Miran McCash balances being a mom with running coach endeavors that take her from the high school track to the Seattle running community. She shares what inspires her most about coaching and her recommendations for running in Seattle.

Immersed in the Seattle running community, Miran McCash coaches runners of all levels to reach their potential.

She’s a high school physical education and health teacher and head coach for the cross country and track teams. McCash also co-owns a coaching business called ANA Coaching LLC and co-leads Club Seattle Runners Division (CSRD).

Oh yeah, and she’s also a mom!

McCash wants her dedication to teaching, coaching, and building an inclusive running community to provide a powerful example for her daughter. She notes, “I am hoping my daughter sees what I do to inspire her to be independent and [know that] she can do whatever she puts her mind to.”

McCash says she’s inspired by seeing how her runners physically and mentally progress throughout their training. Despite her busy schedule, it’s the people in the Seattle running community who continue to motivate her through training days and group runs.

Below, Miran McCash shares the story behind CSRD, her greatest accomplishment as a runner, and her route recommendations in Seattle and beyond.

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How did CSRD get started?

In February 2017, I founded CSRD with Ashley and David. We all met as members of Nike Run Club Seattle. CSRD is a space for runners of all ethnicities, ages, and athletic abilities to feel accepted and visible.

While CSRD draws “fast runners,” ranging from former Division I collegiate athletes to ultrarunners, those learning the ropes of the sport make up a large percentage of the group. People are coming out into our sport as an adult, or who have never been part of group running as an adult. Our space is for people to come together with no expectations, just this community and camaraderie that is welcoming for everyone.

Follow CSRD on Instagram.

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What do you love about running, and what accomplishment are you most proud of?

I love the community running brings. I have met so many people all across the nation just from running. It brings a sense of belonging.

My most proud accomplishment is becoming a mother runner. It is a job in itself but I keep getting out there to show my daughter that she can do anything when it comes down to something you love.

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What’s your favorite aspect of running in Seattle, and what’s one route you recommend?

The trees, the greenery, the access to trails all over the city. There is always something to look at, whether that is the water, Mt. Rainier, or beautiful cherry blossoms. There is something for every season in Seattle.

I love Seward Park and Lake Washington Boulevard. It is a 2.5-mile loop in the park, and you can continue onto Lake Washington Boulevard to make it a 20-mile run. It is beautiful! You have a full view of Mt. Rainier on the loop. There is a park at the end … if you are jogging [with a stroller], kids can go [to the park] at the end of your run.

Parking is a bit tough, especially on a sunny day but there is plenty of street parking a block up.

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Where do you recommend for a post-run beverage or meal after a run in Seattle?

For a post-run coffee, Caffe Vita is in Seward Park. There is also Chuck’s Hop Shop across the street [for] beer on tap and smash burgers. It is a great place to hang out after a sweaty run.

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Which city outside of Seattle is your favorite to visit and run?

I love running in Spokane, Washington. I lived there for four years. The Centennial Trail was a great trail to get all my long runs in. It goes right through the city, and Riverfront Park is amazing. Running in the South Hill neighborhood was a usual every week. Running through Manito Park when the lilacs are out and when Duncan Gardens is blooming is beautiful.

Looking for more places to run in Spokane? Check out the City Guide: Running in Spokane, Washington.

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