When did you begin running and why?
I began running when I was 12 years old in a cross country race. At that time, like almost all Italian boys, I used to play soccer, and running was only a part of my training. When I was 16 I was asked to join a bigger soccer team for the following season. While I was waiting for that, I started running by myself on the local track, and pretty soon the coach of the track & field team noticed me and he talked me into racing a 1500 meters. After that race I fell in love with running and I gave up soccer.
The following years I moved many times from city to city and without a track close by I lost interest in running. Over the years I gained many pounds and I realized that I had to do something to lose weight. Eventually I went back to running, not on the track anymore (I was too old for that) but on the roads.
What's your favorite part about being a DCRRC member?
It’s a great opportunity to meet different people from different countries and backgrounds. The running community makes you feel as being part of a big family.
What do you think about when you run?
Nothing specific. Usually I train in the evenings after work, and running is a way to recharge after a long day.
What do you enjoy about running in DC?
Great views, many miles of trails and a lot of races during the weekend.
What’s your life like outside of running?
I’m an Officer of the Italian Air Force and that means to move every 3 years and live in different places. Nevertheless I’m fortunate enough to have a wife that shares all my interests and a job that I like, so even with ups and downs my life’s a happy one.
Describe your favorite race.
I love technical and challenging courses therefore I love cross country races, on the track my favorite is the 3000mt steeplechase.
Why do you run?
I just love it ... and why shouldn’t I?
What’s the best running tip you’ve ever received?
My old coach constantly reminded me to always think about keeping the correct posture and stride while running. It’s easy at the end of a race, when you’re tired, to lose the proper form and therefore compromise the performance or risk injuries.... but it’s easier said than done.
What is one thing you wouldn't run without?
I would like to answer with something different ... but unfortunately it’s my eyeglasses: I am farsighted and even my shades have corrective lenses.
