Where are you from?

Raised in Missouri, currently from Central Florida

Current P.R.

Marathon 3:49

Typical pace

Number of marathons

23

Occupation

Retired so full time volunteering, previously engineering

Favorite marathon

They are all special, Eugene is a highlight because it was my first BQ

Hobbies

Graphic design, reading,

Favorite Running Food

Salmon and rice

What are you reading now?

Various books to support my coaching

Who do you train with?

I have a mix of solo, friends, and a pace group depending on my coaching schedule

Personal goals

Stay healthy so I can keep running!

A quotation you like…

Don’t live as if you’re afraid of being late to your own funeral – Geir Berthelsen

Why do you run?

Every run is a chance to learn something new, to see something new, to make a new friend, to feel accomplished.

Describe your best marathon memory.

I don’t have just one! I still get emotional thinking about these three specific moments: at the finish of my first half marathon in 2010, the finish of the Myrtle Beach Marathon in 2018 when I qualified for the Boston marathon, and the end of a 20-mile run after my back surgery in 2019. They are so special because of the people who shared them with me, all the miles we ran in the months prior to prepare, and their belief that I could do it. Those celebratory sweaty hugs are ones I’ll remember forever.

Why do you pace?

I’ve coached and paced groups since 2013, and there is something magical about putting others first.

Tell us your best pacing experience.

This is my first year as an official pacer, but runners are the best and as a group coach I’ve led many long run workouts so I feel ready for the challenge of pacing an official event.

Why should someone run in your pace group?

I’m a running coach, so I’ll be giving reminders on nutrition, form, course management or answering any questions you’ve got about running! I can talk about running for hours – it’s a beautiful blend of art and science.

Any tips for runners about to join your group?

We’ve got this! You focus on running, and I’ll focus on the navigation, pacing, and bringing you safely to the finish line. If you believe you can do it, I will believe you can do it too. If any self doubt creeps in, I will still believe you can do it.

Anything else you’d like to share?

I ran multiple marathons before I ran my second 5k. After 10 years, I may have run as many marathons as 5ks, but that we all get to share the same joy of accomplishment regardless of the distance or pace we run is one of the things I love most about running.

What philanthropic activities do you have?

I have been a volunteer for my local running club since 2016. I coach, race direct, and serve as technical support and graphic artist. I am also on the board for the Road Runners Club of America.