Brandon Case, 41, Yuma, AZ, Fire Captain/Paramedic/Technical Rescue Technician
Do you walk, run or run/walk, swim, cycle, do obstacles?I attempt any and all style of events. I enjoy the challenge of obstacle racing and trail running, but overall, my favorite is still road races.
What distances do you do?
I do 5ks, 10ks and half marathons.
How many have you done?
I’ve done too many to count. Basically, if there is a shirt, medal, or an opportunity for fun, I’ll do it.
What do you feel is your greatest race accomplishment?
To organize, hold, and run in my own event that raised funds for victims of 9/11.
Favorite race and why?
If the event is an obstacle race, I would have to say the Spartan series is second to none. The OCR (obstacle course runner) community is a group of people who push each other, yet are there when you need a hand. That is what I love about the challenge of those events. Though if I am running a 10k or half marathon, I don’t believe there is anything more magical than a Run Disney event.
Do you travel for races? Yes, I love to travel to different events all over.
Does your race schedule become expensive? How do you afford to make it happen?
Yes, very expensive. I work extra, pinch, save, and prioritize which events I can do.
Must-have gear on race day:
Bodyglide and Biofreeze.
Weirdest place you’ve ever chafed:
The back of my neck from my coat.
Do you prefer to run in warm weather or cold weather?
I love to run in the cold. Unfortunately, I live in the desert, so I think all my runs are actually warm, if not hot.
Favorite pre-race meal/snack:
Oatmeal and a banana.
Weirdest/funniest thing you’ve ever experienced at a race:
I think it is funny when people remember me just from all the crazy costumes I have worn at previous races.
Worst experience during a race:
I almost wasn’t able to finish the Spartan Beast due to the unseasonably warm temperature. With a few miles to the finish and running out of water, I had a true heat emergency. Luckily, I was able to finish and complete the Spartan Trifecta.
Most awesome moment you’ve ever had at a race:
Crossing the finish line of a run with my daughter and seeing her face as she earned her first medal.
Your favorite part of participating in races:
I love meeting new people, cheering them on, and getting motivated by the crowds.
Do you wear costumes? If so, what’s been your favorite?
Yes, I have worn multiple costumes. Overall, my favorite though is being able to run in my full fire gear with air pack.
How important are awesome medals to you?I love a good medal, and I will travel just to earn it.
Best medal you’ve earned so far:
Last year, I ran the Sunset Strip Half Marathon. The medal was a really cool looking guitar that covered my chest.
Do you prefer to run alone or with a buddy?
I always have more fun running with a buddy. Together, we push each other, yet still have fun while running.
Favorite song on your playlist:
Korn’s song “Blind.” That song just keeps me going.
Who is your race hero and why?
My daughters because they have no quit and they push me to be better.
What is the top race on your bucket list?The Marine Corps Marathon (Semper Fi).
What has been the best physical side effect of your participation in races?
A few years ago, I broke my leg during a charity mud run. The doctor told me that she wasn’t sure if I could continue to do distance running once it healed. I waited and slowly got back into running. Now I’m back to running 1
3.1 miles.
3.1 miles.
Your advice for others who might be intimidated by signing up for a race:
Don’t be intimidated. Running is all about having fun and pushing yourself. Do not stress over your times or place. Instead, just enjoy the experience.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I cherish each day I am fortunate enough to get to run. When asked, “Why do I do it?” All I can say is “I do it and push myself for all the people who can’t anymore. I run for all of my military and public safety brothers and sisters who have made the ultimate sacrifice.”
