Carthage Invite

Last Friday Jan. 27th, I had my third indoor track at Carthage Invite. I ran the 3K at Carthage Invite. The 3K was the second event of the night right after the DMR, Distance Medly Relay. The 3K was afun race for that night cause I run for Greater Milwaukee Track Club, GMTC, & coach at Carroll University and got to run against two of my distance runners from Carroll Univeristy that I coach, Mark Hackett & Chris Behling & my GMTC club member James Strauss. Before the race I had a friend rivaly with Mark Hackett cause our seed time were close to each other. During the race I was last place like always but I felt like I was running better than I ever had and I thought to myself I might get a new pr in the 3K. Also, during the race as Mark Hackett was lapping my in the 3K he slap me on the butt and wasn't eccepting that I was just focus on the race. During the home straight away I saw that the time clock said 11:09 & I thought I am getting a pr and I could maybe get a 4 second pr of a time of 11:16 some I tried to push myself to get that 11:16 but I already was pushing myself to the limit and I didn't get a 11:16 but I did get a pr of 11:19. It was a one second pr but a pr none the less. Also, during the race I was surprised by Jay Sparks, who I help assitant coach at Carroll University was timing me and yell out my split every lap cause usally I have to count how many lap left I have and don't really know what my time is cause my GMTC coach usally doesn't time me in the 3K and/or 5K. I am so proud of my pr that I am hoping that I will get another pr this week at UW-Stevens Point Invite in the 5K

UW-Whitewater Invite

This past Saturday I had my second indoor track meet of the year, UW-Whitewater Invite at UW-Whitewater. I ran in two events the 3K & the 5K. When the week started out the 5k was to be at the start of the meet and the 3K at the end of the meet, but as the week rolled along there become two sections of the 3K for both the men and the women became an event at the start of the meet. The meet start out with section 2 of the 3K for the women and then the men, where I got a time of 11:42. I thought I would be faster in the 3K but my legs knew that I still had to run the 5K in less then an hour. I race at 10:45 am for the 3K. Then it was the Distance Medley Relay (DMR) and then it was the 5K, women were up first then I the men were up in 5K at 12:05. My heat of the 5K was to be at 11:45 but the DMR took longer so I got about a little more time to rest. During the 5K I just wanted to get a good time knowing that I just ran the 3K about an hour earlier. In the 5K I want to have a fast time so I tried to race fast but then that happened I was still to get a little dizzy, if I start to get dizzy I know that I might have a seziure and I did want that so I backed off a little bit. During the 5K I wanted to fin the middle ground between going to fast and going to slow and I couldn't find that middle ground so in the race I though to myself if I am just faster then 21 minutes I will be happy and I got a time of 20:27. I am think about ran the 3K & 5K in two more indoor track meet and I hope that I don't have to run the 3K & 5K within an hour of each other. My next meet is Carhage Invite where I will be running the 3K and helping coach/time Carroll Distance Runners in the 5K, Mile, 800, & women's 3K

The 21st Interview: Kenyon Neuman Interview

21 is my lucky number and the 21st Interview is a lucky interview and it is about Keyon Neuman

1. How did you get started in running?
I got started in running during my freshman year of high school. I was really frustrated that I didn't make the Varsity soccer team and I ran a 5-mile race with my dad and did pretty well. My dad and the XC coaches at my high school convinced me to run and so I did XC and soccer. I got 2nd in my first race and was the top guy on our team. That success really got me invested in it and I decided I would focus on running as opposed to soccer.

2. What do you tell people that don't get our sport of distance running?
I try to help people who don't understand running through just conveying what I feel when I run. I tell them why I like it and why they might like it too. Running isn't for everyone, but I think many people who find it hard and boring at the start can learn to love running once they do it for a few months, build some fitness and begin to feel the effect of endorphins and a sense of accomplishment. I don't know if I've met anyone who doesn't like to feeling they have after running. I find that people mostly don't like the effort, stress and/or pain of running while they're doing it at first.

3. What are you current PR's?
1500 m - 3:45
5,000 m - 13:40
10,000 m - 29:07
Half-Marathon - 64:50
Marathon - 2:22
 
4. How different is Professional Distance Running Then College Running, for you?
For me, running post-collegiately is very unique. My situation isn't very common. I wouldn't call myself a professional runner as I don't currently make a living through running. I work a full time job and try to train like a professional in the best way that I can. I'm very busy between work, running, some high school coaching and finding time to be social.

Running now is different from college in many ways (mostly in that I haven't had a team to train with, until recently when I joined Brad Hudson's group in Boulder). I also don't have many of the resources I had in college (travel funding, PT, Medical help, etc).

