Coach Denise Leading by Example on the Road to 13.1
When Coach Denise Dorantes first started running, it wasn't for a finish line medal or a personal record. It was about staying active and sane through the long winters of Montana. As a student at Montana State University, Denise discovered running as a practical, indoor way to move her body and get her heart rate up during those snowy, nine-month seasons. Finding something active she could do indoors made a huge difference for her during those long winters.
Fast forward a few years, and Denise is now a coach at McHone Performance Training, where she reconnected with running through community and encouragement. It was Coach Steven who nudged her back into it, encouraging her to sign up for a local 5K. That experience rekindled her interest, and she hasn’t stopped running since.
That small step back into running sparked something bigger. Denise found herself enjoying not just the act of running, but the challenge of it. She noticed how it pushed her physically and mentally. Not every run felt amazing, but the satisfaction of hitting her stride or seeing progress in pace and distance kept her coming back.
After building consistency and confidence, Denise set her sights on something bigger: a 10-mile race called the Flying Squirrel. That experience opened the door to her next milestone. Curious about what it would feel like to train for a longer race, she signed up for the Black Bear Half Marathon and committed to a training plan.
Coach Denise trained intentionally, showing up for the process with the same focus she brings to her work at MPT. On race day, the Black Bear Half Marathon offered a few surprises (including a double loop she didn’t expect), but the payoff was worth it. It was a beautiful day, she felt strong, and she hit her goal time.
Now, with her first half marathon behind her, Denise is already thinking ahead. The Appalachian Trilogy caught her attention, and she’s seriously considering tackling more half marathons to complete it.
Leading by Example, One Goal at a Time
Coach Denise's journey reflects what so many MPT athletes experience: the power of small starts, the importance of encouragement, and the growth that happens when you stick with the process. It’s not about perfection. It’s about progress, consistency, and discovering new possibilities along the way.
Whether you're training for your first 5K, coming back from a long break, or eyeing a big race goal, Denise's story is proof that you're capable of more than you think.
What’s Next
You might just spot Coach Denise at the Jump Off Rock Half Marathon next spring, chasing down the Appalachian Trilogy. If you're curious about training for your own race, don’t be surprised if she encourages you to sign up.
After all, that’s how her story restarted, too.
Interested in training for your next adventure?
Ask Coach Denise or any of the MPT team about strength and conditioning programs to support your running goals.
