From Dreams to Medals - Short Film
For Molly Seidel, it's always just been running. A native Wisconsinite, decorated high school running athlete, four-time national champion at Notre Dame, and bronze medalist at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics in the marathon event, Molly's career is a testament to dedication and resilience. With the Chicago Marathon on the horizon and her sights set on the upcoming U.S. Olympic Trials, Molly reminds us how important the balance of physical & mental training is and how crucial it is to listen to your body by working with it, not against it.
Co-Produced by KT Tape and Roo Smith (Me!)
Creative Direction and Edit by Roo Smith
Camera Operating + Stills by Elliot Whitehead
Navigating Challenges with Heart and Joy in the Running Journey…
In the world of professional running, where records, podiums, and accolades often dominate the spotlight, Molly Seidel's journey stands out as a shining example of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of finding joy in the midst of challenges. As she prepares for the Chicago Marathon and the upcoming Olympic Trials, Seidel's deeply rooted connection to her past, her love for training, and her unwavering bond with her hometown of Wisconsin continue to shape her approach to the races that lie ahead.
A Homecoming that Shaped a Journey
Seidel's childhood was woven with memories of sailing alongside her family in the calm waters of her home state, Wisconsin. Those moments on the water were more than just leisurely outings; they sowed the seeds of her adventurous spirit and a profound connection to the natural world. It was here that Seidel's outlook on life and racing began to take shape, fostering a deep appreciation for challenges and instilling a love for the journey itself, regardless of the destination.
The Joy of Training Close to Heart
As the Chicago Marathon and Olympic Trials draw near, Seidel's training regimen takes on a deeply personal touch. The familiar streets and tranquil landscapes of her hometown provide the canvas for her training journey, where each step resonates with purpose and heart. It's the joy of running on familiar paths, the comfort of solitude, and the serenity of the surroundings that allow her to tap into the very essence of her love for the sport.
The training process for Seidel is not a mere checklist of exercises but a symphony of emotions, dedication, and self-discovery. It's about more than just building physical strength; it's about nurturing the soul, finding peace, and experiencing the sheer exhilaration of movement.
Sailing Lessons in Racing
Seidel's sailing experiences have left an indelible mark on her racing philosophy. The adaptability and resilience she learned from sailing come to life on the track, as she gracefully navigates the currents of competitive running. Just as she once sailed uncharted waters, she now races with a heart open to the unpredictable, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.
Her racing mindset is a testament to her journey as a sailor—weathering storms, adjusting to shifting winds, and finding the courage to explore new horizons. The parallel between sailing and running serves as a reminder that the skills and lessons learned in one aspect of life can beautifully harmonize with another.
Wisconsin's Warm Embrace
Amidst the whirlwind of her athletic pursuits, Seidel finds solace and strength in her Wisconsin roots. Returning to her hometown offers a chance to reset, recharge, and reconnect with the people and places that have shaped her. It's a homecoming that transcends geography; it's a sanctuary for the soul. The rolling hills and familiar faces are a comforting reminder that, no matter how fast-paced life may become, there's always a place to return to, where love and support flow abundantly.
As Seidel steps onto the starting line of the Chicago Marathon and the Olympic Trials, her journey echoes with the melody of heart and perseverance. Her story is a poignant reminder that the true essence of running lies not only in the medals won or the records broken, but in the moments of introspection, the bonds formed, and the joy discovered along the way. With every stride, Molly Seidel encapsulates the spirit of embracing challenges with grace, cherishing the journey, and finding the heartbeat of running in the quiet moments of the soul.
Want to Work Together?
Roo is a commercial/documentary filmmaker and photographer based in Boulder, Colorado but travels all around the world for his filmmaking career. He has produced films for Outside Magazine in Ireland, camera operated for Netflix in the Rocky Mountain West, photographed among indigenous communities in Peru and Ecuador, directed videos with professional climbers in Mexico and has received notable recognition in his hometown of Orcas Island in Washington State for his work telling uplifting stories in the outdoor space.
Let’s chat - reach out below and I’ll respond in the next 24-48 hours!