How and when did you start running?
I grew up playing soccer/futbol but didn't in college. I put on about 50lbs and decided enough was enough. There was no futbol/soccer leagues in this area so I decided to take up running summer of 2006. Haven't looked back since.
What's your favourite distance and race and why?
The marathon....I like the time it takes in
preparing for one goal race. When you finish that distance and you're
sore knowing you put everything you had into that day. That's the best
feeling.
I usually average 65-75 miles a week. I won't
flirt with triple digits because I feel that's too much with me working
full time. I think what I do is plenty.
Where do you typically run, track, roads or trail?
Most runs are on the road unless it's a specific workout (800s, Ks) then I go to the track.
What's your favorite workout?
5)
Favorite workout is 2x3, 3x2, or 2x4 mile repeats at marathon pace, To
me, that gets me most prepared and familiar with what I need to do on
race day.
You recently started with a new coach, what can you tell us about him and his approach?
His approach is 2 workouts a week and a lot of
easy miles. His basic workout is usually tough but he wants me to really
get used to running hard for longer periods. Long runs usually have a
fast finish too.
How would you describe yourself as an athlete?
Most people around here say I'm a "gifted"
athlete. That couldn't be further from the truth. I consider myself an
average athlete who just likes to see himself improve with hard work.
Tell us about your upcoming races and goals?
I have a half marathon December 10th
(I think that's the date) and a marathon the weekend before Valentine's
Day in Jacksonville (breast cancer marathon). Ultimate goal is to
qualify for Boston and leave no doubt about getting into the field.
You are coming back from a long period of injuries, was it hard and how did you cope with it?
It was hard yes because it felt like I was never going to get better. I
went the chiropractor for awhile and didn't seem to help. Finally went
to PT at the beginning of this year after taking 4 months off. Haven't
taken 4 months off of running since I started running in 2006. I did a
lot of walking and tried to stay busy doing other things non workout
wise but after running virtually almost every day taking that time off
took a toll on me.
Your girlfriend just finished her first marathon, how did it go and do you train together?
10) She did well. I told her to just
embrace the moment and she did. I knew she'd want to do another one
after this which she does so now she has bigger goals. We run sometimes
together for my easy runs but most of the time our training plans don't
line up well.
Tell me about your trip to Peru this summer?
The Peru was amazing. My father was born and
raised there so going there to see his homeland was something I've
always wanted to do since I've never been. We stayed in Lima and took a 4
days Cuzco tour which consisted seeing one of the 9 wonders of the
world in Machu Picchu. Out of everything I experienced that was the best
moment. I also got to spend time and visit with my dads family that
still lives in Peru. Everyone there is so welcoming and full of love in
that country. It's def a lot different than America.
From what I can tell you're a “sneaker-holic”. How many pairs of shoes do you have and what's your favorite, beside Salming?
I do
love sneakers. I started " collecting" them since I would purchase
mainly white shoes and wanted to keep them clean at all times. I started
buying 3 or 4 at a time to have back ups. Then I saw different color
ways of different shoes and wanted all of them. The rest is history.
Besides Salming I love Nike, New Balance, and have recently been like
Adidas.
When did you first hear about Salming and Salming Running?
I first heard about Salming from Stefan
Albinsson. He always spoke so highly of the company so I knew I had to
try a pair. I did and was hooked.
How long have you been an ambassador?
I have been an ambassador since the beginning of 2017, love it and hope to continue with the brand in the future.
What's your favourite Salming shoe and equipment?
My favorite Salming shoe is the Speed6. It's my go to shoe for marathon
pace workouts, can handle well, and will def be my marathon shoe. I
also love the Salming hoody and jackets. I purchased a navy and gray
hoody and have been obsessed with wearing them since I got them. They're
so comfortable and warm. The running jackets are also very comfortable,
keep me warm, and the fit is great.
What does #nononsense mean to you?
#nononsense means Salming's products are legit. They mean business and they don't mess with nonsense products.
How does Salming Running fit in, in today's running industry?
They fit in because their products look good and I feel nowadays a lot
of runners care about that almost as much as their performance. They
have a different shoe for every type of runner. That's a positive thing
and even though you may not want to be a fast runner there's still a
Salming shoe for you.
How do you promote Salming as an ambassador?
I am constantly talking up Salming
to everyone and always wearing their products. Have gotten tons of
compliments and that strikes up conversations. I also promote it a lot
via social media. That has in turn receiving messages with people
interested in the brand.
How do you see Salming grow in the future?
I think as long as the company
continues to make quality shoes/clothing then they will speak for
themselves. Getting out to different expos is also a really good thing
that the company is doing. Allowing people to try on the shoes for them
to experience first hand is very positive.
