What is your current Board Position? Medical Liaison. I help coordinate injury checks during our training programs. I’m around for questions/advice or for steering folks in the direction of medical consultations when appropriate. And help coordinate medical coverage for our Races. And I help do a few other things.
How long have you been running and how long have you been a member of Indy Runners? I played a bunch of sports growing up, but always thought my friends on the XC team were crazy. Then at IU and post-college it was just easier to lace ‘em up and go for a run. Then I met a bunch of friends that were runners and here we are. I’ve been involved with Indy Runners since 2005 and on the Board since 2008. It’s been a wonderfully enjoyable ride.
Are you originally from the Indianapolis Area? Yes. High School in Brownsburg. College at IU. I’m a local guy.
Do you listen to anything while running? If so, what? I used to go with music early on, but for a good 20-years now I’ve just enjoyed the solitude of solo runs and the camaraderie of runs with friends.
What is your favorite distance/race? I don’t end up racing all that much, but certainly enjoy a good Half Marathon. These Full Marathons seem like silly things. It doesn’t stop me from still doing them, but still.
What do you enjoy most about Indy Runners? I love the mix of our membership – all ages, all paces, all levels, all sorts of different reasons for getting out there. It’s a pleasure to share the roads with everyone.
Do you have any goals for the upcoming year? Another Full at Monumental and another attempt at an elusive BQ. Again, marathons = silly things.
What advice would you give to beginning runners? Don’t worry about pace, take walk breaks when needed, and mix it up between solo runs and runs with friends.
What is your favorite route to run? Oh man we’re blessed with so many good ones. From home – through Butler and home on the Towpath. Drive a bit and enjoy the trails at Eagle Creek. Drive quite a bit and enjoy the parks of Holland, Michigan.
What is your favorite running book/movie? Book: Once a Runner. Movie: Without Limits, or the Spirit of the Marathon documentary.
Tell us a little bit about yourself outside of running? I’m a physical therapist at St. Vincent Sports Performance where I get to help runners and athletes of all stripes get and stay healthy. My wife, Kay, and I live in Broad Ripple where we’re close to all sorts of fun routes just out our front door. Golf is my first love, even if I don’t play nearly as much as I used to.
What is your prerace routine? A silly Facebook post that I’ve borrowed from Adam Carolla.
What is your post run/race meal? Our friends at Runners Forum getting Chik-fil-A sandwiches at the Mini is pretty hard to beat. But Carol gives them a run for their money with Breakfast at the Monumental.
What is your proudest running moment? Not sure about “proudest” but my most enjoyable moments come at our Cheer Zone at Monumental sharing everyone’s accomplishments and reflecting on the year.
What might club members find surprising about you? Is it surprising to learn that I’m really not all that surprising?
What is your current Board Position? At Large Member
How long have you been running and how long have you been a member of Indy Runners? I have been running for almost 25 years on and off. Started in middle school and continued through high school and while at Butler. I’ve been part of Indy Runners for about 3 years or so now.
Are you originally from the Indianapolis area? I am originally from Cincinnati, OH but relocated here after going to Butler.
Do you listen to anything while running? If so, what? I am lucky enough to usually have a group to run with, even in the early weekday hours, so we have spirited conversation.
What is your favorite distance/race? My favorite race is probably the marathon. I have completed 12 in the last 11 years, and it always seems to draw me back in.
What do you enjoy most about Indy Runners? The club provides a lot of opportunities for runners of all different abilities. It’s truly focused on bringing people together to run, no matter what their pace is.
What is your favorite route to run? I have a route that goes from my house through downtown and along the White River trail near the zoo. It covers a lot of the city, and usually I will catch the sunrise coming up behind the city in the mornings.
What is your favorite running book/movie? Fight Club – “I ran. I ran until my muscles burned and my veins pumped battery acid. Then I ran some more. ”
How long have you been running and how long have you been a member of Indy Runners? I’ve been running for 26 years but joined Indy Runners and Walkers in 2002.
Are you originally from the Indianapolis Area? I grew up just north of Indy.
Do you listen to anything while running? If so, what? I almost always run outside and prefer to be able to hear nearby cars, so I don’t listen to music or podcasts while running.