In many ways, it's the same. I'm very busy. I have responsibilities beyond just running. I have to perform at work as I did in school. Fitting the pieces of work/school and training together is difficult sometimes but worthwhile.  
5. Who are your favorite professional and/or college distance runner(s) past and/or present & why?
You know, I just like what all of the American distance runners are doing collectively right now. I don't like one runner more than any others unless I've had some positive or negative personal experience with someone. For the most part, runners are very friendly and humble people. The running community in our country is very easy going and approachable. I do like to cheer for my fellow buffs like Billy Nelson, Brent Vaughn, Dathan Ritzenhein, Jenny Barringer, Sarah Vaughn, Sarah Slattery, Steve Slattery, etc. I also love watching the current guys on the CU team. I love training and racing with the guys in our group and I love seeing them run well too. Fernando Cabada, James Carney and Patrick Rizzo all had inspiring performances at the US Olympic Trials last week and Tyler McCandless and I should be able to put together some solid marathon performances very soon. As I said though, most distance runners are very friendly, approachable humble people and I tend to like just about everyone I meet at any type of run or event.

A few of my past favorites are: Wilson Kipketer, Seb Coe, Peter Snell, Steve Jones and Zola Budd. I've had the opportunity to go on a few runs and have a couple meals with Zola. She is an incredibly smart, humble and friendly person. The times she ran barefoot are unbelievable as well! I don't know if many people are aware of what her barefoot PR's are...

6. Best or Worst thing about being a distance running?
Best thing about being a distance runner: Staying in shape and being able to eat a lot of calories

Worst thing about being a distance runner: Couldn't really say, I like everything about it. Sometimes you have to make sacrifices, which is good, but every once in a while running can get in the way of something you'd like to do.

7. Your Favorite Moment of your distance running career?
 Probably winning the Big 12 10k, taking 2nd in the Big 12 5k and winning the meet overall as a men's team at CU as a Junior. This meet was at home in Boulder and everyone showed up. We ended up winning and I believe we scored 91 points in the distance events alone. It was a great experience that I don't think any of the athletes or coaches who were part of that team will ever forget.
8. Goals for 2012?
I'd like to run closer to what I feel my potential is in the 1500 or mile, the steeple, the 5k and the 10k. I'd like to compete at the trials in Eugene in either the steeple, 5k or 10k. I'd also like to run another marathon on pace through the entirety of the distance. I was on about 2:13:30 pace through 21 miles at the Olympic Trials and then I really blew up over the last 3 miles. I really didn't feel that the 2:22 I ran was indicative of my ability. Mostly it was a fitness and fueling issue. I think I needed more calories in my bottles (or maybe I should have had a couple gels). I also was injured in the month of November and ran about 4 or 5 times that month. I'd like to toe the line in some good marathon shape...

The 20th Interview: Ben Marks Interview

The 20th Interview is about  Ben Marks

1. How did you get started in running?
I got strarted in running after I started helping out the Men's track team at UW-Oshkosh and decieded that I wanted to try my first ever 5K race freshman year of college. I have been hooked on running since

 2. What do you tell people that don't get our sport of distance running?
I tell that it's a way of life. Other people do not get other sports. Its a sport that anyone can try and you do not need to be the best or fastest runner out there. You could be the average runner like me

3. How do you manage being a college student with being a college distance runner?
I am not a college distance runner. But I asked Derek what he though about interviewing the average runner and he thought it was a great idea. I do coach at a local high school and also help the UW-Oshkosh track team. But how do I manage my time with running, coaching, and being a college student. I wake up early to get my running/work out in that way I do not have to worry about it later in the day.

4. Who are your favorite professional and/or college distance runner(s) past and/or present & why?
Ryan Hall and Josh Cox because when they are down they look at all the positive things they have in their life
5. Best or Worst thing about being a distance running?
The best thing about being a distance runner would be that I have found a sport that I never would of thought I would of liked till I came to Oshkosh. The worst thing about distance running is running in cold weather I hate it.
6. Your Favorite Moment of your distance running career?
My favorite moment for my running career would be finishing the Chicago Marathon.

7. Goals for 2012?
My goals for 2012 are I would like to run under 1 hour 45minutes for my half marathon and 4 hours for my full marathon

The 19th Interview: My #Indianatakeover bro Andy Weatherford Interview

The 19th Interview is about one hell of a college distance runner and my #Indianatakeover bro, Andy Weatherford.

1. How did you get started in running?
I started running in the 6th grade, I wanted to be a football player, but I was so little my Mom wouldn't let me. So instead I ran cross country in order to get in shape for basketball season and ended up winning a lot of races, I really liked winning, so I just stuck with it.

