Where are you from?

Roanoke, VA

Current P.R.

2:58:48

Typical pace

7:19

Number of marathons

26, including 20 different states

Occupation

Active duty JAG officer, US Army

Favorite marathon

Steamtown -- support on course

Delaware -- organization

Boston – race experience

Hobbies

Family time, Running, Reading

Favorite Running Food

Slice of bread  with Honey before; Chocolate Gu during; Ice Cream and block cheese after

What are you reading now?

The Hatfields and the McCoys by Otis K. Rice

Who do you train with?

Myself

Personal goals

Run a marathon in each of the 50 states and DC.  I am at 16 right now.

A quotation you like…

"To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift." ~ Steve Prefontaine

Why do you run?

I run for the challenge and the satisfaction.  I never think as clearly as when I run long distances.  When finishing is your priority, many life problems that cross your mind start to seem much easier decisions.

Describe your best marathon memory.

1)  Seeing the sunrise in the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon was beautiful.  Seems like the flat lands allow more colors in the sky.

2)  I met a physicist at mile 9 of in the Dallas White Rock Marathon.  He explained the theory of relativity to me.  Though our talk seemed like a brief time, we were at mile 15 before I knew it. 

3)  I see kids along the course at most marathons holding out their hands or a cup of water.  Seeing their smiles after I give them a high five feels great.

Why do you pace?

I enjoy motivating others to achieve their goals and do their best.  Sometimes you just need someone to believe in you.

Tell us your best pacing experience.

Runners that qualified for Boston thanked me.  Seeing their smiles when I reminded them that they are the ones that ran the miles and achieved their goals was all the reward that I needed. 

Why should someone run in your pace group?

If you are talkative, I will chat with you, tell stories, and keep your mind from dwelling on the miles and how you feel.

If you are not talkative, you will not have to worry about time or do the math.  You will meet your goal if you stick with us, and the group will propel you forward.

Any tips for runners about to join your group?

Focus on getting to 20 miles.  Believe in yourself for the last 6.2 miles.

Anything else you’d like to share?

When my oldest son was 3 (now 6), I ran his first one-mile race with him.  He finished in 16:48.  He was so happy to make me proud, and I was proud that he strives for achievement. 

What philanthropic activities do you have?

Pro bono legal aid