Every runner has a story, which pushes and drives them to do what they do. It's fascinating learning about others, and in return it also inspires and motivates.
This week I'd like to introduce Shawn. I asked Shawn several questions, to tell part of his story and introduce you to him.
Shawn Blogs at
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| Color Me Run |
Tell us what distances you like to run?
Right now I am focusing on around a 5k. I plan to reach marathon distance, but honestly, the distance that I like to run is where I just run. I have had times where I just end up in the zone and gone 6 miles when I meant to do 3. Those are my favorite runs.
How long have you been running?
I have always liked running. I did not do track because I had a fat track coach, but I was focused on sprints back then. I got into more distance when I went to college. That way I could spend a lot of time on the treadmill next to cute girls.
What made you want to become a runner? What is it that keeps you at it?
For me it is a huge stress relief. Also, when I run I have ridiculously deep thoughts, I think that I kind of fun.
What is the furthest distance or race you have ever run?
The furthest that I have ever gone is 12 miles, but by this time the farthest that I will have gone will be more than 26 miles.
What has been your favorite race and distance you have run? Tell us why?
I have only ran 2 official races at this point; the first was color me rad. That was just for fun...and it was. The second was a real 5k and I was proud of my finish. I finished 92 out of 666 racers, that is not bad for it only being my second race, and I was in the top 11 of my age category...I did get beat by two 11 year olds and a 10 year old...but they were not in my age category!
If you could run any race in the entire world, where would it be and why?
I think it would be fun to run through the trails of the Amazon...I don't know if that is a race...maybe I should start it.
Do you run for fun? Or run to compete? Both?
I run mostly for fun, but sometimes my competitiveness comes out.
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| Bum Run |
Have you ever won a race or placed in your age group?
In 4th grade we had a bobsled race. We had groups of 3 that designed the bobsleds, ours was a cardboard box that a fridge came in cut and duct taped to make it more aerodynamic. We had one person from our group sit in the sled, and then the other 2 pulled the sled in a race...we won that one. They gave us a rock, about the size and shape of the Olympic medals, painted it gold, and tied it with ribbon around our necks. Life was great back then.
Have you experienced any trials/injuries/health issues that you have had to overcome? Tell us about them.
We have all had trials, but in regards to running...When I was 22 I had an operation in my chest. The Dr burned some of my nerves off on my spine. While he was doing this he accidentally burned little holes in my lungs. About a week and a half later my lungs had separated from the chest cavity and were mostly deflated. I had to have an emergency chest surgery (WITH NO ANETHSTETIC!) to press my lungs against my chest, re-inflate them, and let the holes heal. I have not been able to breath like I use to since. When I work out my breathing always sounds so labored.
I also had my ankle ran over by a 1/2 ton truck about 3 months ago, and I had a torn meniscus about 2 years ago, but this cant stop me from running.
If you run races. Tell us what crossing the finish line feels like to you.
I race against myself mostly. I really don't care right now where I finish in relation to others, my goal is usually to beat my PR.
Have you ever ran a race in costume? Would you?
NEVER NEVER NEVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Do you have a funny running story to share? or funny experience while running?
There are a lot of people who like to walk on the trail that I run on. I love to sneak up on people as I am running (usually they are talking and not really paying attention) then as I pass them, just inches separating our shoulders, I kick it in a gear. Usually I get 'oh' they stop walking for a sec, then they laugh. I was doing this to a couple who was about 60. She let the sharpest shrill out like she had seen a mouse and ended up stumbling into her husband. She tripped on his feet and fell to the ground. Then she started laughing. I felt bad and went back to help her up and we had a good laugh about it.
When someone asks you why you run, what do you tell them?
I tell them that when I run it is just me and the wind. That is what I love about running.
Do you hope to be a lifelong runner?
You mean do I want to finish a 5k with a walker...I think that would be awesome, and would probably get me on the news.
What states have you run races in?
Utah
What is your favorite kind of running, solo running or running with a friend or group?
I love solo running. I have not found someone who works with me as far as a group run.
Do you cross train? What types?
Right now I am playing with the idea of a tri. So I have upped the amount of time that I spend on a bike. I know that I should get in the pool more, but I am not the champion swimmer, and so I am putting it off.
Ultimate Frisbee every Thursday!!! Does NASCAR count as a hobby...or a sport? My dad says that it does not. Reading: The Ant and the Elephant is the best book ever.
Do you have any tips of suggestions for someone who is thinking of starting up running?
Find your schedule and stick to it! With that schedule include stretching and nutrition too. Also include breaks and rewards, these will help prevent running from seaming like a chore.
What is your must have running accessory?
Shorts
What is the best thing you have learned from being a runner?
The best thing that I have learned from being a runner, solving life's problems. Running does not have all the answers to life, but I can not tell you how many times I have been stressed or confused or lost in life and I go for a run to find a solution.
What do you do with your race t-shirts and medals? Do you wear them proud or display them for all your guests to see? Do you do something unique with them?
The races I have gone to put out cotton shirts. Running in cotton is not the best for your training. The shirts usually are not cool enough for me to wear in everyday things, so they turn into my kids PJs and my play shirts.
Tell us something unique about you.
My secret dream is to get a pilots license and buy a Cessna 172.
I am a published Poet (only one poem and it was in 8th grade)
I recently looked over my drivers license and it does not have the correct height, weight, or eye color.
What is something I didn't ask that you would have liked me to ask?
My favorite color is Green.
You Can Find Shawn's Blog At:
Shawn is also on Facebook At:
Thanks for letting me spotlight you Shawn! I agree with you, running is SUCH a stress reliever!!! I love your sense of humor through your answers, I look forward to reading your blog! I bet you will be finishing a 5k one day in a walker at 100. Best of luck with getting into the triathlons and marathon that you'd like to do! Oh, and I have to say how impressed I am that you are running after having your ankle run over a few months back, that is incredible! You must be blessed with fast healing powers:) Good luck!
You're so awesome :) and this is a fantastic post. Thank you for writing it!
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun idea for a blog series! Tell Shawn that I read about a man who didn't START running marathons until he was in his 80s, and had just finished his last one at like 100 or something! His 5K can most certainly be done when he's old - maybe even without a walker!
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