2. What do you tell people that don't get our sport of distance running?
Most people don't, but if they care to listen I tell them that its all about finding your own personal limits; we train everyday to see how far we can push our own bodies and to see where our limits are. Thats why we run.

3. What are you current PR's?
I've run 4:02 for a mile, 8:11 for a 3k, and 8:46 in the steeple
 
4. How do you manage being a college student with being a college distance runner?
I've talked with Coach Helmer about this, actually, and the realization I had during this conversation was that its not about managing or balancing these two commitments--its about doing what you need to do, and doing it everyday. This of course means a little less Skyrim and Call of Duty, but it also means devoting yourself to projects and commitments that are important enough to be made into priorities.
 
5. Who are your favorite professional and/or college distance runner(s) past and/or present & why?
Roger Bannister was my idol in the early years, the man dared the impossible and opened the door for the rest of us. Since then, though, I've met more and more people in this sport that inspire me with their courage and commitment to this sport, I don't know if I could pick just one or even a few.

6. Best or Worst thing about being a distance running?
Best: the camaraderie. I love being on runs with my Indiana boys, when we are traveling for races or out for another run in Bloomington, these guys are always clowning and having a good time--I've made some of my best friends through this sport and on this team.
Worst: ice baths, I hate those things. The worst part of my day, everyday.

7. Your Favorite Moment of your distance running career?
Thats a tough one. I was really happy with my 10th place finish at NCAA's in the steeple last spring... but De'Sean Turner and I had one hell of a race at the state meet Junior year in high school that was also pretty unforgettable. He's supposed to put the video up online sometime, but its the closest race I've ever been in and the most I've ever hurt. I won my second state title, but he made me work for it; I think our times were 4:08.72 and 4:08.79 or something like that--a real photo finish, it was a great race and the start of our friendship which ended up bringing us both to Bloomington.

8. Goals for 2012?
I'd like to run 8:35 or faster in the Steeplechase, earn a Big Ten Medal and another All-American certificate. If I could get qualified for the Trials in June, I'd be absolutely ecstatic...I'm just taking one day at a time though, and making the most of every opportunity to get better, that way I can be happy with my results, knowing I gave myself the best shot I could to succeed.

I hope you guys are liking the interview with Professional/College Distance Runners

First Official Indoor Race & Pr

I had my first official indoor track meet this weekend, Sat. Jan. 14th, Point Alumni Meet and I ran in the 3K. The 3K was the longest race of the meet and I say the long the race on the track the better. The first heat of the 3K was full of Steven Point Runners and I was in the second heat with 12 men running the 3K in that heat. I knew that I was the slowest runner of the heat so I had to make up ground right from the beginning and I did I held them off until 10 laps left to go before they passed aka laped me then I was running on my own and in my own race. I felt fast for until I got to 3 laps left I went faster then I thought cause the last three laps felt like 1 lap cause I was going faster and faster. In my mind, I thought, there is no way that I could get under 11:30 but I did. At UW-Milwaukee Tune-Up Meet I did the 3K and I got a pr of 4 seconds and the time of 11:26 so I thought I was going to go backward to 11:30 but I didn't I got a 6 second pr, 11:20. After I hear that I was telling everyone that I got a 6 second pr and I felt like Ryan Hall after got second place at Olympic Marathon Trials earlier. I just wanted to thank everyone who was cheering for me like my Greater Milwaukee Track Club Members, Amy & Nick Fix, and the Steven Point Distance Guys, my bros/family. Also, I ran this race for my fellow cat, Mark Mitchell and also for one of the reason that I run long runs and races, Ryan Hall. Next week I am at UW-Whitewater running in the 5K

The 18th Interview: A.J. Acosta Interview

The 18th Interview is about on colorful distance runner, Former Oregon Duck Distance Runner A.J. Acosta

1. How did you get started in running?
I got into running by chance really. I grew up playing basketball and baseball and only did track to get in shape for the other two.

2. What do you tell people that don't get our sport of distance running?
"Yes I made the Olympic Trials. No, I havent made the Olympic Team, that race is in June. Yes, I run 80 miles a week."

3. What are you current PR's?
3:53 for the Mile, 3:36 1500m, 13:46 5000m
4. How different is Professional Distance Running Then College Running, for you?
A lot more time being a professional (although one could argue that I'm not a professional, as professionals get paid). I've taken advantage of the extra time though by catching up on sleep and watching copious amounts of Louie, The Wire (for the 7th and 8th time) and some light reading as well (Vonnegut's Hocus Pocus and David Foster Wallace's Infinite Jest).

