My profession… postdoctoral research scientist.
I started running in…2003.
My life/sport philosophy…Just Do It!
My favorite spot to be active is…anywhere!
My athletic highlights and the reason I run is…my friend made me. She said let’s train for a marathon. I said okay. (Actually my first response was “How many miles is a marathon?” and my second response was “That seems like a lot of running. I don’t think I can do that.”) And then, we signed up, and the rest is history.
My running experience with AREC has been…truly awesome and motivating.
I’ve been with AREC since… September 2008.
The best thing about AREC is…there are so many things to do with so many great people. I could not ask for a better club.
When I’m not running I…swim and now, I have to started biking more. Otherwise, I’m working or lounging and watching TV or surfing the net.
My favorite running surface is…dry flat roads.
My pre-race meal is…2 Lego Waffles with syrup and whipped cream and a chocolate GU 30 minutes before a race. Before, it used to be a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and a 32 oz. Gatorade.
After a race I treat myself to… anything edible.
My favorite race is…the 2009 Surf City marathon. I was dreading the training; running another 26.2 miles; the thought of hitting the wall…again…after 8 previous marathon attempts; and the unpredictability of the weather. But everything worked in my favor. Perfect weather! An excellent trail running experience with AREC! A fellow runner that continuously challenged me throughout the race. ARECers cheering me on before, during, and after the race. And a first, I did not hit the wall! I’m hoping there’s plenty more where that came from.
My goal is…do whatever and wherever my legs will take me. This year, I’m eyeing a 50k trail run and an Olympic-sized triathlon. I am sure it will not end there. But it’s best to take one step at a time.
My running mantra…is whatever music my iPod decides to play. It guides my pace.
I’m inspired by…every runner that I meet. How much they have achieved and the stories they tell, keeps me motivated.
My best training tip…save it till the end. For almost every training run and race, I put my best foot forward and run the final mile FAST as I can. You know you’re already done. Challenge yourself to the end!
The best advice I ever got was…eat during long runs. I was starving and had lost a lot of energy on these long training runs until I discovered GU.
I want to improve in…a 5k. I realize that I suck in short distances.
If I could run with anyone famous, it would be…I honestly do not want to run with anyone famous. I really enjoy running with the “everyday runner” because I am sure that they have just as many great stories, lessons, and interesting personalities as a famous person.
I love…a good running rival. I am willing to push, if they are willing to do the same.
I hate…nothing. If bad or negative experiences make me angry, I take it out on the road or a swimming pool…and it usually goes away.
I run marathons and half marathons and 10Ks because…I do not like to limit myself from running and giving it my all.
I wish…to run uphill and love it!
My best experience is…meeting new people during a run. There’s always something to learn from others.
To all…thanks for making this club so great! Whenever I attend a run, I am always sure to find a familiar face. I am looking forward to many great runs!