Athlete Success Stories
“Paula has significantly helped this 54-year-old runner hit PB’s I never thought possible. I have had incredible improvement with all my times, from the 5K thru to the marathon since training with Paula. She has helped me to understand proper pacing, interval training, and how to ‘run slower to run faster.’ I truly appreciate her tailored plans that are helping me to lead to breakthroughs in my running times after several years of plateauing and in some cases slowing down. Paula is also very cognizant of making sure her runners avoid injuries by implementing proper, personalized training loads as well as balancing hard work with recovery and rest days. Paula also has expert knowledge to back up her training plans. Most importantly, however, is Paula’s approachability, encouragement and support. Since working with Paula, I have a renewed passion for running and a confidence to help me prepare for big, scary goals. I see Boston in my future with Paula by my side.”
Shannon Wilson Age 54
Mother, Grandmother, Nurse, 25-time Marathon finisher, 9-time IRONMAN finisher.
“Paula has been my running coach since the spring of 2019. I had been a competitive master’s runner for 15+ years, primarily on the track, when my retirement living location made access to a track difficult. When I signed up with Paula I was looking to improve my 5 km road race time. Within a very short period Paula started encouraging me to try a half marathon, saying I would love it. While I did see my 5 km time improve over the next few years, in 2024 I was finally convinced to try a half. Paula was right, I loved it, loved the training, came second in my age group in my first race in the distance, ahead by over two minutes of our goal time. What’s not to love about that! The fall of 2025 I ran my second half marathon FOUR MINUTES faster than that first one and won my age group by 5 minutes! Paula’s workouts are perfect for my lifestyle, the weekly interval training sessions are tough but fun. The long runs are set up gradually to increase the distance without even really noticing. Rest days are given (and welcome!) as Paula appreciates the impact that overtraining can have on a ‘maturing’ body. She also believes that I know my body best and if extra rest or a shorter session is necessary, take it.”
Joyce Acton Age 65 -Competitive Masters Runner
15+ Years Track & Road Experience
I sought out Paula as my coach in 2025 to prepare for the Ontario 5K Championships. After running several marathons, I was ready to get faster over shorter distances - and as a master’s runner, it was important to me to work with someone who not only understood this phase of training, but was still performing at an incredibly high level herself.
Paula’s programming was exceptional - thoughtfully structured, with the right balance of progression and recovery. I felt challenged, supported, and consistently moving forward.
What stood out most was her ability to take my goals seriously while also adapting training to meet the demands of this stage of life. That combination is rare - and it made all the difference.
Shawna Darou Age 53
"I started my running journey a little later in life, in my mid 40's. Prior to that I had run to train for other sports but never considered racing. In my 40's I decided I would give a road race a try and I was hooked. I started out my training for my new found passion by downloading online programs and sharing programs friends of mine had. I soon learned these programs were not personalized for my needs, age, fitness level, I was getting injuries and my results plateaued.
As a result I approached Paula and explained my situation and asked if she could help and she agreed to assist. She listened to what I had been doing, and gave some advice on how to improve my training. She developed a personalized training program for me that has allowed me to pursue my racing goals, maintain a healthy training regimen, and continue to enjoy running.
In addition to creating and monitoring my training plan, I have really found her advice extremely helpful before a race. She assists in developing my race plan and race day preparation which have helped calm the race day jitters we all get and focus on executing my race plan and achieving my goals."
Tom Fourier
The few years coach Paula Wiltse has coached me I have become a more accomplished, structured and disciplined runner. This has allowed me to qualify and be accepted for the Boston Marathon in April 2026.
Dave Forkutza,
Dave Forkutza Age 62
Paula has been my coach for many years. In that time , she has helped me progress from an average runner to an athlete who has out performed her own expectations. Paula has an incredible ability to accurately access where an athlete is at and to have a vision for their potential.
She helps athletes reach their goals through individualized training plans which are realistic and effective. The plan builds in recovery and injury prevention.
As an older female runner , I love the support I receive from my coach and the entire Reason2Run training group.
Under Paula's coaching I ran a personal best at Boston marathon 3.40. 37 and a half marathon time of 1.41.35 , 10 km of 47.11
If you want to realize your running potential I would highly recommend Paula as your coach.
Ilona Thomas Age 62