hard to imagine that women weren't allowed to compete at some point, because I haven't really had to face that in my lifetime.

"I've always been able to pursue those dreams and opportunities that I've had, so it's really cool to take a step back and honor those that have paved the way in making that possible for women today."

Glenn and Laura (Neufarth) Collins

During her time at Miami, Collins was a three-time All-MAC performer and contributed to two cross country team championships (2008 and 2009) after transferring in from Ohio State. She also excelled in track, claiming a MAC title in the 5000-meter run during the 2008 indoor season.

"I think it was the best decision I ever made," Collins said of her decision to join the RedHawks. "I really enjoyed my time on the team there. Most of my favorite memories involve the friendships I made through the cross country and track teams."

Collins graduated with an exercise science degree and now works as a physical therapist assistant near her home in Edmonds, Wash. She is married to Glenn Collins (also a former cross country runner), and is glad he'll be able to accompany her to Boston and cheer her on.

"He'll see me for a whole two seconds, because it's a tough race for spectators," she laughed. "But it's fun knowing that he's there!"

Although Collins said she always thought of cross country as her strongest event in college, allowing her to get off the track and run on different terrain and hills, she knows the literal ups and downs of the Boston course are not for the faint of heart. Especially 'Heartbreak Hill' in the final third of the race.

"It's placed perfectly to crush your spirits," said Collins. But the encouragement of the crowd—as well as the drinks and energy gels that get handed to runners every mile or two—should be enough to help Collins and her fellow runners to the finish line. Laura (Neufarth) Collins at the Boston Marathon

"The goal is to keep moving and not break your pace," Collins said. "You're running along and these people are just holding up drinks for you, so you have to grab it. You usually spill most of it, trying to funnel these cups, drink, and eat this goo while you're bouncing; that's just how it is! It's definitely not graceful. You end the race just covered in Gatorade and water and then they're trying to take your picture.

"It's kind of laughable when you look back at it!"

In other words, look for Laura (Neufarth) Collins wearing bib number 8075 in Boston…wearing the Red and White of Miami…and wearing a big smile on her face. Because whether or not she's covered in liquid at the end of the day, her experience at the 126^th Boston Marathon will likely be a success.

Follow the Boston Marathon on Monday, April 18 by downloading the B.A.A. Racing app to track individual runners or by watching television coverage on USA Network.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Is there a former Miami student-athlete you'd like to see profiled in a future 'Alumni Spotlight' article? Send your story ideas to caryt@miamioh.edu or to @TimCary on Twitter.

Alumni Spotlight: Collins Preps For Boston Marathon

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