Running Resume

Hi, my name is Drew and I'm your average mid-40s guy that likes to run. I often get asked questions about running, primarily from those breaking into the sport. Since I've decided to address some of these topics here on the blog, I thought I should provide some background about myself and why you might give consideration about what I have to say.

Foremost, keep in mind that I don't consider myself an expert in the field of running. If you're seeking an academic or an accomplished, elite athlete, you should probably look elsewhere. I can even help point you in the right direction, if you'd like. But if you're interested in evolving opinions based on my experiences you've come to the right place.

How did I get started and how much experience do I have? Here's how I answered that question a couple of years ago when profiled by fellow runner, Greg S. If you want to read the entire post here's a link. Also, I highly recommend you check out some of the other content on his blog, Predawn Runner.

My first experience running was when I joined the the high school XC team in ninth grade because a friend of mine talked me into it. I wasn’t very competitive – my fastest 5k was a 23:50 – and was more interested in working, so I finished out the season and then moved on to a part time job. I still occasionally ran on my own, but wasn’t dedicated and had no plan to speak of. It was just something that called to me every once in a while.

Most of my adult life I relocated a lot, serving time in the military and then as a defense contractor. It seemed like each time I started back up and got into running routine it was disrupted by a move. It would take a couple years being settled in Alabama for things to finally come together.

In March of 2007 my daughter’s YMCA swim team participated in a local 5k and I agreed to do it with her. We coaxed each other to the finish line and despite the subsequent soreness the experience still holds a special meaning for me. Anyway, it was then I realized I was destined to get back into shape and become more involved in the local running community.

The background above was written not long after I finished my first marathon in November of 2010. What have I done since then? As far as racing is concerned, I've run five more marathons, one ultra marathon, and too many half marathons to count. I've largely given up on shorter races, like 5Ks, mainly because I don't enjoy them as much as the longer distances. I have, however, entered a couple of 10Ks and a ten-miler, which I really enjoyed.

When I'm not actually running I like to coach. I volunteer a couple of nights per week at the local Y, working with kids varying in ages from about 13-18. I also enjoy occasionally helping out a friend, guiding them through their first big race, which is usually a half marathon or marathon.

I have received some formal "running" education. I attended a Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) coaching course in March of 2012 that was very informative. After passing a comprehensive test and completing the required first aid and CPR training I was awarded a coaching certificate.

In short, my running knowledge has primarily been developed over the years through reading, studying, listening, and participating. I'm looking forward to sharing some of my insights, both serious and silly, and hope you find some value in them. Keeping with the "Running Recon" theme of this blog, you can find related posts tagged with the "Intel" label. And if you have a question you'd like me to tackle, please send it in. You can email me using the link on my Google+ Profile.