What is your favorite distance/race? I’ve raced way more half marathons than any other distance, so I’d say I prefer that distance. However, my favorite race was probably the Siberian Express trail race in Danville, IL. It’s held the first Saturday in January, meaning that the weather conditions vary greatly from year to year. After the race, participants are invited to an after party where lunch is served.
Do you have any goals for the upcoming year? I’ve been trying to qualify for the Boston Marathon for almost 20 years. However, I’ve yet to qualify. This year, I’ve been training all-out in preparation for making a final(?) qualifying attempt this Fall.
Why did you begin running? I got talked into donating blood during my junior year of college, and I found out that my cholesterol was barely in the normal range. I decided to start running to help ensure it didn’t go up
What advice would you give to beginning runners? Seek out the knowledge of experienced runners around you so that you can avoid making the same mistakes we’ve made
What is your favorite route to run? I used to like a six mile route on the trails at Eagle Creek, but I was born with a medical condition that now makes my legs feel heavy when I run. I therefore avoid trails with roots to lessen the chance of tripping. I instead periodically run the roads in the park.
What is your proudest running moment? I’ll list two of them:
I set a half marathon PR of 1:24:50 (6:29 mins/mile pace) many years ago.
As part of a competition at work that was supposedly to promote health, they offered a prize for whoever could do the most steps on a specific Saturday. (We all had been given Fitbits to count steps.) I won the competition with 104,000+ steps. Part of the day was spent participating in our club’s “Run the Monon” 20 mile run. However, I particularly remember walking through the neighborhoods near me after 11:00pm that evening, so tired that I was veering from side-to-side.
What might club members find surprising about you? I’m not very athletic overall. Growing up, I tried three different sports: baseball, soccer, and basketball. If there were multiple levels of leagues, I was always in the lowest league.
What is your current Board Position? Director of Sponsorship
How long have you been running and how long have you been a member of Indy Runners? I started running to lose weight in 2018 but really started to become a more serious runner in 2020. I became a member in 2020.
Are you originally from the Indianapolis Area? No, I am from southern California
Do you listen to anything while running? If so, what? I love listening to podcasts. Mostly on sports, news and pop culture. The only time I listen to music while running is during a workout long run to stay motivated.
What is your favorite distance/race? I’ve never raced anything above a half-marathon. I love that distance because it is the perfect blend of speed and endurance.
Do you have any goals for the upcoming year? I’d like to set a PR at the Monumental Half Marathon. I’d also like to explore more of the trails around Indianapolis.
Why did you begin running? I started running to lose weight but could only run a mile or two and was exhausted. I hated everything about it until I realized I needed to slow down and not run at 100% effort every run. Once I changed that mentality, I fell in love with it.
What advice would you give to beginning runners? Slow down! Not every run is meant to be a race.
What is your favorite route to run? Either north or south on the Monon starting in Broad Ripple. You don’t have to worry about cars and it’s easy to get lost in your thoughts in the trees.
Tell us a little bit about yourself outside of running? I live in Broad Ripple with my wife and our dog, Franklin. I work for an Association Management Company as a Director of Membership, working with professional and trade association.
What is your prerace routine? Bagel with10 minutes or so of some mobility exercises to loosen things up. On the few days I skip it, I regret it pretty quickly..
What is your post run/race meal? A burger and fries.
What is your proudest running moment? Completing the Chicago Marathon inI came in first place at an inaugural 5K race in 2021. I never thought I’d break the tape at an event but it just happened to work for me that day!
What is your current Board Position? I am responsible for arranging the seminars during our Spring Training Program and facilitating our Scholarship program.
How long have you been running and how long have you been a member of Indy Runners? I have been running since 2010 and I have been a member of Indy Runners for about as long as I have been running!
Are you originally from the Indianapolis Area? I grew up in Carmel and graduated from Carmel High School.
Do you listen to anything while running? If so, what? Only conversation with running friends! 🙂
What is your favorite distance/race? ½ Marathon
What do you enjoy most about Indy Runners? I have always been a fan of the Spring Training program. It has helped me train for a number of 500 Festival Mini-Marathons. I am also a huge fan of the Sam Costa races.
Do you have any goals for the upcoming year? My goal is to break 4 hours for the first time in the Monumental Marathon.
