Where are you from?

Warrington PA

Current P.R.

Full Marathon: 3:20:00
Half Marathon: 1:29:47

Typical pace

7:35-9:00

Number of marathons

17 Marathon

27 Half Marathon

Occupation

Retiree

Favorite marathon

Boston Marathon

Hobbies

Table Tennis, Dance and DIY

Favorite Running Food

Gu

What are you reading now?

Comprehensive Mirror in Aid of Governance and books about Medicare，

Who do you train with?

Philadelphia Phire Running Team

Personal goals

My short-term goal is to maintain my current fitness level beyond the age of 70. Another goal is to inspire more young people to take up running and enjoy the health, discipline, and sense of accomplishment that it brings.

A quotation you like…

"If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together."

This quote perfectly reflects my running journey. Running is an individual sport, but the support and friendship of the running community make the journey much more meaningful.

Why do you run?

I started running to lose weight; having achieved that goal and enjoyed the physical and mental health benefits it brings, running has now simply become a part of my life.

Describe your best marathon memory.

My most memorable marathon experience was the Boston Marathon in the fall of 2021. I was 63 years old, and it was only my second marathon.

From the very beginning, spectators lined the streets, cheering loudly and enthusiastically. Many offered water, Vaseline, and words of encouragement. Passing through the famous "Scream Tunnel" was unforgettable.

As I turned onto Boylston Street and saw the finish-line banner in the distance, the cheers from both sides became deafening. In that moment, all my fatigue disappeared. Filled with excitement, I even performed a traditional Chinese dance movement called "Wild Goose Spreading Its Wings，" stretching out my arms to celebrate the moment. I waved to the spectators and jumped with joy as I ran toward the finish line with a big smile on my face.

It felt as if the entire city was celebrating with us. For the first time, I truly understood the unique magic of a major marathon.

The experience was especially meaningful because my first marathon, the Salisbury Marathon in Maryland earlier that year, had been very different. Due to COVID restrictions, the field was small, runners had to keep six feet apart at the start, and there were very few spectators along the course. Boston was the complete opposite—it was my first opportunity to experience the passion, energy, and spirit that make marathon running so special.

Why do you pace?

As a beginner runner, I received tremendous help and encouragement from fellow runners. They supported me throughout my journey, from my first runs to marathon races. Now, I want to give back to the running community by helping others achieve their goals and enjoy the marathon experience.

Tell us your best pacing experience.

I have had many memorable pacing experiences, but two stand out.

The first was at the Jim Thorpe Marathon. During the final one or two miles, one woman in my group was obviously exhausted and breathing heavily. I asked how she was feeling, and she replied, "I'm okay." I told her that if she could still talk, she could still push a little harder.

I encouraged her to stay with me and told her that she didn't need to answer—she only needed to keep running. I kept talking and encouraging her all the way to the finish.

To my surprise, during the final stretch, she found another gear and accelerated toward the finish line, while I maintained my assigned pace. When she saw her result, she was overwhelmed with excitement. She gave me a big hug and told me that she had achieved a personal record by more than five minutes and had qualified for the Boston Marathon.

The second experience was at the Long Island Half Marathon. I led a group of runners at a steady pace throughout the race. Around mile 10, I told them that anyone aiming for a time around 1:38 and still feeling strong could begin to gradually speed up. At miles 11 and 12, I reminded the runners again that if they felt good, it was time to go after their goals, while I needed to maintain the official pace.

After I crossed the finish line and walked into the recovery area, a young man who had been lying on the grass stood up and shook my hand. He thanked me for leading the group, encouraging everyone, and reminding them to take their gels and stay hydrated. He had achieved a personal record, finishing just over 1:38.

Moments like these bring me even more joy than achieving my own race goals. Helping other runners accomplish something they once thought impossible is the most rewarding part of being a pacer.

Why should someone run in your pace group?

Runners who join my group can expect steady pacing, clear communication, and a positive atmosphere.

I pay close attention to course conditions, hydration stops, and the physical and emotional state of the runners around me. I believe that a successful pace group is not only about reaching the goal time but also about enjoying the journey together.

Any tips for runners about to join your group?

Start conservatively and trust the pacing plan.

Stay hydrated and fuel regularly.

Don't hesitate to ask questions during the race.

Run relaxed and save energy for the final miles.

Most importantly, enjoy the experience and support your fellow runners.

Anything else you’d like to share?

It is never too old to start running. I started running at the age of 60, and running has changed my life in many positive ways. Age should never be an excuse to stop pursuing new challenges or dreams. Whether you are 20, 40, or 60, the most important step is simply to start.

What philanthropic activities do you have?

Besides running and pacing, I also enjoy giving back to the running community in other ways. Whenever I am not participating in the Philadelphia Marathon, I volunteer at aid stations to support fellow runners.

Over the years, I have organized beginner running camps in my local community and helped new runners prepare for their first races. Whether as a runner, a pacer, or a volunteer, I believe that the running community grows stronger when we support one another.

Running has given me health, friendship, and purpose, and I hope to continue giving back for many years to come.