Where are you from?

Columbus, Ohio

Current P.R.

3:42 and looking forward to seeing it drop!

Typical pace

8:45

Number of marathons

10 Marathons and Ultras

Occupation

Editor, National Tractor Pullers Association

Favorite marathon

Akron Marathon-my first!

Hobbies

The three R’s: Reading, Writing and Running! Never cared much for Arithmetic.

Favorite Running Food

Food? Did someone say food? I’m hungry…

What are you reading now?

Mutant Message Down Under

Who do you train with?

Pacer Chris S

Personal goals

Conquer my first 100-miler, run an African safari marathon, legitimately beat Pacer Chris in a race, and follow my heart wherever else it leads!

A quotation you like…

“You will never be able to escape from your heart. So it’s better to listen to what it has to say.” Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist

Why do you run?

What began as a fitness goal evolved into a passion and lifestyle. I find joy in this sport like none I’ve ever experienced. Whether in the solitude of a solo run or the companionship of a group run, when my feet hit the trail, my world is a better place.

Describe your best marathon memory.

I like to think the best is yet to come, but the Georgia Marathon in 2013 was pivotal. After a tough winter, it was during that run that everything fell into place and I was overwhelmed by an incredible sense of peace. These were my people, this was where I belonged, and life was beautiful! I shed tears of joy throughout and after the race. Sometimes, a long run really is the best medicine!

Why do you pace?

I have been fortunate to have an accomplished athlete and pacer coach me from the ground up. It’s my responsibility to pay it forward, and if I can pass on just one ounce of the knowledge and encouragement I’ve received from him and others, I consider it a blessing.

Tell us your best pacing experience.

I paced a dear friend toward his PR goal of a sub-2 half marathon. Watching him fly up the hills, I knew he could blow away his goal, so I kept the pace challenging but comfortable. He cruised into a 1:54 finish and immediately set a new goal of 1:50. Of course, I’ll be by his side again, helping him gun for 1:45!

Why should someone run in your pace group?

I will get you to the finish line on time and have a little fun along the way! I also hope to leave you with one or two pointers as you carry on in your future running pursuits.

Any tips for runners about to join your group?

Bring along a bottle of water so you can be properly hydrated from the start and not have to get caught up in the traffic jams usually associated with the early water stations.

Anything else you’d like to share?

We all have our own running tales. I look forward to hearing yours!

What philanthropic activities do you have?

I’d love to some day go on missions, maybe in India, and give back to this incredible world.