Where are you from?

St. Louis (Ballwin to be exact)

Current P.R.

Half 1:37; Full 3:36:48 at Big Sur '12

Typical pace

8 min miles for medium to long runs

Number of marathons

7

Occupation

Direct Support Professional for people with disabilities.

Favorite marathon

Marine Corp but I prefer the smaller races.

Hobbies

Aside from running of course. Traveling, golfing, biking, really anything outdoors. Going to concerts.  Cooking and finding new restaurants.

Favorite Running Food

Sweet Potato

What are you reading now?

Just finished the Steve Jobs bio. Started reading a book on salesman tips.

Who do you train with?

Mostly the Missouri Running Company.  Sometimes my uncles.

Personal goals

Go back to school and get my masters.  Buy a home.

A quotation you like…

I believe that everyone is born with talent…some just have to look harder than others.

Why do you run?

The list is never ending. Makes me happy. Even after a bad run I still feel better about myself.  Improves my quality of life.  The easiest way for me to stay in shape.  I can eat more than most. Cures stress.  Meet new friends and create memories.  Forms and bond with the people you run with.  See places I otherwise never would have seen.  Keeps me sane.  Challenge myself.  See how much pain I can endure.  Push the limit.  Helps me realize I’m capable of much more than I think. 

Describe your best marathon memory.

There are several, but one that sticks out is in the Chicago marathon in 2010 I threw a chapstick towards a trash can from about 20 feet away and it went in.  I was really excited and several people around me including 2 of my uncles saw me make the shot and laughed and gave me high fives. It was the high moment of the race, especially because it was hot and I ended out having to walk/jog for the last 10 miles after cramping up real bad. 

Why do you pace?

Help others out and get into a rhythm.  Best way to finish strong instead of going out to fast. 

Why should someone run in your pace group?

I have more energy than anyone on the course.  I’ll keep your mind off the pain and keep you focused and able to finish strong.  I love running and it shows.

Any tips for runners about to join your group?

I hope you like someone who is happy and full of energy no matter the weather.  Throw any negative thoughts out the window.  Don’t hold back at the end and do your best and you will have no regrets.

Anything else you’d like to share?

I’m happy and excited to be apart of a pacing team and leading anyone with me to a successful race.  Thank You for the opportunity.

What philanthropic activities do you have?

My job for starters.  I work at a group home with people who have developmental disabilities. I’ve participated as a volunteer for Girls on the Run and the St. Louis International Film Festival.