Monument Avenue 10k
Racing Reflection

Monument Avenue 10k Recap: Quite the Monumental Race

Despite nearly two decades of running, I’d never registered for a 10k race. I’ve conquered everything from 5Ks to marathons, yet the 6.2-mile length was the one distance that eluded me. That all changed this past weekend, when I ran Richmond’s Monument Avenue 10k through the scenic streets of Virginia’s capital city steeped in American history.

Beautiful race setting aside, it wasn’t why I decided to run the race. It was another runner—a newer runner—who forced my hand, or, rather, feet into racing.

Virginia Beach marathon Shamrock Marathon
Racing Training

Virginia Beach Marathon Recap: Sub-Three Will Have to Wait

Last Sunday I ran the Virginia Beach Marathon, my sixth marathon and second attempt at breaking three hours. I’m in the best shape of my life thanks to completing the best training block of my running career. However, I finished just under 3:05—barely a PR, but I wanted more. I wanted the race clock to read 2:59:59 or below when I crossed the finish line. I didn’t train for a slight PR—I trained for a big 6-minute PR using the Pfitzinger 12 week/55-70 mile plan.

ATC10K
Events Racing

Around the Crown 10K: Redefining What a Race Can Be

How do you choose races to run? If you’re like me, you probably don’t consider a race’s impact on a community, its residents, or the planet. Guided by three pillars—inclusivity, sustainability, and elevating the city of Charlotte—Brian Mister, co-founder and race director of the Around the Crown 10K (ATC10K), provides a shining example of the transformative impact a race can have beyond race day.

I chatted with Mister about what makes the race unique and how it empowers the running community both in and outside the city.

Virginia Beach marathon
Racing Training

Virginia Beach Marathon: Breaking Three Hours, Attempt 2

How do I bounce back from a disappointing Marine Corps Marathon in which I failed to reach my sub-3-hour marathon goal? By getting back out on the roads and training even harder this winter. My sixth 26.2-mile trek and second attempt at breaking three hours will be the Virginia Beach Marathon (Shamrock) on March 17.

If I want to trim six minutes off my PR (3:05:51), I’ll need to tap into the “luck of the Irish” as I race on St. Paddy’s Day. Oh, and some training might help, too.

Marine Corps Marathon
MCM 2023 Racing Reflection

Marine Corps Marathon: Perspective Gained Amid Failure

Last Sunday, I ran the 2023 Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, DC — my fifth marathon and first with a sub-three-hour goal. The stage was set for a fairytale ending. Yet, despite the stars aligning, I fell like a crashing meteor. So, what went wrong? Well, I’m not one to make excuses, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the role of one very important element. Here’s what happened…