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When did you begin running and why?
I started running when I was in elementary school and never really stopped. It’s always been therapeutic for me and a way to relieve stress from school, work, or whatever else is going on. As I’ve gotten older, running has not only been a way for me to connect with myself, but it’s really helped me connect with others too.

How did you find out about DCRRC and when did you join?
I found out about DCRRC from Megan Curtin (we met at a pub run back in 2017). She was trying to get me to join for years, and I’ve finally become an active member. I started coming consistently to Monday Chill Run and Wednesday Night track at the end of 2022. I hope to come to more SLRs this summer.

What are you training for right now?
I signed up for the Marine Corps Marathon 50k which is on October 29th this year. October 29th is my 31st birthday so I’ll be running 31 miles for my 31st birthday. It will be my first ultramarathon!

What is the toughest run or race in which you have participated?
Last year, I fell and broke my finger less than 1-mile into a long run. That was a tough way to start (and end) a run.

What is the most important lesson running has taught you?
Running has taught me how important it is to be both physically and mentally healthy. Your body can only take you so far…mental toughness plays a big part. It’s something I’m continually working on.

What is your favorite route in the area?
I love the Arlington Loop. I always run it for my first 16-miler of marathon training, and it really gets me in that long run mindset.

What race day traditions do you have?
I always eat a South Block PB&J Acai Bowl the day before a race. Race day morning I have a cup of coffee and do a 20-minute easy yoga session.

What is your favorite post-race meal?
Boston Market – chicken, mac & cheese, mashed potatoes, and cornbread!

What is your proudest running moment?
Qualifying for the Boston Marathon at Richmond Marathon Fall 2022. It was almost an hour marathon PR for me and the strongest finish I’ve ever had at any race.

What is your favorite running book and/or movie?
I really enjoyed Born to Run. I also love the Ali on the Run Podcast.

What is your life like outside of running?
Outside of running I enjoy hiking, reading, concerts, and traveling. For my day job, I’m a Professional Engineer - I do mechanical design for buildings, with a focus on sustainability.