5. Who are your favorite professional and/or college distance runner(s) past and/or present & why?
I wasn't like every other kid, with respect to having idols, you know? Anne Kesselring's a real hero of mine. And Brian Rhodes-Devey. BRD would be another person who's a hero. The running he's done over the years, I don't really watch it, but the fact that he's doing it, I respect that. I care desperately about what I do. Do I know what workout's im doing? No. Do I know where I'm racing next time? No. But I'm here, and I'm gonna give it my best shot.

6. Best or Worst thing about being a distance running?
Long runs and Tempos.

7. Your Favorite Moment of your distance running career?
1,2,3 at NCAA's in 2010

8. Goals for 2012?
Making the team along w/ a thousand other runners

The 17th Interview: My Best Bro Drew Shields Interview

The 17th Interview is my best bro Drew Shields. I love tis guy more than a bro he is like family to me.

1. How did you get started in running?
I got started in 8th grade when was at the time playing basketball and baseball and ran track to see what that was about. Ended up having the most success in the distance races so I stuck with those, then i played football my freshman year in high school, and somehow talked myself into running track again in the spring, had some more success and decided to dedicate myself to the sport.

2. What do you tell people that don't get our sport of distance running?
when the gun goes off, whoever gets to the finish line first wins. It's not too complicated.

3. What are you current PR's?
1500- 347, 3k steeple- 849, 3k flat- 805

4. How do you manage being a college student with being a college distance runner?
It's tough, just have to realize sacrifices must be made, and they are usually made so the education side gets the short end of the stick over running. Usually it's not a huge problem though

5. Who are your favorite professional and/or college distance runner(s) past and/or present & why?
It's always awesome watching Wisconsin Alums doing well.

6. Best or Worst thing about being a distance running?
Best thing- The camaraderie of the team with common goal. I'm a very competitive person so it's nice to be able to still be competing at this level. 

7. Your Favorite Moment of your distance running career?
winning the NCAA title this past fall.
That is the best moment ever

8. Goals for 2012?
Make D-Rubis proud.

Drew you already make me proud.

The 16th Interview: My Bro for Life Billy Nelson Interview

The 16th Interview is about Steeplechaser Billy Nelson. Billy Nelson is the reason that I run.

1. How did you get started in running?
My best friend Nick Cramer talked me into running after years of trying in the 8th grade. I immediately feel in love with it

2. What do you tell people that don't get our sport of distance running?
I just tell people it is a sport in which you challenge only yourself. It's you against you, granted there are plenty of other people in the race, but ultimately you are racing yourself. Trusting the work that you put in. Plus, there is nothing like running a long run, in a place that you have never been, seeing the sites of a new city, or country, the way it was intended to be seen; the country roads, the quiet forests, etc. Distance running is being free.

3. What are you current PR's?
My current PRs are:
3:42 for 1500m
8:00 for 3000m
8:17 for 3000m Steeplechase
13:46 for 5000m

4. How did you get started in Steeplechasing?
 I steeplechased for the first time in high school. We had some summer meets, that included a 2000m steeple chase. I really enjoyed it. My senior year we had the race at our home invitational (uncommon for California high school), I love it. I won in 9:35 (with the water pit in the middle of a grass turn). I hoped to continue that in College and Coach Wetmore gave me a chance my red-shirt Sophomore year)

5. How different is Professional Distance Running Then College Running, for you?
For me the main difference is less racing and more training, which I actually enjoy. I never thought I would but I do. I mean I love to race, its why I do this sport, but going into a race fully prepared and focused is something special. Every race matters and is important. Toeing the line knowing you put months of training in for this race and then seeing it pay off at the end is always an enjoyable experience. However, I do miss the team atmosphere of working with teammates to win a championship, etc

6. Who are your favorite professional and/or college distance runner(s) past and/or present & why?
My favorite distance runners would include Emil Zatopek, Billy Mills, and Adam Goucher. Mainly because of their work ethic, their drive and their heart. Each of these athletes embodied the spirit of "giving it everything you've got." And I feel that I connect with them on that level. Emil Zatopek was one of the toughest dudes to lace up the spikes and he also accomplished something that no one will ever match (triple crown of 5k, 10k, Marathon Gold at the Helsinki Olympics), Billy Mills used his doubters and struggles to rise above adversity and become a champion and he is one of the most down to earth, nicest people I have ever met, and Adam is a hero of mine because he raced every race like it was his last, whether it was an indoor collegiate meet at Air Force Academy, the conference meet, the NCAA Nationals, Olympics, etc. He gave 100 percent every time. He taught me a lot about myself and running during my first few years at CU and I'll never forget that.

and you are my favorite distance runner ever

7. Best or Worst thing about being a distance running?
The best thing about being a distance runner is loving your job and not being in a office to do it. (I am also an assistant coach at CU, so I have an office, but being on the trails or the track for work, isn't work to me). The worst thing I would say is long runs in negative weather in ice and snow. But, without overcoming obstacles, one will never reap rewards!

