For Newmarket author Mary Sanders, the past year has been another incredible journey after the release of her memoir.
The former U.S. Olympian launched her book 9 Lives by 35 one year ago at Newmarket’s Old Town Hall. Since then, Sanders said she has journeyed with her book to signings and events, and it has been “an incredible experience” to see the its impact.
“It’s been very therapeutic getting my story out there and just hearing the impact it has had on some people in a positive way — to chase their dreams and constantly reinvent themselves,” she said.
Sanders is hosting a celebration event at the lobby of the Postmark Hotel on Main Street Newmarket on Nov. 23, with a meet and greet, book signing and refreshments.
The book chronicles Sanders's life, going from gymnast to Cirque du Soleil acrobat to entertainment executive. Sanders is also a mother of two children.
Sanders said publishing the book helped give her more confidence.
“I had a lot of doubts in myself, a lot of insecurity, like many women do,” she said, adding she had worries that she may have revealed too much in the book. “It’s been super inspiring and reassuring that writing the book was the right thing.”
The success has inspired her to take on yet another pursuit, she said. Now, she is singing and songwriting, having already released a few songs and is planning to release a Christmas one, too.
“Performing has always been my passion,” she said. “I love performing, I love music … I’ve gone down the acting route a little bit, but it doesn’t give me that thrill of life performance.”
The author is also now working on a children's book she hopes to release next year, she said.
Newmarket was a natural place to host a celebration like this, Sanders said.
“I live in Newmarket, I love Newmarket,” she said. “I just always love hearing from people in person ... I just love any opportunity to meet anyone who has taken any interest in my story.”
The event will run at The Postmark Hotel on Main Street on Nov. 23 from 2 to 4 p.m.