Why did you begin running? I started in January 2010 to get in shape. I weighed about 70 pounds more then than I do now.
What is your favorite running motto/mantra? The body achieves what the mind believes.
What advice would you give to beginning runners? Start out slow and find a running club to make friends and help you train for the distance of your choice.
What is your favorite route to run? I love running through Crown Hill Cemetery.
What is your favorite running book/movie? 26 Marathons by Meb Keflezighi
Tell us a little bit about yourself outside of running? I work in sales for a consulting company called Performance Development Group (PDG). I am married to my wife, Jennifer, and we have two daughters, Brooklyn and Chelsea. I love IU sports and Chicago Bears football. I also volunteer with Outreach, Back on My Feet and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana, and I am on the board of the Drumstick Dash and Dove Recovery House for Women.
What is your prerace routine? Bagel with peanut butter and a banana.
What is your post run/race meal? Brunch at the Original Pancake House!
What is your proudest running moment? Completing the Chicago Marathon in 4:02 in 2019.
What might club members find surprising about you? I hated running most of my life. I did not start running regularly until I was 45 years old!
What is your current Board Position? Membership but I’m also helping with STP as a coach.
How long have you been running and how long have you been a member of Indy Runners? On and off for 13 years. I joined Indy Runners back in 2013 when I trained for my first Full Marathon (Monumental). I took a little break from running, got back into it 2017 but didn’t join Indy Runners again till 2020 – right when the pandemic started.
Are you originally from the Indianapolis Area? No- Born in New York, raised in California, moved to Carmel Indiana 2010 for my husband’s work.
Do you listen to anything while running? If so, what? I used to listen to podcasts (I am a neuroscience/psychology nerd) but sometimes it’s hard to listen to the technical ones because I zone out and have to rewind to make sure I really listened! Usually I go without music because I don’t want to use it as a crutch for running.
What is your favorite distance/race? HALF MARATHONS!
What do you enjoy most about Indy Runners? I love that running brings so many types of people and backgrounds to the table. So diverse and inclusive!
Do you have any goals for the upcoming year? Do not get injured. And have fun.
Why did you begin running? I was NEVER athletic as a kid. I hated PE, sports, and was terribly uncoordinated and physically lazy. But after I gave birth to 3 babies in less than 4 years, I gained so much weight and felt awful about how I looked and felt. So I picked up running. It was SO hard but initially but I stuck with it. Somehow my friends in my new mom’s playgroup convinced me to sign up for a half marathon. That was 2009, and I was old as a new runner – 38! But I was able to shed the baby fat and feel great and kept on running just like Forrest Gump. Here I am, my youngest is now 13 and I’ve run almost 30 half’s and 4 fulls.
What is your favorite running motto/mantra? ‘Running is a process and a journey’. Even though we work towards goals, PRs and finish lines and that somehow this is what gets highlighted the most, the bulk of what we do is in our every day habits and boring monotonous ‘busy work’ (fueling well, hydrating, stretching, very slow aerobic runs, recovery, strength training, sleep) that actually gets us to the finish line with a smile. It’s the cumulative journey of the thousands of miles you run that makes you a runner, not just one race.
What advice would you give to beginning runners? I said this in the STP coaches blog but be consistent and make it a habit. It doesn’t matter if you’re slow or fast, or young or old. It doesn’t matter if it’s on a treadmill or outside. It doesn’t matter if periodically you have to rest and walk. It doesn’t matter if it’s super short as in barely a mile or maybe just half a mile. Try to run almost every day and make it a habit. You will become a runner one day because of your habits.
What is your favorite route to run? I’m a creature of habit and don’t mind running the all roundabouts of West Carmel. But I do like the Monon – particularly starting from 96th St and going northbound. And every time I still look out for the Pirate cat.
What is your favorite running book/movie? So many to choose from, but if I had to pick: David Goggins’ ‘Can’t Hurt Me’ because he is the epitome of the underdog facing the worst adversity. There is no other human being who has his mental strength.
Tell us a little bit about yourself outside of running? 17 years ago I left my job as a Project Manager at Technology consulting firm to be a stay at home mom. Even though there were struggles along the way, it was one of the best decisions I ever made. My husband and I have 3 awesome teens Jack 17, Brody 15, Cole 13 so life remains chaotic. We also have 2 crazy but funny dogs – Chesapeake Bay Retrievers – named Lucy and Peggy!
