Where are you from?

Irvine, CA (Living in Arlington, VA)

Current P.R.

3:10:47

Typical pace

7:30

Number of marathons

9

Occupation

International Development Manager

Favorite marathon

Boston Marathon

Hobbies

Favorite Running Food

Gummy Bears

What are you reading now?

1Q84 - Murakami

Who do you train with?

Personal goals

Run a 100 Miler; Re-qualify for Boston; Stay Healthy!

A quotation you like…

“Desire to aspire to inspire.”

Why do you run?

In March 2008, I tipped the scales at 290 pounds. My health was deteriorating and I needed to turn my life around. Running gave me that opportunity and it allowed me to overcome many of my fears and do things that I never thought possible. You can find out more of my story here: http://www.dcroadrunners.org/images/stories/runner_spotlight/runners_world_2010-06_Jeff_le.pdf

Describe your best marathon memory.

I was rounding the corner of my first Marine Corps Marathon finish and all of my friends were there to greet me at the finish line. You never forget the cheering and the energy of the first marathon. To finish the race where I had trained meant the world. After all the hard work, I had transformed into a marathon finisher.

Why do you pace?

I wanted to give back. I had my share of experiences with pacers and the idea of helping other fellow runners achieve their goals was something that drove me.

Tell us your best pacing experience.

Why should someone run in your pace group?

I’m a lot of fun and I’ll help you be patient!

Any tips for runners about to join your group?

The marathon is about have confidence in your training. You did all the hard work to get to the start line. Respect your body, take the beginning miles easy, take in the energy, and then go in the final miles. Negative splits will make for a positive experience.

Anything else you’d like to share?

When we run together, we’ll push and encourage each other. Then we can smile when we cross the finish line together.

What philanthropic activities do you have?

I mentor fellow runners who have had health issues and now run train for marathons.