Q: Tell me a little bit about yourself. (Where you’re from, what you’re doing now…etc)
A: I’m from Dallas Texas. Traveled north for the mountains after graduating from Texas A&M. Lived in Montana and South Dakota for the last 26 years. I have been in rapid city for 19 years working as a physical therapist.
Q: How long have you been running and how did you get started?
A: I started running 15 years ago after years of rehabbing from soccer related knee injuries. After realizing I would not be able to continue to play soccer I started running. 2 miles was my first successful run, which led me on an amazing journey of Ironman triathlons and ultra marathons.
Q: Would you rather run with a group or alone?
A: I like group runs for long distance and social days. I like running alone for my speed work and when I have pace goals.
Q: Do you prefer roads or trails?
A: I like running trails for the adventure, scenery, and being out in the middle of nowhere. I like running roads for speed, seeing new cities, and being able to shut my mind off without the worry of face planting on a trail.
Q: What is your favorite distance or race?
A: My favorite distance on the road is a half marathon. You can push hard, not worry about fueling, and get done in time to enjoy the rest of the day. My favorite distance on the trail is a 50k. You have the accomplishment of an ultra but can walk the next day.
Q: How do you stay motivated when you don’t want to run?
A: I sign up for races and surround myself with runners.
Q: If I didn’t run I’d ………..
A: If I didn’t run I would still swim and bike.
Q: What do you find to be the most rewarding thing about running?
A: Running challenges my mind, body, and soul. Running gives me the confidence to do anything in life. Running with groups and participating in races has made life long friendships.
Q: What is your favorite running memory?
A: My favorite running memories have been pacing and crewing friends and fellow runners to help them achieve their goals.
Q: What’s the most valuable lesson you have learned from running?
A: Valuable lessons I have learned from running is there is always someone slower and faster than you. Run the best you can that day. Everyone has a plan until the trail punches you in stomach. Have in mind 3 options to get you out of any situation. Listen to your body. Some days you have to change your training plan or change your race strategy in the middle of a race. Don’t give up.
Q: What are your running goals for the future?
A: My future running goal is to complete the Big Horn 100 mile trail race this June.
Q: Who inspires you most?
A: Dan Bjerke. At 74 years young he continues to run marathons, leader of the running community, and inspires us all to continue our passions.
Q: What advice do you have for new runners?
A: My advice for new runners is to set small achievable goals and then when you have found a passion for running do whatever others think is impossible.