My profession…I'm a can-stacker. I work night crew for Ralphs. Been in this business for about 28 years.
I started running in…1979. My old high school girlfriend called me one day and said, in a high, whiny voice, "Will you run this 10k with me?" It was the KNBC Peacock 10k at Griffith Park. They didn't even offer a 5k! I had NEVER run a race, or any type of distance, in my life. Of course, like any stupid high school guy, I said yes. I ran 49 minutes and change. And I was hooked! Went back the next year and ran a 41 something. Been running off and on ever since.
My favorite spot to be active…is anywhere I can go camping and sit around a campfire with my cold beer and a bottle of Jameson Irish Whiskey. I especially love the Lake Tahoe area. Also backpacked into the Grand Canyon to Havasu Falls and Phantom Ranch. Took a rock climbing course at Joshua Tree. Climbed to the top of Mt. Lassen in a driving rain. Always up for a challenge! So much more to do.
My running experience with AREC has been…better than I hoped for. I joined to meet like-minded active people. I have not been disappointed. I really enjoy the different people who come out to the Wednesday night runs and the Saturday trail runs. You all inspire me to do better!
I’ve been with AREC...since about April, 2005.
The best thing about AREC is…I know it’s been said, but, THE PEOPLE! Truly, you all are a great group of people. I enjoy the group on so many different levels.
I run because…I need to stay ahead of my love for In-N-Out burgers! And I won't mention the beer! And it feeds me intrinsically.
When I’m not running I…keep the staff at Starbucks busy. I love to sit with my Americano and read and people watch. I'm a voracious reader. ALWAYS have a book with me to read. Information is power! I don't waste my time with TV. Actually, the only thing I do watch is...NASCAR! Yep! I'm a redneck. And proud of it!
My favorite running surface is…trails. I grew up in Chino Hills. My family moved there in 1968 when there were only dairies and the prison. I cut my running teeth on dirt. Currently I'm training for the Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon in October. I'm going to try to qualify for Boston with my time at this race. Wish me luck!
My pre-race meal is…usually a bagel and my Americano. Gotta have that caffeine.
After a race I treat myself to…something greasy and sinful.
My goal is…to continue to run and feel competitive in every age group I fall in to.
I’m inspired by…any person I see doing something to stay active. I especially love to see people who don't normally look like the ideal runner out doing a run. It isn't about speed. Nike got it right when they coined the phrase, "Just do it." To hell with anyone who may laugh or sneer or snicker. JUST DO IT!
The best advice I ever got was…zip up your fly.
I want to improve in…the latter parts of my races. I've had cramping issues, usually about 12 miles--definitely no fun. After nearly 30 years of running, you would think I'd learn.
I love…the quiet of early mornings.
I hate…walking through spider webs.
I run marathons because…I love to punish myself. Actually, I've only run 2. The first was the Long Beach Marathon in 1987. It took me 18 years to do another. I did the Rock ‘n’ Roll in Phoenix in 2005. I beat my old time by 21 minutes. I guess I learned something.
I wish…I was debt free!
To all…I really enjoy running with you all. I wish I were more of a social butterfly. I would know more of you!