What is your prerace routine? I don’t have a specific one!!
What is your post run/race meal? Something salty, rich and decadent- sour cream & onion potato chips, bacon cheeseburger, fries. Pizza. I don’t have a sweet tooth, I have a salty fat tooth! 🙂
What is your proudest running moment? Finishing my first 13.1 and seeing my sweet babies (ages 1, 3, 4) right there at the finish line!
What might club members find surprising about you? Back in the 90s I was part of an acapella pop/r&b girl group that toured the country (and Hawaii and the Philippines). I also got to travel to Europe twice (England and Germany) on someone else’s dime as a member of the UC Berkeley Chamber Chorus. Music is still in my blood (and my kids are all musical thank goodness!) but it’s taken a back seat to running.
What is your current Board Position? Marketing Director
How long have you been running and how long have you been a member of Indy Runners? Been running for about 13 years. A lot of off and on the last 7. Been a member since July 2021
Are you originally from the Indianapolis Area? Close! From Terre Haute, went to college in Muncie and moved to Fishers afterward. I work in downtown so the Indy Runners runs are a convenient way to get a run in on my way home.
Do you listen to anything while running? If so, what? I don’t; never have been able to
What is your favorite distance/race? Not sure about my favorite race yet since I am just getting back into it but favorite distance is 10+ miles
What do you enjoy most about Indy Runners? The community. There are people of all ages and paces and everyone is so supportive of each other. In my short time with Indy Runners, I have found a new family
Do you have any goals for the upcoming year? Finish a marathon, finish the Jackson 50/50
Why did you begin running? I began running for cross country in the 6th grade. I remember talking to my dad about sports going into middle school and he told me about cross country. I was interested so he took me out to a track and we did 3 laps non-stop. He asked me if I liked it (I did!) and to not let anyone stop me from doing what I love.
What is your favorite running motto/mantra? “In the homestretch” – This is different for each course/distance I do but in high school, we started most of our runs at the park across the street. Usually running out past the park and back. There was a long stretch of trees that every time me and my group would hit that part, we’d kick it up a little and say it was the homestretch. Now, it depends on where I am running but usually within the last mile for long runs is “the homestretch”
What advice would you give to beginning runners? Learn to listen to your body. This will save you so many injuries. It’s okay to push yourself but there is a fine line before you push too far and hurt yourself
What is your favorite route to run?
Williams Creek
I also like going out to the Fall Creek trail
What is your favorite running book/movie? How about Magazine: Runner’s World. I used to be subscribed and they had helpful tips and good articles! Plus it is a nice link to the greater running community as well
Tell us a little bit about yourself outside of running? I love to read, I love tea, I collect mugs, and I write poetry
What is your prerace routine? Carb load the night before! Morning of, I wake up, get dressed and arrive. I don’t typically eat breakfast but before races I will have a birthday cake Gu (it has become my new tradition)
What is your post run/race meal?Anything breakfast-y
What is your proudest running moment? Being done with the Jackson 50/50 50K. I didn’t finish but I am proud of what I did. It was a hard course!
What might club members find surprising about you? I am a pretty open book so I’m not sure. Ask me anything!
What is your current Board Position? At large / Publishes the newsletter
How long have you been running and how long have you been a member of Indy Runners? About 5 years, 4 years with Indy Runners
Are you originally from the Indianapolis Area? Yes, I now live in the same neighborhood in Indianapolis that I grew up in!
Do you listen to anything while running? If so, what? Not usually–just my friends! If I ever do listen to music, it’s 100% going to be Taylor Swift.
What is your favorite distance/race? 13.1 for sure
What do you enjoy most about Indy Runners? I love the people and the organized runs. They keep me motivated to keep coming back and getting better.
Do you have any goals for the upcoming year? Just to continue enjoying running!
Why did you begin running? I began running in 2018 when I started coaching Cross Country. I wanted to be able to keep up with the kids, and I fell in love with it!
What is your favorite running motto/mantra? “Settle in”
What advice would you give to beginning runners? Consistency! I’m sure most people say this, but it’s true! Getting out there even on days you don’t want to will make you a better runner.