8. Your Favorite Moment of your distance running career?
My favorite moment of my career is easily making the Olympic Team in 2008. Wearing the "USA" on your chest at the Olympic Games is something that can never be matched in the sport of running.

9. Goals for 2012?
My goals for 2012 will be to make the Olympic Team, make the final in London, as well as go sub-8:15 in the Steeplechase

The 15th Interview: My Wisconsin Bro/Family Reed Connor Interview

The 15th Interview is about my Wisconsin Bro/Family Reed Connor. One of the Distance Runners out there today that I look up to.

1. How did you get started in running?
I started going to cross country practice in 8th grade because the basketball coach wanted us to get in shape for basketball. Basically xc practices was running one lap around the school (3/4 mile), hard days were 2 laps. At this time in my life I refused to pay for my own clothing and my wardrobe consisted entirely of free t-shirts. One day at xc practice the coach handed out free t-shirts that were leftover from the high school Nike South xc meet. When I found out that giving away free t-shirts was common practice in running I decided to join the xc team in high school.

2. What do you tell people that don't get our sport of distance running?
I don’t tell them anything. I don’t even understand the sport sometimes, so I doubt they have a chance.

3. What are you current PR's?
3:44.52, 7:53.88, 13:48.59

4. How do you manage being a college student with being a college distance runner?
Being a college runner means your running and school are never as good as they could be. Sometimes running has to win and other times school does. The goal is to find that balance where you are achieving what you want to in both areas.

5. Who are your favorite professional and/or college distance runner(s) past and/or present & why?
Don’t really have any consistent favorites. Every season I have different people I want to watch fail or succeed. That being said I always tend to find myself cheering for Wisco alum.

6. Best or Worst thing about being a distance running?
Chafing… nothing worse than coming back from a run with bloody nipples or a rubbed raw sack.
7. Your Favorite Moment of your distance running career?
Winning NCAA Cross Country this year as a team. Pretty much everyone on the team came to UW to win that race and it’s always nice to accomplish what you set out to do.

8. Goals for 2012?
Same goal as every year… keep on improving. I figure if I get better each year I have nothing to complain about.

The 14th Interview: Anthony Solis Interview

This is 14th Interview and it is about Anthony Solis and he is an elite distance runner for adidas-Legacy Run Racing training in Southern California. He's recovering from a minor sports hernia and is getting ready to roll this track season.

1. How did you get started in running?
I got started my freshman year of High School to prove to my dad I could be a better runner than he was, and I've just stuck with it ever since.

2. What do you tell people that don't get our sport of distance running?
I just tell people that I do this for the pure competition aspect of it. It feels great to go out and compete against other athletes that are working their asses off as well.
3. What are you current PR's?
My current PR's are 14:20 for 5k(2010), and 29:38 for 10k(2011). But those will drop drastically this track season I guarantee it.
4. How different is Professional Distance Running Then College Running, for you?
I wouldn't consider my professional just yet, but being considered an "Elite" when you enter races is pretty cool. But I say the biggest difference is being able to put your runs and workouts in on your own schedule. Also being able to accept prize money from races is a big difference.

5. Who are your favorite professional and/or college distance runner(s) past and/or present & why?
I've looked up to Meb since I first started running and have always enjoyed watching his races. I'd also have to say Charlie Serrano and Jimmy Grabow, who are teammates of mine for adidas-Legacy Run Racing. You can catch them at the Trials this weekend!

6. Best or Worst thing about being a distance running?
I say the best part would have to be the friends that you make throughout the years, and finding out that younger runners actually look up to you. The worst thing is definitely the post tempo "runs" because my stomach is always jacked up after.

7. Your Favorite Moment of your distance running career?
My favorite moment of my career this far would have to be representing Team USA at the 2009 Jr Pan Am games with Parker Stinson and everyone else who made that team.
 
8. Goals for 2012?
Goals for 2012 are: Sub 29:00min 10k, sub 14min 5k, 64:30 1/2Marathon. And of course getting a qualifying time for the Oly Trials in the 10k would be icing on the cake.
I am hoping you guys are loving the Professional/College Distance Runner Interviews as much as I am

The 13th Interview: Nathan Brannen Interview

The Unlucky number 13th Interview is about Nathan Brannen and I think this is a lucky interview. Nathan Brannen , if you don't know, was Alan Webb's roommate when they were at University of Michigan

1. How did you get started in running?

I am involved in sports at a very young age and participated in everything. Hockey was a huge part of my childhood and the dream of playing in the NHL one day was a dream on mine. This quickly changed around age 12 when I realized my size just wasn't adequate for being a professional hockey player. I was always a very good runner and in the ninth grade I decided to give it a go and started getting a little more serious.

