How and why did you start running and how many years have you been running?

I started running in 1996. I was in college and had stopped smoking and needed some motivation.

Why did you decide to do the Polar Bear Grand Prix?

The timing of this series motivates me to maintain fitness during the cold months. Plus, they are so fun! These races are "runners races" that don't need gimmicks or anything to make them successful. I get to run with my friends and neighbors and I love that.

Favorite distance?

10k - Long enough to combine strategy and fitness. Not so long that "just finishing" is the goal.

Favorite place to run?

Right outside my front door! I can turn left or right and go anywhere from 2-13 miles. Louisville does a pretty great job of accommodating runners on streets and sidewalks.

Favorite or most unique race you have run?

I used to host a "Beer Run" with my neighbors and I liked doing that a lot. I ran a "zombie run" thought Cherokee park in 2012/2013? where I was chased by zombies and it was terrifying.

Favorite thing about running?

It doesn't really really require a lot of gear and it's not gate-kept like so many other sports. Anyone can do it on any level. Plus the running community in Louisville is fabulous.

Do you have any running/walking advice you'd like to offer?

Cross train. Your knees will thank you. I picked up triathlon about 15 years ago and I think it's made me a a better runner AND allowed me to keep running.

Why do you like running River City Races events?

Again, these are "runners races" without all the sponsorship/gimmicky BS from other races. It's folks who want to put in the miles and good people who create a race series to make that happen.

Anything else you'd like to share?

When I was 19, I wrote my first check to my landlord for rent/deposit and my second check to LTCOR for the City Run. I still have my City Run shirt from 1996! I've always believed in the local running community and they've believed in me!