What is your favorite route to run? Any routes about Butler and on the Towpath are my favorite. I love the mix of hills, flat roads, and soft surfaces.
What is your favorite running book/movie? Brittany Runs a Marathon (movie, comedy)
Tell us a little bit about yourself outside of running? OuI am a high school English teacher at Bishop Chatard, and am just finishing up my Masters in English at Butler. My husband’s name is Matt, and we have two dogs, Mo and Mae. If I’m not reading or running, I am hanging out with them!
What is your prerace routine? Coffee, toast + pb, banana, warm up, and get after it! I also like to lay out my race clothes the night before.
What is your post run/race meal?A chicken salad sandwich from Cafe Patachou
What is your proudest running moment? Finishing the Monumental Marathon last fall with a 15min. PR!
What might club members find surprising about you? I climbed the tallest mountain in the contiguous US–Mt. Whitney–last summer. It was my first time ever climbing and I felt fantastic the whole day!
What is your current Board Position? I work on all of our races and events.
How long have you been running and how long have you been a member of Indy Runners? I started running way back when I joined my junior high cross-country team. I ran cross-country and track throughout high school and took a long break when I went to college. I rekindled my love of running in my late 20’s and have been running ever since.
Are you originally from the Indianapolis Area? I’m originally from a small town in northcentral Indiana called Peru. It’s the circus capital of the world! I moved to Indy after I graduated from college and have now been here for 22 years.
Do you listen to anything while running? If so, what? I listen to a bunch of stuff and it depends on what I have planned that day. I really enjoy the Rich Roll Podcast, Fuel for the Sole Podcast, and typically listen to autobiographies. When I’m listening to music, well, it gets pretty diverse but it’s usually some crazy playlist I created on Spotify.
What is your favorite distance/race? I really enjoy the half-marathon. It’s long enough to be a strong challenge but it doesn’t dominate my life like marathon training.
What do you enjoy most about Indy Runners? I love connecting with our fellow runners in Indy Runners. It’s great seeing those that are just starting out on their running journey while also swapping stories and training tips with some of the more seasoned runners.
Do you have any goals for the upcoming year? My goal is to incorporate more strength training in my routine
Why did you begin running? I started running back in junior high because I was terrible at all of the other sports! I took it back up in my late 20’s because I needed a lifestyle change. I was able to drop several unhealthy habits and pick up a new, healthy habit of running.
What is your favorite running motto/mantra? My favorite mantra is “Relentless Forward Progress”. One year when I was running the Monumental Marathon, I saw someone holding up a huge sign with this mantra right at the halfway point. It really stuck with me and became my go-to mantra not just in running, but in my daily life.
What advice would you give to beginning runners? Don’t compare yourself to others, actively seek inspiration, be your own hero. Those runners you see out there crushing big miles with a fast pace started the same way you did. It just takes time. We are all on our own personal journeys and what works for one person may not work for another. There’s a lot of toxicity out there in the running culture to constantly improve and achieve. Don’t buy into it and follow your own path, and that starts with listening to what your body is telling you.
What is your favorite route to run? I really enjoy running the trails out at Ft. Ben. I don’t get to do it very often, but it’s never boring
What is your favorite running book/movie? While it’s not really a running book, I love The Alchemist by Paul Coelho. Eat to Run by Scott Jurek is fantastic and changed the way I look at food and running.
Tell us a little bit about yourself outside of running? Outside of running, I’m a project manager in the pharma industry. I’m married and my wife and I spend a lot of time with hanging out with our dogs. I enjoy hiking and spending time in nature and I love to travel and explore new cities.
What is your prerace routine? I like to get to the starting area early so I can feel relaxed. I try to find a quiet place and listen to some music that gets me mentally ready to race. I’ll do some light stretches and go through my gear/nutrition to make sure that I have everything. Once I feel ready, I head to the starting line and just focus on the task ahead.
What is your post run/race meal? I honestly don’t want to eat anything after I run. I’m just not hungry. So instead, I try to drink a protein shake and start taking in hydration. Later on that day though, I hear a jar of peanut butter calling my name.
