Where are you from?

Johnson City, TN

Current P.R.

3:09

Typical pace

Mostly 8-9 minutes/mile, some faster, some slower

Number of marathons

50+

Occupation

Computer Systems Manager

Favorite marathon

Boston

Hobbies

Running, travel, reading, being dad to our furkids.

Favorite Running Food

Before – oatmeal; During – Hammer or PowerBar gels; After – pizza or a cheeseburger

What are you reading now?

Probably Runner’s World or Running Journal

Who do you train with?

Myself a lot, plus some with the Tri-Cities Turtles

Personal goals

My current goal is to run a marathon in each of the 50 states and have a good time along the way.

A quotation you like…

“If you run, you are a runner. It doesn't matter how fast or how far. It doesn't matter if today is your first day or if you've been running for twenty years. There is no test to pass, no license to earn, no membership card to get. You just run.”

― John Bingham

Why do you run?

In 2008 I was attending a local festival when I witnessed a mass of people running toward me, then turning and speeding away.  At that moment it was as though I heard a voice telling me that I was to become a runner.  About a month later I ran my first race, The Race for the Cure, in honor of my mother a two time cancer survivor.

Describe your best marathon memory.

I’ve got several – finishing my first marathon, my current PR finish, plus some that relate to pacing or being paced.  Two of those where I ran with a pace group stand out.  7 Bridges in 2011 was my third marathon and first running with a pace group.  It was so amazing having the pacer support and encouragement me along the way.  Then in 2012 running Kiawah with the pace group for my first BQ.  Those guys are part of why I pace today… and, now I know the other side.  The feeling I get as a pacer when someone comes up after a race and says “Thank You” – it’s just incredible!

Why do you pace?

I pace as a way to give something back to the running community and to honor the pacers who have helped me reach my own personal running goals.

Tell us your best pacing experience.

The first thing that comes to mind was pacing a woman who had tried multiple times to qualify for Boston, but hadn’t ever made it.  Being there to help her and keep her on track on the day she finally succeeded was great – and what a smile she had when she crossed the finish line.

Why should someone run in your pace group?

Because I truly desire to see them do their best and will do whatever I can to help them along the way.

Any tips for runners about to join your group?

First and foremost, have a good time while trying to run your goal time.  Secondly, trust your training.  And, finally, be thankful for the opportunity that is ahead.

What philanthropic activities do you have?

My wife and I support a number of local organizations, her favorite being the animal shelter.  I have raised funds for national charitable organizations through running, I also volunteer at races and help coach new runners in C25K groups.