1. What inspires you to run?

I run for many reasons.  1)  Running is life therapy.  Something about when it is just you and the road or trails, your worries melt away.  2)  I run to stay healthy.  My dad passed away of a heart attack when I was a young boy and I want to ensure that I stay heart healthy for my family.  3) I am a competitor.  The thrill of competition has always driven me.  I like to challenge myself to be the best athlete that I can be and competing against others helps with that.  4) I run to be a good role model for my 3 boys.  I want to be able to show my boys what a strong work ethic looks like as well as the importance of accomplishing goals, as well as finishing what you start in life. 5) Camaraderie:  Joining MRC a couple years ago was one of the best decisions I have ever made.  I will cherish the  life long friendships I have made with like minded people forever! 6) Helping others achieve their goals by sharing my knowledge of the sport at every turn.  I love to see others accomplish their goals and do anything I can do to helppeople achieve their goals.

2. When did you start running?
I started running in middle school.  In gym class, the teacher would have us see how many laps we could run in a set amount of time.  It was then that I learned that I had a gift of running for long periods of time.  I then joined the cross country and track team in high school and went on to run for the University of North Texas.

3. Favorite post-race meal?
A nice juicy burger and a beer!

4. Favorite race.
My last race.  Dallas marathon.  4th time running this race.  Came in to race with a goal of finishing in the Top 10 overall.  Finished 6th overall and ran a personal best of 2:38:08. Nothing like hometown crowd support to get you to the finish!

5. Best advice to new runner.
Having run for 30 years, I have a lot of advice to share.  One piece of advice for anyone trying to get faster is to KEEP THE EASY DAYS EASY, AND THE HARD DAYS HARD.  Too often I see people go hard too often and wind up injured and do not get the full fulfillment of the sport.  Going harder than you should on your easy days also does not allow your body to reap the benefits of what true hard workouts provide.

6. One fun fact about you…
My wife Cynthia and I are set to celebrate our 20th year of marriage on Nevember 9th of this year.   We met running track and cross country at UNT many moons ago.  She is the love of my life and is the rock of our family!