What is your proudest running moment? My proudest running moment was when I crossed the finish line at my first marathon. I never wanted to run a marathon but got convinced to do it. There is no feeling quite like crossing that line – it justifies all of the early mornings, all of the miles, and all of the other work it takes just to get to the starting line.
What might club members find surprising about you? I used to be a light smoker before I picked up running again. It was a bad habit that I picked up in college and it needed to go. The day I made the decision to start running was the same day as my last cigarette. Never again.
What is your current Board Position? Past President and current At Large Board Member
How long have you been running and how long have you been a member of Indy Runners? I ran my first half marathon in 2003 and first full in 2013. This year’s Sam Costa will be my 106th half and Carmel Marathon will be my 61st full. I think I joined Indy Runners around 2010 because it was important to me that there be a thriving running community in our city.
Are you originally from the Indianapolis Area? I grew up in Broad Ripple and moved to Noblesville in Junior High. I didn’t go far, though, as I graduated from Butler University and have staying in the Indy area ever since.
Do you listen to anything while running? If so, what? Podcasts (currently crime and lawyer-y things) and NPR.
What is your favorite distance/race? Marathons, hands down!
What do you enjoy most about Indy Runners? The people. There is rarely a shortage of interesting conversations.
Do you have any goals for the upcoming year? Be proud of my race efforts, regardless the time.
Why did you begin running? I signed up for my first Mini with the intention of losing weight and getting in shape. A couple weeks before the race, I figured I should probably lace up and get some miles under my belt. Eventually, I learned that’s not the best approach.
What is your favorite running motto/mantra? I hear Leslie Teskey’s voice in my head saying one of two things: “Trena loves this (running) more than the rest of us” and “crazy little bad*ss”
What advice would you give to beginning runners? Keep showing up. I spent my first summer at PBT between packs, but eventually caught the group ahead of me. They’re among my closest friends and STILL challenge me on runs.
What is your favorite route to run? Eagle Creek, although I don’t get out there as much as I should.
Tell us a little bit about yourself outside of running? I describe myself as a Connector, a Communicator and an Enabler. I value information and experiences.
What is your prerace routine? Talking to everyone.
What is your post run/race meal? A thick burger, salty fries and a beer.
What is your proudest running moment? My second marathon – Monumental 2013 – where I BQed by 17-seconds. I didn’t care if I had enough cushion to go, I just wanted to hit the mark.
What might club members find surprising about you? I can’t whistle.
How long have you been running and how long have you been a member of Indy Runners? In high school in Connecticut, we HAD to do after-school activities. One winter semester I chose ‘winter running’. I’d like to say that I have been running ever since, but I have not. But that taught me that I could do what I thought was a weird summer activity at any time in any weather. In my 30s I started to do 5K races with work mates, but my race training started the week before the race. Not ideal. In my 40s and 50s, I got more serious about running. In my late 50s I joined a training program and a running club for the first time, which rank among my better life decisions. What took me so long!!??
Are you originally from the Indianapolis Area? I grew up in Connecticut and New York. We left New York after 9/11 for a job in Peoria where we lived for 19 years. We moved to Indy in May 2021 and love it!
Do you listen to anything while running? If so, what? Music is an important part of my life, and I have dozens of running-specific playlists for my runs. Favorite genres are indie rock, post-punk, new wave, afrobeat and prog rock.
What is your favorite distance/race? Over the last several years, the half marathon has become my favorite race distance. It’s far enough to be a serious commitment, but I’m not wiped out for days. Last year I did back-to-back weekend races, and both went really well!
What do you enjoy most about Indy Runners? I really like the people, the community, the training programs and the number of weekly club runs. I learned late in life that using these opportunities kept me accountable and disciplined but has also increased my love of the sport.
Do you have any goals for the upcoming year? I have signed up for four half marathons (so far) for this year and may also do an Olympic Triathlon.
When did you begin running and why? The ‘why’ is that running also allows me to eat the foods that I love to be honest and helps me to be healthier.
What is your favorite running motto/mantra? That “I am lucky enough to be able to do this. Relax and enjoy it.”
What advice would you give to beginning runners? Be curious and keep learning about running.
What is your favorite running book/movie? I read Runners World magazine and can easily go down internet rabbit holes when I geek out on running information and practices.
Tell us a little bit about yourself outside of running? My wife Jeanne and I have two married daughters (One in Indy and the other in Peoria), and an amazing grandson.
