This profile of Katie Sin, author of Marin’s Magic Cheer, is part of Street Meet, FLEETSTREET’s series where we meet up with trailblazers and thought leaders to deliver unique insight and inspiration into issues we all care about.
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Marin’s Magic Cheer author says, you’ve got this!
As a lifelong runner and former contributor to FLEETSTREET, Katie Sin knows a thing or two about motivation and going the distance. She’s written about the small ways to challenge your fear and fitness, from running a marathon when pregnant to learning how to dance (and perform for the first time ever (links below). And her most latest writing assignment is: Marin’s Magic Cheer. It’s a children’s book that’s just as much for parents as it is for the kiddos, as it follows race day from a little one cheering on mom. We connected with the rockstar mom and racer to talk about, of course, her new book, of course, running and how she’s staying motivated.
Three moms share their at-home workouts – and how the heck they found the time.
FLEETSTREET: What inspired you to become a book author?
Katie Sin: I’ve always had a passion for writing, but the inspiration for this book came during my maternity leave with my second child. I was surrounded by incredible women who normalized running through pregnancy and postpartum. Their advice and encouragement gave me confidence in my own choices as a parent. I wanted to create something that celebrated them, and let them know that what they’re doing isn’t selfish and they’re strong and healthy role models for their kids. This book is my way of shining a light on their resilience and inspiring more moms to go after what they want.
What I learned running the Boston Marathon at 7 months pregnant.
FS: What can adults take away from your book?
KS: I hope families realize that cheering on strangers at a race can be an incredibly fun and meaningful activity. It’s free, it builds a sense of community and it’s a great way for lively kids to burn off some energy. A simple act of encouragement – a cheer, a funny sign or a high-five – can go a long way to lift someone up and help them keep going.
8 Toronto runners on getting race-ready.
FS: Which is harder: running or writing a book?
KS: Both are hard in – different ways. With running, the challenge is having the discipline to get out the door, especially on tough days. And then there’s pushing yourself to your physical limits during a speed workout or a muggy long run. The difficulty is in the moment – when you have to fight through your discomfort.
On the other hand, writing a rhyming children’s book was a different kind of challenge. I pored over finding the right balance between language that resonated with runners and language that was age-appropriate for young readers. Every single word is intentional and concise, which made the process both rewarding and painstaking. But in both situations, I would end up asking myself, “Have I done enough?”
FS: What makes running inspiring for you?
KS: I love the creativity in different racing formats that make running more inclusive for many types of goals that go beyond chasing a PB (personal best). Last year, I ran MERIThon, Race Against Time and the Dino Run with my kids. Planning matching outfits, strategizing and getting my kids excited about the race was part of the fun of the whole race experience.
How to survive your first marathon: 5 runners answer your FAQs.
FS: How do you keep motivated through the downs? How do the highs keep you in perspective?
KS: Before kids, I wanted to hit my goals in just one season of intense training. But now that I’m balancing running and raising two very sweet but very energetic kids, I take the long view. I’m more patient and realistic in setting my goals. So, when I miss a run to take care of a sick kid or need to rearrange my runs to accommodate family schedule changes, I don’t feel derailed. I remind myself that consistency over time is what really matters. My goal is to one day win a race in my age group. So, if I stick with running long enough, the competition will thin out and improve my chances.
“The hardest thing I’ve ever done” – what to expect at your first triathlon.
FS: What’s your proudest running moment?
KS: Training for a half marathon and hitting a personal best post-baby was a huge accomplishment for me. My husband supported my decision to delay starting a family until I achieved my marathon PB, which I achieved at the Erie Marathon. After having my son in 2019, I wanted to prove to myself that I could come back even stronger.
I’m proud of my commitment to my training and thankful for the payoff, which is never guaranteed. But I was also incredibly lucky to have a supportive family who helped with childcare, so I could focus on training.
Meet the Wild Bruce Chase, the Toronto Team of female trail-blazers.
Book author Katie Sin’s favourite things:
“Every chapter leaves you in awe of what the human body and mind are capable of doing.”
Book: Endure: Mind, Body, and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance (Harper Audio, 2018), by Alex Hutchinson
“I don’t need to adjust the waistband during my runs and my phone stays snug in my pocket.”
Running shorts: Fast and Free High-Rise
“It’s lightweight and doesn’t feel greasy, which is key since I start sweating almost immediately.”
Sunscreen: Aveeno Protect & Hydrate Moisturizing Sunscreen
“I’m on my 10th pair!”
Race day and practic running shoes: Saucony Guide 18
“My fave sports bra.”
Sports bra: Nike Swoosh Medium Support
“Since moving out of Toronto, it’s been hard to stay connected with my running friends in the city. This has bridged the gap and lets me cheer them on, share kudos and stay part of the community even when I’m not running with them in person. It also keeps me competitive, especially when it comes to chasing the Local Legend crown for segments.”
Running app: Strava