When did you begin running and why?
I began running in college as a way to stay in shape and enjoy the outdoors. I ran in very cold temperatures and on many hills. I am grateful I endured!
How did you find out about DCRRC and when did you join?
In 2002, I moved to DC from NYC and sought ways to meet other runners. DCRRC sponsored a race I helped organize when I was in law school through the Hoya Lawya Runners, and SLR began close to my house, so the club was a great fit for me and eased my transition back to DC.
What are you training for right now?
I am hoping to run the Stockholm marathon in June. I had trained for this race in 2021, but then it was postponed to October, and then it became complicated to travel to Sweden because of the pandemic. Thankfully the organizers deferred my entry to 2022.
What is the toughest run or race in which you have participated?
This is tie between the Jackson Hole Marathon in 2016 (at over 6,000 feet elevation) and the London Marathon in 2021 (where I suffered leg cramps for the last 10K, but mentally overcame it). If you're doing it right, each race should be tough in some way.
What is the most important lesson running has taught you?
Running has made me physically and mentally stronger, it has shown me the kindness in my running community, and it has made me grateful for being able to enjoy the outdoors. I have been inspired by so many runners, and hopefully I have inspired a few along the way.
What is your favorite route in the area?
My favorite route is any route that I can enjoy with my friends.
What race day traditions do you have?
Race kit prepared the night before. Obligatory photo on Instagram. In the morning: strong coffee, bran cereal, almond milk, and a banana. Stretch and hydrate. Text my mom. No matter the time zone, she promptly wishes me well.
What is your favorite post-race meal?
Veuve Clicquot, miso soup, tuna nigiri, green tea mousse.
What is your proudest running moment?
Qualifying for Boston in 2010 and watching my boys' cross-country races.
What is your favorite running book and/or movie?
Kipchoge: The Last Milestone (2021); What I Talk About When I Talk About Running (Haruki Murakami).
What is your life like outside of running?
Busy! I have two sons, aged 12 and 14. My family spends a lot of time in the Virginia countryside, where we enjoy a nice change of pace from DC life. I am a bank regulatory lawyer in DC and I support various arts and charitable organizations. I still play the piano, which I have done since childhood, but I dream of doing much more of that in 2022.
Pictured with Alex: Shauna Nicholas Waite, Katie Sprinkel, Carrie Dunn, Tatyana Steis
