Brian K.
Next race: Cleveland Marathon – May 21, 2017
Rogue Fact: Brian currently holds the coveted Rogue Racers award for Best Race Pic. Here is his winning pic, we mean come on!!
1. Did/do you always find running enjoyable?
I knew I was always pretty good at it growing up but never enjoyed it until I was a little older. I didn’t like running just to run unless there was a ball or something to chase after.
2. What is your favorite distance?
Probably half marathons its good mix of speed and endurance. Its easier to train for and it is no where near as taxing as a marathon. Trail 50k’s are good too, the atmosphere is totally different than marathons.
3. What do you struggle with most in running?
Early morning running, I know I run better first thing in the morning but I struggle with getting out of bed and having the motivation.
4. Do you remember your first 5k, half marathon and/or marathon time?
Ran my first 5k on a whim in 2009 in 21:19, I went out way too fast but I placed my age group and won a medal, I thought it was pretty rad! Ran my first half in 2010 at Nationwide Children’s in 1:32:18, again went out way to fast running the first 3 miles at a 6 minute pace and was totally spent by mile 10. First marathon was in 2013 at Modesto in California, I ran a 3:26:10
5. What is your advise for someone looking to improve and/or endurance?
2 things. 1: Speed work is the easiest way to improve your race times. 2: Find a running partner/group who is similar pace or slightly better it will help push you and hold you accountable.
6. What is your can’t live without running gear, besides shoes?
Garmin GPS watch, I typically don’t run with much. I try not to carry water much either.
7. Ok shoes, do you rotate? If yes, how many in rotation – explain.
Gosh I have way too many running shoes. I have a pair of super lightweight racing flats for 5k’s. I have 2 different trail shoes for different terrain. I have 2 different road shoes at home that I always rotate between plus a pair at work for when I run on lunch. I also always have at least 1 pair of brand new shoes on stand by in my closet. Mizuno (Sayonara or Hitogami) is my shoe of choice, I try other brands but always end up back with Mizuno.
8. Do you have a mantra that you use when racing or training?
“Embrace the suffering”, during every marathon there is going to be a point when you feel miserable and you need to embrace it while figuring out how to push through it.
9. Do you ever feel unmotivated to train? If so, how do you overcome?
Now and then I feel burnt out and that I need to find the fun in running again. Usually when this happens I will spend more time running trails. Running trails is more relaxing and refreshing to me, something about being alone out in nature helps me find the fun in running again.
10. What is the best thing running has given you?
Friendships, the people in the running community are the friendliest folks possible. I have randomly met total strangers while running and have stayed in contact and shared in camaraderie with them.
Rogue Racers are so lucky to have Brian K on the team. He joined this group with enthusiasm and mixed right in with everyone like he’s been around forever.