What is your prerace routine? Pre-race and Long Run routine is the same: Fresh pasta the night before. Breakfast is a 20 oz. cup of coffee and a bowl of cereal with added flax, chia and hemp seeds. I drink some kombucha and kefir. It may sound like a lot, but I know what works for me, and I can’t run without something in my stomach.
What might club members find surprising about you? That I really love cats, and I do volunteer work at a cat shelter.
How long have you been running and how long have you been a member of Indy Runners?
I started running 17 years ago but was inconsistent for the first 5 years. I joined Indy Runners 12 years ago which led to improvement and year round running.
Are you originally from the Indianapolis Area? Far Eastside (McCordsville)
Do you listen to anything while running? If so, what? I try to listen to my fellow running friends but my labored breathing often gets in the way.
What is your favorite distance/race? Half Marathon although I am warming up to 5ks!
What do you enjoy most about Indy Runners? Meeting amazing and inspirational members
Do you have any goals for the upcoming year? To continue to enjoy running (and maybe a sub 20 minute 5k)!
When did you begin running and why? I ran the Mini Marathon 17 years ago on a bet after an evening of imbibing on adult beverages with friends
What is your favorite running motto/mantra? This too shall pass / It never always gets worse!
What advice would you give to beginning runners? Body Glide and band aids.. the pain in your legs is enough, don’t add to the misery!
What is your favorite route to run? Eagle Creek red loop
What is your favorite running book/movie? Movie – The Race That Eats Its Young (Barkleys Marathon)
Tell us a little bit about yourself outside of running? I enjoy traveling, volunteering, the outdoors and being dragged around by my dog Nakoda on hikes.
What is your proudest running moment? Talking 5 of my non running friends into doing the Mini and getting to see them finish!
What is your favorite post run/race meal? Chocolate milk and a bagel
What is your prerace routine? I would say carb loading but I don’t usually limit that to race night! In the morning I have a cup of coffee, a banana and a blueberry muffin. I also crumple up my bib before I put it on.
What might club members find surprising about you? I tried out for the Indianapolis Fire Department once (didn’t get selected).
Experience: 16 Years of Run Experience: 12 Marathons, 14 Half Marathons, 2 Half Ironman, 1 Full Ironman, and multiple Olympic Tri, Sprints Tri, 10k, 5k, etc. (Coach Certified in Long Distance & USATF)
Advice to new Runners: The gear you choose to wear when training for an endurance event can make or break your experience. Shoes are the MOST important investment you can make when running; get fitted for the proper running shoe for your gait (the way you run)!
Ann Howard
Long Run Pace: I can be flexible with my pacing, ranging between 7s-9s.It will be all dependent on what is needed for the day!
Experience: Sophomore year of high school I joined track for the first time not knowing that it was going to replace my love for soccer. Senior Year I ran my first half marathon as my mom inspired me to just get out there and have fun! Since then I have run multiple 5ks, 10ks, half marathons, marathons, and ultra-marathons on road and trail. Currently I am teaching Middle School Math and have coached Track and Cross Country! Lastly, I have paced several races in Indiana and Ohio to help accomplish other runner’s goals!
Advice to new Runners: One piece of advice that I have is always look for adventure in your runs. It keeps them spontaneous so that you will always have a fire to run! #runyourjourney
Kathy Sax
Long Run Pace: 12 minute mile and maybe less??
Experience: I have been running for 43 Years and Happy to still do it. and feel Great.
I think I am the oldest Indy Runner Woman. I am 72 years Old.
I have run 9 Marathons, 34 Indianapolis Mini Marathons and a lot more Half Marathons, 10K and 5K races.
Advice to new Runners: LISTEN TO YOUR BODY!!! Don’t ignore soreness or aches. Your body will tell you when you can run and when you can rest. Days off are as important as the days your run. Have fun meeting others and enjoying Mama Nature.