2. What do you tell people that don't get our sport of distance running?

I think things have changed a lot in the past few years and more people are getting involved in running and paying more attention to the sport. Usain Bolt has had a huge impact of the sport of track and field which has brought a lot more attention to our sport. Other athletes like Ryan Hall has brought more light specifically to distance running and the marathon. Both have been great for our sport in different ways.

3. What are you current PR's?
800- 1:46.00
1000m- 2:17.34
1500- 3:34.65
mile- 3:52.63
3000m (indoor)- 7:47.90
5000m- 13:43.19

4. How different is Professional Distance Running Then College Running, for you?

The major difference is I now have more time to really focus on the smaller things. The thing I liked about college was there was a focus outside of running. It was very easy to take myself out of the sport and focus on something just as important and that was my education. Without school, I'm able to fully focus on running but have found things in my personal life to help take my head away from the sport when needed.
5. Who are your favorite professional and/or college distance runner(s) past and/or present & why?

There are a lot of athletes that I look up to in our sport and have a lot of respect for. I love watching the guys in the 100 and the ease at which they run sub 10 seconds. I imagine how sweet it would be to fly down the track at that speed.

6. Best or Worst thing about being a distance running?

I don't think this relates just to distance running but to athletes in general but I think the worst thing about being an athlete is the selfishness needed to make it to the top. I'm lucky enough to have a great wife at home who understands what I'm doing and who I'm trying to be. I'm away from home training and racing most of the year and for someone who doesn't understand our sport it would be very hard to understand and support. The best thing about running is the head to head competition. I love getting out there and putting it all on the line to see who is best on that given day.

7. Your Favorite Moment of your distance running career?

As of now my most memorable moments of my career are winning the silver medal at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, Australia and competing at my first Olympic Games at the 2008 Games in Beijing, China.

8. Goals for 2012?
My 2012 goals are...
1. Healthy
2. Olympic finalist
3. PR's in the 800, 1500 and mile.

Like I said 13 is a lucky number and so is this interview & I hope there are more interviews to come

The 12th Interview: The Great Steeplechaser Kyle Perry Interview

The 12th Interview is about about a great Steeplechaser Kyle Perry.

1. How did you get started in running?
I got my start in running in highschool when I couldn't ride my bike in the winter due to snow so I started running to train for biking. Then I met a cute girl on the team and had to stick around. 
2. What do you tell people that don't get our sport of distance running?
people who don't get our sport I say it gets a lot better after consistent training... And it's the competition aspect I like. Running is as much or more a sport of improving yourself rather than beating someone else. Also running is more friendly than other sports. We're all part of the running family.

3. What are you current PR's?
my current Prs are
Mile 3:59.16
3k 7:51.28
Steeple 8:29.25
5k 13:34
4. How did you get started in Steeplechasing?
I got started in steeple chase because my college teammate josh Mcadams was so good at it and I wanted to be like him.

5. How different is Professional Distance Running Then College Running, for you?
professional running is different than college because it's more about pleasing the sponsor than improving and chipping away at the pr. I liked college a lot more and think I may go sponsor free for a while to make running more of my release from work than my work
6. Who are your favorite professional and/or college distance runner(s) past and/or present & why?
my favorite runners are josh Mcadams, he's always been a friend and motivator, chris solinsky. He is as nice a guy as anyone I've met and he's amazing. Miles Batty is a friend and impresses me with how hard work always pays more dividends then talent.

7. Best or Worst thing about being a distance running?
the worst part about being a distance runner is injury. I am currently recovering from knee surgery from an injury that made my 2011 miserable. I'm excited to get back Into the competitive mix.

8. Your Favorite Moment of your distance running career?
favorite moment of my career was winning my prelim heat of the 2009 NCAA championships and having my teammate rich Nelson win heat 2. We were suddenly sure that we could run with anyone in the country and it led to my championship but the prelim was so fun cause it's always better to share success with a close friend

9. Goals for 2012?
my goals for 2012 are first.... Bouncing back from knee surgery, running fast enough to make the trials, and then give it a shot for London. Baby steps for now.

Another amazing Interview by another Professional Distance Runner/Steeplechaser

The 11th Interview:The Great Steeplechase Anthony Famiglietti Interview

The 11th Interview is about one of my Steeplechase God and one of the reasons that I am still running, Anthony Famiglietti

1. How did you get started in running?

My very first race was in elementary school. It was a field day event and I passed out at the halfway point. I went out too fast in the race and blacked out. I remember waking up to my mom and teachers standing over me. That was my very first introduction to running.

