Where are you from?

Dearborn Heights, MI

Current P.R.

2:58:25

Typical pace

3:10-3:25

Number of marathons

21

Occupation

Kindergarten Teacher,  Health and Fitness Consultant at Beachbody

Favorite marathon

Detroit Free Press Marathon

Hobbies

Running, spending time with family, traveling, reading

Favorite Running Food

Peanut Butter and Jelly, Oranges and Bananas, Pro Bars, Chocolate Shakeology, Deep Dish Pizza

What are you reading now?

The Runner’s World Big Book of Marathon and Half-Marathon Training

Who do you train with?

Personal goals

Run a sub 3:00 marathon, qualify for the Boston Marathon

A quotation you like…

“It will hurt.  It will take time.  It will require dedication.  It will require willpower.  You will need to make healthy decisions. It requires sacrifice.  You will need to push your body to its max.  There will be temptation.  But, I promise you, when you reach your goal, it’s worth it”

Why do you run?

I love the balance running provides me in my life.  It keeps me focused and helps me clear my head.   I enjoy the challenge of training and racing. It’s always rewarding to run a PR!

Describe your best marathon memory.

Each marathon I have run has been special to me!  Personally, my best marathon memory was my first marathon in 2006 (Detroit Free Press Marathon).  I ran a sub 3:30 marathon, and I will never forget how I felt! 

Why do you pace?

I really enjoy pacing! It is very rewarding to motivate other runners, help them reach their personal goals and give advice and leadership.  Pacers are mentors and coaches for other marathoners; and I am excited to be part of the experience.

Tell us your best pacing experience.

2013 Glass City Marathon – I ran with a wonderful group of runners and I paced fairly consistently that day. The group was quite large, talkative, motivated, and we had cold, rainy weather.   Even though the conditions were not ideal, I couldn’t have done it without some awesome pacers! 

Why should someone run in your pace group?

You will receive excellent coaching, advice, and leadership by running with my group. I will give motivation, energy, and provide a fun group to run with. I will pace consistently for optimal marathon performance to help you reach your goals.

Any tips for runners about to join your group?

Working in the fitness industry, I have to be motivating, challenging, & intense.  My advice for all marathoners: trust your training, relax, and enjoy race day and the marathon experience. You will be pleasantly surprised. 

Anything else you’d like to share?

My wife and I live in Holland, Michigan.  We are both kindergarten teachers.