Runner or walker?

Runner, although I walk for a living (dog walker :-)

Reason you started running?

This past February ('07), I grew bored with my indoor cross-trainer, so I began running with one of my canine clients. It was a nice way to break up the day and for the first time ever, I found myself enjoying running (former cyclist, never a runner). It wasn't long before the dog and I were no longer compatible running partners, so I started running on my own. It seemed I could hold a decent pace, and I missed the competition from my bike racing days, so I decided to give racing a try. So far, so good!

When and why did you join the club?

Spring '07 - joined to meet new people and find training partners. I'd learned about the club through Chicago TriWomen. I was training with them for the Gay Games last summer (biking) and would receive the FrontRunner e-mail reminders about the Tuesday and Saturday runs. This made it rather convenient to just hop over to the other side. :-)

Favorite race distance?

So far, I think the 10k. It's short enough that my mind doesn't drift off into space, but not so short that I bust a lung.

Best race times so far ('07):

5k: 19:56

8k: 32:35

10k: 41:05

Favorite workout?

Mile repeats. Bring it on!

Favorite food?

I'm a sucker for baked goods or anything ooey-gooey. Thai food is also up there, as are coffee, chocolate, and all other things caffeinated.

Hints for running or walking all year?

Ahem, someone please tell me. ;)

Suggestions for staying injury-free?

I should probably be the student on this one, too, but have learned a few things already: 1) buy new sneakers every 300-500 miles (NOT every 700 miles!); 2) follow a comprehensive core-training program which includes lots of hip-strengthening exercises; and 3) use that foam roll.

Favorite movies:

Fried Green Tomatoes, Shawshank Redemption, Peaceable Kingdom, But I’m a Cheerleader

Music:

Hard rock (straight, white boy music. I'm a bad lesbian. :-). Favorite bands: Linkin Park, Breaking Benjamin

Favorite TV Shows:

Will and Grace, Simpsons, Law and Order

Who do you admire most?

Anyone not afraid to challenge ideas that most people tend to accept by default. Anyone giving of themselves, in general or to a cause.