Where are you from?

Pittsburgh, Pa

Current P.R.

3:17 (York 2020).

Typical pace

7:50-8:00

Number of marathons

8 Fulls, 1 ultra

Occupation

Registered Nurse

Favorite marathon

I mean, it just has to be Pittsburgh for the atmosphere, but I really did like Philly for the time of year. I am a cool/cold weather runner and what is not to like about being the Sunday before Thanksgiving to get a head start on some calorie burn!

Hobbies

Other than running? I love nature and being outside.  I am an avid snowboarder and lover of 80s music. I love to travel, especially to the Caribbean and Maine.  I am a self-proclaimed beach bum. I dabble in pretty much every sport from basketball to golf (although my skill level in golf is borderline hilarious).

Favorite Running Food

I pretty much eat salad, broccoli, and chicken 365 days of the year but running specific, I love a nice sirloin steak race eve, but then there is pizza night on race eve-eve.  Anything sweet would suffice as well, especially pumpkin pie before a fall marathonJ Oh, and stinger waffles!

What are you reading now?

Does People magazine count?

Who do you train with?

I have a great group of running friends that I personally call my “crew.” I have a few individuals I run with once a week, including my black Labrador, Mylla.  I love my solitary runs in North Park, which is my second home.

Personal goals

I am going for a BQ baby!  And life goals: I want to travel as much as I can! I live for adventure. Snowboarding in the Swiss Alps would be like I died and went to heaven!

A quotation you like…

“When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” –Billy Ocean  (as I said, I love the 80s).

Describe your best marathon memory.

Getting the banana.

Why do you pace?

Because Pacer Mike (pink bunny suit) told me to!

Why should someone run in your pace group?

Because I’m the Dragun Lady, Mighty Michelle!  Also known by some as a “Firecracker” because I am spunky and full of energy.  I love to laugh, enjoy nature and my surroundings (I often point out beautiful scenery or even a funny looking tree), and it is exciting to see others conquer their goals!

Any tips for runners about to join your group?

We can discuss strategy in the beginning at the start line and most importantly…… LETS HAVE FUN!

Anything else you’d like to share?

If I talk too much just tell me to put a sock in it!

What philanthropic activities do you have?

Being a nurse is pretty philanthropic.  I also like to pick up trash if I see it out in nature. Do not Litter!