About Quest Endurance
Quest Endurance started out of the passion of Mary Carter, to continue helping runners discover their full abilities and pursue their goals. Life is full of hills and valleys and training can feel the same, but the beauty is that we are on this quest together. Through personalized, one-on-one coaching from a certified coach, Quest Endurance is helping athletes take the guesswork out of their training by providing a tailored approach for every athlete. This specialized program is offered to both local and remote athletes.
Whether you aspire to set a new personal record at any distance, race your first 5k, or improve your overall fitness, Quest Endurance is here to help you reach your goals confidently. With so many paths that athletes can take toward their endurance goals, we help craft an approach based on each athlete’s fitness and endurance objectives, proving success at milestones along the training journey. Our mission is to keep athletes consistently improving their performance, health, and balanced lifestyle on the way to their finish line.
Meet Mary Carter
Mary Carter brings a vibrant energy and a contagious smile to her work as a running and endurance coach. Known for her warmth and enthusiasm, she offers athletes the kind of encouragement they crave as they cross the finish line.
Mary’s love for the sport began during the running boom in the 70’s when she was a high school athlete. She had the unique opportunity to watch Olympic hopefuls run in Houston’s iconic Astrodome, which ignited a deep connection to running that continues to fuel her involvement in the running community today.
Mary’s own running journey spans 5k, 5-mile, 10k, half marathon, and marathon distances. Through life’s challenges, Mary’s own journey with running has been a quest in itself. Mary strives to find answers when there feel like none, and she has the mindset that quitting is never an option. This tenacity drives her approach to coaching—helping athletes push through obstacles and reach their full potential.
In 2012, Mary transitioned from coaching on a volunteer basis to becoming a professional and certified coach. She works with a diverse range of runners, from beginners to aspiring Boston qualifiers, guiding them one run at a time.
Mary is passionate about coaching because of the joy she finds in watching runners grow and succeed. With her experience in group programs and clubs, she recognizes the need to also include an individualized approach.
This quest for growth and continuous improvement is reflected in Quest Endurance. Mary has had the privilege of coaching athletes from all over the United States and abroad, including in England and is eager to keep expanding her work with new athletes.Certified as a RRCA Level I Distance Coach in 2012.
Specializations:
McMillan Running Coach, 2025
Jack Daniels VDOT Endurance Coach, 2020
Lydiard Level II Coach, 2020
USATF Cross Country Specialist, 2019
RRCA Level II Distance Coach, 2017
RRCA Level I Distance Coach, 2012
USATF Level I, 2012
Experience:
Professional, Certified Coach, since 2012
Quest Endurance Coaching, Founder and Owner, 7 years
Volunteer Youth Coach, 7 years
Fleet Feet's No Boundaries Program Coach, 1 year
Team in Train Coach, 1 year
Coaching Fee Includes:
Access to coach via text + email + cell
Goal planning
Training Peaks account