What is your favorite distance and why?
The Marathon. You can’t BS your way through it, you can’t run it every weekend, and there’s something special when building towards this milestone. The skill & effort outweighs the luck.
What do you struggle with most in running?
The balance of increasing my mileage and avoiding injury. I had an over training injury when I first began running and have since been conservative in mileage increases.
Do you rotate shoes and if so what is in your current rotation?
I only wear Nike Structures. Started in 2009 when I got the Structure 13 and have stuck with them ever since
Do you have a mantra that you use when you are racing/training?
For each training season, I’ll usually have a list of 3-7 words that I reflect on before, during, and after I run. I’ll journal and write about what these words mean. It’s beautiful to see how the meaning of a word can change over weeks of intentional focus
Do you ever feel unmotivated to train and if so how do you overcome it?
Yes, and these feelings usually percolate in the middle of heavy training. I view these “unmotivated moments” as the fear of doing something big. Once I recognize that, I know I’m on the right path and get back to work.
What is the best thing running has given you?
Community and time. The bonds forged and reinforced through running are held closer to my heart. Running may consume time, but the lessons learned and thoughts pondered during a run gives me my time back, and then some.
What is your favorite race you have participated in and why?
The Taos Up & Over 10k. It was a trail run that started at the base of the Taos Ski Valley in New Mexico, ascended 2,800 ft in 5km to reach a peak altitude of 11,800, and then descended 2,800 ft back to the base in 5km. Besides the challenge, the best part was the support from the other athletes along the way; so much positivity and intensity
How did you get started in running?
During my junior year of high school, there was a 7-week window between my golf and swim season. Instead of devoting more time in the water, I walked onto the high school cross country team halfway through the season. By the end of the season, I was second seed on the team and hooked on the sport.
What is your favorite running workout?
I made this one up based off a swimming workout I did in high school
- 5 x 400 at Half Marathon Pace (Stand still recovery for an equal amount of time)
- 5 x 400 at 10k Pace (Stand still recovery for an equal amount of time)
- 5 x 400 at 5k Pace (Stand still recovery for an equal amount of time)
- 5 x 400 at 3k Pace (Stand still recovery for an equal amount of time)
How many marathons have you run?
7 marathons: 6 stand alone and 1 during an Ironman.
Who is your favorite professional runner?
I’m don’t really have one… I know who the big names are and will read their workouts/books, but I’m not a fanatic for anyone in particular. But if you need one name,Scott Jurek.
What are the craziest race conditions you have had to endure?
The Rocks & Roots 18-mile Trail Run. 38 degrees, pouring rain, constant wind, and lots of mud. The best part: within the first ¼ quarter mile, the course went through a hip-high stream of cold water. Much like Boston 2018 (but on trails), it was the most fun I never want to have again.
Do you have a goal race you haven’t done yet and why do you want to do it?
For running, the Marine Corps Marathon. I’m from the DC area, it was my Dad’s first marathon, and it’s always been enticing. For triathlon, the race on the Big Island
Do you listen to music while you run and if so, what music gets you pumped up for a race?
Only music when warming up for a race. Usually, it’s electronic,alternative rock, or classic rock.
