Jason Stefaniak, Michigan, 35, Certified Nursing Assistant
What inspired you to start doing races?
I was told when I got married to my beautiful wife that I needed to lose weight to be able to have children and start a family. So, I started walking and I heard of a program in the local newspaper to train you to run a 5k for the St. Patrick’s Day Race. I thought to myself, “it wont hurt to try it”, so I did and I got hooked and have done races ever since.
Do you walk, run or run/walk, swim, cycle, do obstacles?
I started out walking, then I advanced into running. I started swimming and cycling to lose weight which I also enjoy. I also started doing races that involve doing obstacles.
What distances do you do?
I have done many 5k’s, 8k’s, 10k’s, one full marathon, and I am training for my third half marathon.
How many have you done?
I have done so many I can’t count them, but on avenge, I run 15 to 20 a year.
What do you feel is your greatest race accomplishment?
Crossing the finish line of my first race, and also when I crossed the finish line of my first marathon at Disney World.
Favorite race and why?
My favorite race ? Hmmmm… I don’t know, because I have so many. I can name a few of my favorites. The Disney Marathon is one of my favorites. I loved running through all of the theme parks and seeing the Disney characters along the way. I also like the Lilac Race on Mackinac Island. You run through a beautiful island and you see all the lilacs blooming and the smell of them is very good. You see a lot of nature while you are running and the horses are gorgeous. Also, they don’t have cars on the island, which is also cool to me too.
Do you travel for races?
Yes, usually around the state of Michigan. I have traveled to Florida to run the Disney Marathon. I am also willing to run other places outside to state of Michigan, if I have ideas from other people for the best races to choose.
Does your race schedule become expensive? How do you afford to make it happen? 
Yes, it does become expensive. I usually use my tax returns to pay for them and I also save money from my pay checks. You can’t keep me from running my races; I will find a way.
Must-have gear on race day:
I must have my iPod to listen to my music and audio books. I also like to have my sports watch to track my distances and pace. Comfortable shoes are also a must.
Weirdest place you’ve ever chafed:
The weirdest place I have chafed is probably on my chest. There is nothing worse than finishing a race with a bloody shirt.
Do you prefer to run in warm weather or cold weather?
Well, I live in Michigan, so I get the best of both worlds. I am used to running in both hot and cold weather. I just learn to dress appropriately.
Favorite pre-race meal/snack:
My favorite pre-race snack is a banana, Gatorade and Shot Blocks.
Weirdest/funniest thing you’ve ever experienced at a race:
I did a zombie race and there were zombies that jumped out of the bushes and from under bridges while we were running.
Worst experience during a race:
When I was walking in one of my first races, I was passed by a guy in my age group who was running. I didn’t think anything about it at first, but when I finished the race during the awards ceremony … I found out he was signed up as a walker and it cost me a medal for my age group.
Most awesome moment you’ve ever had at a race:
The most awesome moment was when I received a second place medal for the first race I ran.
Your favorite part of participating in races:
My favorite part of participating in races is when total strangers are cheering you on, and seeing the signs people make to encourage you to keep going. I is very inspiring to me.
Do you wear costumes? If so, what’s been your favorite?
Yes, I love to dress up for themed races! My favorite was when we were made up to look like zombies for a
Running Dead race.
How important are awesome medals to you?
I love to get finisher medals. I hang mine up on my wall and every time I see them I think to myself up I did it and I can keep going.
Best medal you’ve earned so far:
The best medal I have earned so far was my Mickey Marathon medal because it’s proof of all the hard work I did to earn it. I am very proud to be a marathoner.
Do you prefer to run alone or with a buddy?
I love to run with my wife. We encourage each other to do our best and I always have her loving support and encouragement.
Favorite song on your playlist:
I run for Life, by Melissa Etheridge. The lyrics keep me going when I want to stop.
Who is your race hero and why?
My race hero’s are all the people who have lost a limb in the Boston Marathon, are not giving up and are getting back to running. They are the best inspiration to me.
What is the top race on your bucket list? 
Maui Half Marathon.
What has been the best physical side effect of your participation in races?
The best physical side effect of races is the joy of seeing my hard work paid off, and having an activity my wife and I can do together.
Your advice for others who might be intimidated by signing up for a race:
Sign up for a walk first, so you can get the concept of races. Put one foot in front of the other and keep going. You can do anything you put your mind to as long as you never give up. You will meet new friends that walk and run who will be there for you when you need them; I promise you that.
Anything else you’d like to add?
The Hottie Body Fitzness Challenge Group and Fitz are awesome! Having all of this support makes every day so much better! Having the workouts on Facebook takes out the guesswork of what to do and of how much to do at the gym. It has kept me going. Before, I would have given up, but now I have something to look forward to every day. I just want to say thanks to Fitz. You are an angel to my heart and I couldn’t have lost the weight I did without your help.
Awwww! Thanks Jason! You and Katie keep me going too. It matters so much to see that my work is actually having an impact on special people like you. Love, Fitz