2. What do you tell people that don't get our sport of distance running?
I try my best to inspire them to run. I think we should all present ourselves as ambassadors of the sport and not treat distance running like an exclusive club. I'm not a fan of the word "elite".

3. What are you current PR's?

1500 3:35 Mile 3:55 5k 13:11 Steeple 8:17 10k 27:37. I'm working to lower some of these this year. Almost all of my PRs were run in the US. The opportunity to race in Europe in a fast field under the right training conditions never really coalesced. I look forward to the day that it does. Problem is, I love racing in the US more than anything

4. How did you get started in Steeplechasing?

My high school coach forbid me to race the steeple, he said it was too dangerous. That only made me more curious and hungry to try it. College coach let me try it once at the very last meet of freshman season. After that he directed me more towards the 5k. My second steeple came during my sophomore year at an early season track meet at UNC Charlotte. My coach had me entered in a flat 3k. I was upset because I specifically wanted to take a shot at the steeple again and my coach flat out said no. I secretly entered myself into the steeple once we got to the meet. I snuck off to warm up for the steeple and the coach caught me. He said, "the 3k doesn't start for 3 hours why are you warming up?" I told him my plan to run the steeple and he was quite upset. We debated for a bit after which I simply said, "I'm racing it." Aggravated the coach finally gave in, but he only agreed on the terms that I'd still run the flat 3k after the steeple as punishment. He also said, "Don't expect any splits from me, you're on your own." I raced the steeple to a big PR that day. I had absolutely no idea of my pace or splits until the coach ran over to the fence with a lap to go when he saw that I might break nine minutes. I set the track steeplechase record that day at UNCC and it stood for a long time. I also set my school record for the flat 3k an hour or so later. I was a steeplechaser from then on.

5. How different is Professional Distance Running Then College Running, for you?

I miss running with a team. The camaraderie and group effort is a great feeling. As a professional I have not had that in eleven years. You have to be ten times as disciplined and self motivated to make it in the pros. You're mostly on your own in every way. I think the new elite groups that have emerged the past few years are a great step in the right direction. The main downside to the groups is that they are brand biased. If you do not run for the particular running brand that sponsors each group, you cannot be a part of the team. I had also once asked a very well known top elite coach in the past to coach me. He turned me away on the grounds that I was not sponsored with the brand that was funding him. That kind of bias has been hurting American running for a long time. Instead of American running developing as a whole together, you have this brand vs that brand etc.


6. Who are your favorite professional and/or college distance runner(s) past and/or present & why?

I tend to root for the underdogs. As far as professional runners go I like some runners from way back. Louis Zamperini is interesting, Ellison "Tarzan" Brown. I like looking way back to the early runners of the Irish American Athletic Club. Guys like John Baxter Taylor Jr, Abel Kiviat, "Peerless Mel" Sheppard. I think it would be amazing to have that kind of club again in the US.


7. Best or Worst thing about being a distance running?

Best thing, transformation in every sense of the word. Worst things about distance running, greed and vanity in the form of cheaters who care only about increasing their profile and making easy money. Greed also in the form of bureaucracy and antiquated rules that make administrators wealthy and athletes struggle. 
8. Your Favorite Moment of your distance running career?

A solo trail run on my favorite single track trail. That and racing for my own running apparel brand Reckless Running. Racing for Reckless Running has afforded me incredible freedom in running that I have never experienced before. I plan to help other runners experience and be a part of that soon.

9. Goals for 2012?

Make my third Olympic team in the steeplechase and return to the United States with hardware. Inspire as many runners as possible along the way.

I think that this my favorite interview so far and I hope there is more great interviews from Distance Runners to come

The 10th Interview: Wisconsin's Own Mike Brice Interview

The 10th Interview is about One of the guys from the DI XC National Champs, Wisconsin and he is Mike Brice

1. How did you get started in running?
I began running in 7th grade after my parents talked to me about running. After one track season I realized that running is what I wanted to pursue and began to focus solely on cross country and track once I entered high school.

2. What do you tell people that don't get our sport of distance running?
I think explaining what runners do and why they do it is one of the more difficult questions that distance runners face. I think it is different for each athlete, but for me it comes down to enjoying competition and trying to get better every day.

3. What are you current PR's?
My current pr's are 30:30 in the 10k and 14:45 in the 5k.

4. How do you manage being a college student with being a college distance runner?
Being a student-athlete is certainly a challenge that is faced by athletes of all sports. I think distance running is particularly difficult due to having three seasons of competition, but I also think that it has been a part of my life for so long that I have become use to doing everything else around my training schedule.
 
5. Who are your favorite professional and/or college distance runner(s) past and/or present & why?
My favorite distance runners are Tim Hacker and Chris Solinsky. Both are Wisconsin natives and Badger alumni that I have looked up to since I was a child. 

