2025/26 Polar Bear Grand Prix Grandmaster Champion

I started running in 7th grade when my best friend asked me to run track with him at Rosemount Middle School in Minnesota. That was 49 years ago. I haven't stopped running for more than a few months since then. I ran my first marathon in 1983, the second running of the Twin Cities Marathon, inspired by the Alberto Salazar / Dick Beardsley "Duel in the Sun" 1982 Boston Marathon (Google that!).

Since then, I've run countless races of all lengths from 50ks, marathons, half marathons, and shorter races. I love trail running as much as I love the roads. I ran solo for years until rediscovering the joy of running with groups about a dozen years ago. After a move from Minnesota to Indianapolis, I led the half marathon spring training program for Indy Runners, with more than 150 participants.

After a move to Louisville, I met my "twin", the legendary Lowery Stallings, and his team, Rabbit Trail Running, which got me involved in the Polar Bear Grand Prix. This series is a great way to keep active in the winter, and fuel competitiveness for each race and the full series.

I run for physical health, mental health, and to challenge myself. I have learned that my brain and my soul need physical activity, the outdoors, the opportunity for a break from the rest of the world, and the opportunity to connect with kindred spirits.

Running is a lifelong sport. I am fortunate to run with a diversity of people, young, old, different genders and races. It broadens me as a person and develops lifelong friendships. I am blessed to be able to run.