Hometown

Davenport, IA

Current P.R.

3:25 which was an attempt at Boston (I needed 3:10)

Where were you born?

Davenport, IA

Number of marathons

12

Birthday

May 14

Favorite marathon

Madison, WI

Typical pace

8:00 min/mile

Favorite running music

On long runs I listen to books on tape. For speed workouts I listen to anything fast (Red Hot Chili Peppers, Rolling Stones, anything to get the blood moving)

Occupation

Retail Furniture Management

Favorite running food

On ultras, nothing beats flat beer.

Any hobbies?

Triathlons and Marathon Pacing

Who do you train with?

I train with no one but my own thoughts…..

Favorite book, what are you reading now?

Born to Run, a look into ultra running and new trends.

A quotation you like…

The greatest pleasure in life, is doing the things people say we cannot do.
-- Walter Bagehot

Personal goals

Finish Western States 100

Why do you run?

About 5 years ago I was 20 years old, inactive, out of shape, and lazy. While drinking in a dorm room some friends and I watched some marathon coverage on ESPN. I mentioned that it would be fun to try that. One of my friends said that I could never finish anything like that. 12 marathons, 6 Ultras and countless triathlons later and I haven’t looked back yet.

Describe your best marathon memory.

During the 2008 Ironman Wisconsin I didn’t plan properly to be running at night time during the rain. I got so cold and beat up that I don’t remember anything after mile 20. I know I finished, and that’s all I need to remember.

Why do you pace?

During my first marathon I was “dragged” through the last few miles by a 4:30 minute pacer. I’m not sure how I would have done if he hadn’t been there. Pacing is my way of helping people that were in my shoes achieve their racing goals.

Tell us your best pacing experience.

Last year my pace captain’s wife ran in my pace group. It was a lot of pressure, but even though she had to drop down to a slower group she wrote me a great thank you that was really appreciated.

Why should someone run in your pace group?

I don’t shut up. I’ll talk and talk and talk all 4 hours and 5 minutes of the race. If it starts to hurt, just give me a topic and before you know it your mind will be some place else. (Even if all you can think about is that I need to shut up)

Any tips for runners about to join your group?

Know your body. Set your goals realistic and be honest when the group discusses how we are feeling. The goal is to finish a marathon and staying aware of your own body is the best way to do that.

Anything else you’d like to share?

What philanthropic activities do you have?

I was an Eagle Scout in my youth and give my time and financial support to local troops to see young boys succeed.