6. Best or Worst thing about being a distance running?
The worst thing about distance running is the daily grind that everyone must go throught if they are trying to improve. This, however, has a lot to do with the best thing which is the close friends that are made with the indivduals who chase these goals with you.
7. Your Favorite Moment of your distance running career?
 My favorite moment of my running career was winning the national championship this cross country season. It was an incredible experience and will never be forgotten.

8. Goal in 2012?
My goal for this year is to keep getting better. I think this was a great year, but something that I need to build off of in the future.

I hope you guys are liking this interviews and there is more interviews on the way

The 9th Interview: Wisconsin Great Distance Runner Zachary Mellon Interview

The 9th Interview is about the great Wisconsin Distance Runner Zachary Mellon.

1. How did you get started in running?
I believe my start in running was something that God worked in my life. I was never into sports much or exercising, but in 8th grade I had a friend say I couldn't hack track and field, that along with a gym teacher who liked to blow smoke to his students to get them to come out for sports (he convinced I would win races when I ran 6:57 for the mile in class), got some wheels turning. So, I went out for it and after the first three days I wanted to quit so bad, but I stayed with it for reasons that are beyond me.

2. What do you tell people that don't get our sport of distance running?
I would like to tell people something I have begun to learn myself this year: Racing the way we race takes hard work. That may seem trite but it is something I believe few truly have a grasp on. To do what we do, you have to lose that innate sense of entitlement and realize that nothing comes without trials and that you are no more deserving than anyone else. If you want it you have to earn, and if you fail you have to work harder (which also entails knowing when to take easy).

3. What are you current PR's?
400 - :47.2 (split)
800 - 1:47.45
1500 - 3:46
Mile - 4:11

4. How do you manage being a college student with being a college distance runner?
I don't know (ha ha ha). It's tough and requires organization and a focus I don't quite have.

5. Who are your favorite professional and/or college distance runner(s) past and/or present & why?
My favorite runner is an old high school teammate of mine. I used to chase him around the track my freshman year in high school. He was the best on our team and one of the best in the state and I wanted to emulate him so bad, but could never beat him. He definitely inspired me and played a huge role in helping me develop into the runner I am. Favorite pro runner: Craig Miller. Favorite college runner: Austin Mudd & the rest of our wolf pack. WP4L.

6. Best or Worst thing about being a distance running?
Best thing about it is when you get to do it with a team. Worst thing about it is doing it by yourself.

7. Your Favorite Moment of your distance running career?
 My favorite moment is when Landon Peacock won 2010 Big Tens XC.

8. Goals in 2012?
My goals are to stay healthy, have fun, train hard, and help our mid distances group become better.

The 8th Interview: The Great Marathon Tyler McCandless Interview

The 8th interview that I got is about the great marathoner Tyler McCandless Interview. This a guy is also a  guy who ran a lot more miles than anyone I know about 5100 miles and ran 521 times in 2011.

1. How did you get started in running?
I got started in running to get in shape for soccer, but ended up having more success in track and enjoyed it more than soccer.

2. What do you tell people that don't get our sport of distance running?
This isn't a sport where you get lucky and are in the right position for the game winning touchdown or goal. This is a sport that requires patience and delayed gratification. However, the tougher the challenge, the greater the result.

3. What are you current PR's?
29:15 for 10k on the track while running in college for Penn State. 1:04:59 for the half-marathon and 2:17:09 for the marathon.
4. How different is Professional Distance Running Then College Running, for you?
Very different in terms of competition not focused on three seasons (xc, indoor, outdoor) but in terms of whatever peak race(s) you want to do. I've been lucky to meet some really good friends through the sport after college though because you make more friends outside of your team and have better relationships with race directors, staff, and volunteers.

5. Who are your favorite professional and/or college distance runner(s) past and/or present & why?
Most of my favorite runners are from the 80s generation with guys like Benji Durden, Kyle Heffner, Bill Rodgers, Dick Beardsley, Frank Shorter, and that generation that was not afraid to race.

6. Best or Worst thing about being a distance running?
The best thing is being surrounded by a fantastic running community. I firmly believe there's no more positive community around a sport in the country.
7. Your Favorite Moment of your distance running career?
Winning the Kauai Marathon was very special because I worked very hard to prepare for the heat and spent a lot of money to travel to Hawaii for the race.

8. Goals for 2012?
Stay healthy and improve are always goals. Specifically finishing in the top ten at the Olympic Marathon Trials would be a great start. Running a personal best in the marathon is another important goal for me in 2012.
I hope you guys are getting insight into some of these Professional/College Distance Runners