Jeff Dehler
Long Run Pace: 9:00 min mile
Experience: I started running in 7th grade at Rosemount (MN) Middle School when my second cousin and best friend said he was going to run track and invited me to join him. I ran track and cross country from then through the end of high school, and have been running ever since. I don’t race too frequently – a few times each year. I ran my first full marathon in 1983, and have completed about ten more since then. I’ve run 3 trail 50ks. I really enjoy running with a group a couple times a week for the social aspect, but I still enjoy solo runs when I can either zone out or think through challenges at work. Helping run the Spring Training Program for Indy Runners & Walkers is a great honor as I see people accomplish running goals they have never tried before.
Advice to new Runners: Life can get in the way, but it won’t stop you from running if you commit to it. Take a few days off and then get back at it.
Alicia Royce
Long Run Pace: My pace is between 10:30- 11:30
Experience: Last year 2021, I completed two 50K
Advice to new Runners/ Reason to Run: The reason I run is to fight depression. Exercise is the best way to be active and healthy. Plus it is fun and I get to meet new people. If you say let’s go for a run I will be there with you.
I’m better at long distance runs, with a one track mind…to finish the goal.
Nina Ardery
Long Run Pace: 11:30-ish
Experience: 12 marathons, 65+ half marathons. I coach middle school XC, so I have experience with reluctant runners.
Advice to new Runners: You regret only the runs you don’t do.
Andrew (left) and Craig (right)
Andrew and Craig Peterson
Long Run Pace:
Andrew – I’ll run any pace to make a new running friend. I’ll talk your leg off – even at a 7:00 pace
Craig – 9:00-10:00 pace. 8:30 if I’m feeling great
Experience:
Andrew – I’ve run 18 marathons, 20 half-marathons and dozens of 5Ks. I’ve twice clocked Boston qualified times and ran the race in 2019. Learn more of Andrew’s accomplishments here.
Craig – After years of competing 5Ks, I’ve recently completed four half-marathons and my first full marathon in Montana in 2021.
Advice for new Runners:
Andrew – Running. I like it. I’m good at it. And I get even better with hard work. You can too!
Craig – Listen to your body. Never underestimate the value to stretching. Take care of your feet daily to avoid injury
Joe Abiog
Long Run Pace: 9 – 10 min mile
Experience: I am a re-formed triathlete with 10 plus years of running and endurance experience.
Advice for new Runners: The most important part of any run is the warm up.
Angelica McMurtray
Long Run Pace: 10:15-11:15 min mile
Experience: Started running late in life, after kids! So 12 years on & off: 4 full marathons and about 27 half marathons
Advice for new Runners: stick with it and make it a habit because consistency is what makes you a runner!! It doesn’t matter if you run a little, or run slowly, just do it regularly and consistently.
Tracy Snider
Long Run Pace: 9:00- 9:30 min mile
Experience: Have been running consistently for 12 years. I have run 30 ish half marathons, 5 marathons and 3 50ks.
Advice for new Runners: Goal #1 is getting to the start line. It is better to take time off if you are banged up and make it to the start line healthy then to risk a DNF (did not finish) or DNS (did not start).
Mark Nickerson
Long Run Pace: 9:30-10:30 min mile
Experience: In my 30s I started to do 5K races with work mates, but my race training started the week before the race. Not ideal. In my 40s and 50s, I got more serious about running, but lacked consistency. In my late 50s I joined a training program and a running club for the first time, which rank among my better life decisions. What took me so long!!??
Advice for new Runners: Be curious and keep learning about running.
Amanda (left)
Amanda McKinley
Long Run Pace: 9:30 – 10 ish min mile
Experience: 13 marathons, maybe 10 or so half-marathons
Advice for new Runners: Patient persistence is key to improvement, but make sure to have fun in the process.
Debbie Durst
Long Run Pace:I will probably be running an 11 or 11:30 on long runs. A lot depends on the weather! I do best when it isn’t hot.
Experience: I started running 14 years ago after walking the Mini for 6 years. I trained by myself on a treadmill the first year and met my goal of under 3 hours. I joined Indy Runners the next year and made significant improvement in my time. I loved the pacers and the great friends I have made over the years. My Mini PR is 2:13 and I have a PR at the 2014 Monumental Marathon (which will always stand since I am one-and-done!). Advice for new Runners: Just enjoy your run and have fun. There will be days when you don’t run your best, but that’s okay. You are in a very elite group that has the commitment to “put one foot in front of the other” on a regular basis! I can’t wait to see you cross the finish line of your first half marathon!
