Where are you from?

East Peoria, IL

Current P.R.

2:45

Typical pace

Hard

Number of marathons

7

Occupation

Insurance Company – Corp. Development

Favorite marathon

Chicago

Hobbies

Coaching my kids, playing guitar, golf

Favorite Running Food

Cheese Pizza

What are you reading now?

Traveling Music – Neil Peart

Who do you train with?

Usually alone

Personal goals

Stay healthy.  Break 2:40.  Run New York City. 

A quotation you like…

Never play leapfrog with a unicorn.

Why do you run?

I run for my health.  I was overweight and having all sorts of problems before I took up running again 5 years ago (after an 11-year post-collegiate break).  Now I’m addicted to the training.  I love completing my workout every morning.  It’s one of the best parts of my day.

Describe your best marathon memory.

Chicago, 2009.  After struggling in my first 3 attempts at the marathon I finally had the breakthrough I’d been waiting for.  Ran strong and dropped my PR by 18 minutes to 2:51.  Heading down the stretch to the finish line was one of the greatest feelings I’ve had in running.

Why do you pace?

A Pacer was a huge factor in my first half-marathon.  I wasn’t sure how fast I could run, but the longer I stayed with the pacer the more my confidence grew.  It was huge.  I’d like the opportunity to help someone else that same way.

Why should someone run in your pace group?

If you’re in shape to run our goal time – I’ll get you there.  AND we just might have some fun in the process!

Any tips for runners about to join your group?

RELAX!  The marathon doesn’t start until the 20 mile mark.  You SHOULD feel like the pace is way too easy early on.  Settle in, conserve and let me do the work.

What philanthropic activities do you have?

I’ve been involved with St. Jude fundraising for the last several years, as well as getting involved with events for the local Boys and Girls club and other organizations.