Many years ago, it was for reasons young men do anything: to meet girls. A few years ago, I had lung surgery to repair a recurring collapsed lung. Each long distance race I run is giving the proverbial middle finger to people who said I couldn’t/shouldn’t be running.
Do you walk, run or run/walk, swim, cycle, do obstacles?
I run the half marathons and run/walk marathons. I am waiting for a triathlon to come along where only a couple of laps in the pool would cover the swimming part.
What distances do you do?
My favorite is the half marathon. I also do marathons and 10Ks.
How many have you done?
Six marathons, eight half marathons, and countless 10Ks.
What do you feel is your greatest race accomplishment?
Running my first half marathon (2013, Disney Marathon Weekend). After so many years of running 10Ks, a half marathon seemed nuts.
Favorite race and why?
The Athens Marathon. It is the original marathon course and the crowd support is over the top.
Do you travel for races?
The travel motivates me to follow through on the training. I do one or two local races a year, but the hassle usually isn’t worth it when I can just go out for a run.
Does your race schedule become expensive? How do you afford to make it happen?
Anything involving Disney or overseas isn’t cheap. You definitely need to budget properly and accrue frequent flier miles to take the edge off the bill for longer trips.
Must-have gear on race day:
iPhone for podcasts and music. Hokas for the long runs.
Weirdest place you’ve ever chafed:
Probably my inner right knee due to a knee brace on the left knee. It was a bloody mess. That race also involved runner’s knee (brace was useless) and cramping, so I didn’t even notice the chaffing until the finish. Remind me why I do this?
Do you prefer to run in warm weather or cold weather?
Warm, but you’re asking me in winter. Ask me again in July.
Favorite pre-race meal/snack:
I don’t have a set menu, but it has to involve coffee.
Weirdest/funniest thing you’ve ever experienced at a race:
A guy yelling “You’re almost there!” at mile one of a marathon. That cracked me up.
Worst experience during a race:
First marathon, the 2014 Disney. I didn’t train properly and had never run more than 14 miles before that day. The slog from ESPN to the finish made for some dismal race photos.
Most awesome moment you’ve ever had at a race:
The morning of the Athens Marathon, each town along the way has their own kids’ races. When you run through those towns, the kids are so proud of their medals. They’re cheering you on so earnestly that you can’t help but get an emotional lift.
Your favorite part of participating in races:
It’s got to be the volunteers. Having them out there is such a luxury.
Do you wear costumes? If so, what’s been your favorite?
No, I look silly enough.
How important are awesome medals to you?
I think they say something about the quality of the race, so important but not the end-all-be-all.
Best medal you’ve earned so far:
The Everest Challenge compass medals were cool. I’m going to jinx myself but the Star Wars medals in April will trump all
Do you prefer to run alone or with a buddy?
It depends on my mood. Some days I just need someone to get by butt in gear.
Favorite song on your playlist:
Any run where Jimi Hendrix comes up in shuffle mode is a good run.
Who is your race hero and why?
Jeff Galloway is such a genuinely nice guy. He was helpful getting my marathon training right, after the first debacle.
What is the top race on your bucket list?
I’m not very ambitious, but I want to get to Disneyland for a race.
What has been the best physical side effect of your participation in races?
Stress relief. Kind of ironic since planning for some of these races can be such a stress inducer.
Your advice for others who might be intimidated by signing up for a race:
Train properly and run your own race. Don’t worry about what others are doing on the course.
Anything else you’d like to add?
For more information about my rock star lifestyle, including nonsensical sports opinions and complaints about traffic, I’m @JoeLaszlo on Twitter.
