Maria Lindberg: A Breakthrough Season on the Chicago Racing Circuit

CARAruns
4 hours ago
4 min read

Maria Lindberg - Circuit Spotlight

The Chicago Racing Circuit by CARA brings together runners who thrive on competition, community, and the challenge of chasing new goals across a full season of races. This year, first-time Circuit competitor Maria Lindberg made an immediate impact. A lifelong runner whose journey spans youth 5Ks, collegiate All-American honors, and now 21 marathons, Maria used the Circuit as a way to rebuild speed, set meaningful milestones, and rediscover the joy of racing. From balancing family life with training, to returning to the track for her first mile race since college, to qualifying for the Olympic Trials at the Chicago Marathon, her season was filled with breakthroughs, all fueled by consistency, community, and a deep love for running.

Q: Tell us about your running journey! How did you start running?

A: I ran my first race when I was 11, the summer before 6th grade. It was the Joe Newton 5K. My best friend suggested we do it, so we ran around the block twice the day before to prepare. I remember finishing in an over-sized t-shirt and Keds; exhausted but exhilarated.

Although I started off as a soccer player, I ran cross country and track throughout junior high and high school. My senior year was special as I won individual state championships in cross country and track, and our team at York won our first-ever cross country state championship.

From there I went off to Boston College, where I was a four time All-American. I loved competing on a team and traveling around the country for races. I was fortunate to qualify for the World Cross Country Championship in Ireland; my first trip to Europe. After I completed my athletic eligibility, I stayed at Boston College to complete my graduate work in psychology and started working in the field. I continued to run to stay active but stopped competing for several years.

Between 2012 and 2017, I had my three children. Life was busy and hectic, and I would get out to run as often as I could, most often pushing the running stroller. After every pregnancy, I would set a running goal to help myself get back into shape and maintain my sanity while the kids were little. When my first born, my son, was a year old, my husband and I began weekend getaways where I would run a marathon. That year, in 2014, we went to Traverse City and I surprised myself and ran 2:50. We have continued this tradition and I just completed my 21st marathon.

Q: This is your first year competing on the Chicago Racing Circuit, and you've made a big impact. What motivated you to chase a Circuit championship?

A: Thanks! I have run a few Circuit races over the years, but I have never completed the full Circuit. This year the Circuit was really important for me because it helped me set smaller goals in a quest to achieve a long-term marathon goal. I set out to improve my speed and times at a range of shorter distances and the Circuit was perfect for targeting different lengths.

Q: What is your favorite part about the Circuit competition?

A: The community of people that support and compete in the Circuit are amazing. I enjoyed trying new races and going outside of my comfort zone. I have not run a mile race since college, and to race on a track again for such a short distance felt intimidating but it was such a thrill.

Q: What does running mean to you?

A: Running for me means maintaining balance and having time to myself. Throughout changes and different seasons of life, running has been a consistent way to ground myself and stay present in the moment. I love the feeling of moving my body and the exhilaration I feel after a good run or race.

Q: Describe your most memorable Circuit race experience.

A: The Elmhurst 4 on the 4th was the most memorable because it is in my hometown and I know many people there, so it’s extra motivation to run fast. It is such a well run race. I also like living close and warming up from my house. The Chicago Marathon was super special as it was the first time that I felt good running Chicago and I qualified for the Olympic Trials.

Q: What advice would you offer runners who have taken time off from competition, but want to get back into racing?

A: Consistency and focusing on a short-term goal to get yourself going, but not overwhelmed. When my kids were little or if I was coming back after a pregnancy, the goal was to first just get out of the house, and second do a movement that felt good that day. The stronger you are in general is going to be applicable to running and racing. In the last couple years, especially as I have gotten older, I think strength training and yoga help a lot when building fitness. Lastly, for me, it is important to try not to get caught up in comparisons to others or previous versions of myself. I do my best to practice gratitude and to stay zoned in on the present, particularly that I am healthy and can still do what I love.

Q: Anyone you would like to thank or give kudos to that has helped you on your running journey?

A: My mom, Nancy, who has always recognized my need to run and never questions if I ask for help or support. My husband, Justin, though not a runner, has grown to enjoy the sport and will support and cheer me on anywhere I want to go race. My dad, John, who was my biggest fan, and I know how proud he would be of me and my perseverance. My kids, my entire family, and my close friends, as they are a huge source of motivation for continuing my journey.