When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?
I started running when I was in my 20's and have been running more or less often since then. I run because I enjoy it in the present moment, I like being outdoors, seeing a beautiful scenery, and talking with friendly people. I run to stay fit and I am also training for my 5th NYC Marathon

I moved to San Francisco from NYC back in November 2022 and immediately looked up which running clubs are there and found the SFRRC web site. I joined back in December and was able to start running with the club beginning of January.

I have run a few times on the trails with the club on Sunday and one particular Sunday I was behind the rest of the group and Jason kept me company (although he runs much faster than I do). At some point we realized that we had lost the rest of the group. We ran together then, chatting and enjoying the surroundings until the end of the trail.

Stay fit and without injuries, have fun, and improve in my upcoming NYC marathon in November over my time of 5:22:18 of November 2022.

I love the community feel at SFRRC.I also appreciate that there are so many different runs. I love the Tuesday track at Kezar, seeing the energy of everybody around the track.

The need to exercise, and  training with friendly people

Train regularly. On race day,  wake up extra early and don't eat much.

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?
I came in 2nd in my fourth grade turkey trot, then had a long break. At 39 I decided I wanted to quit smoking and get in shape. A friend of mine, and club member, dragged me to the Wednesday Fun Run … a year later I ran the SF Marathon after joining SFRRC in January 2019.

I joined in January of 2019

Running with the Wednesday group. I enjoy the shenanigans and the hills (downhill ; )

Keep running enough to enjoy it ; )

Many runs, many types of runs and the friendliness and comradery.

Committing to a race and training with friends. I like the structure.

Train with others. You need accountability buddies! Look at the training plans to make a structure that works for you. Don’t worry about who is faster, be the best you.

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?
Growing up as a child, my father would take us on hiking trails on the weekends. I still remember them vividly. One sister wanting to keep climbing, the other whining to stop, and me, somewhere in between.  Then there was my mother - the ultimate trooper.  It was probably then that I began to love the trails, unbeknownst to me at the time.  But it wasn’t until my first official race though - a 12K road race back in 1998 - that I became instantly hooked. I've ran many road and trail races since - everything from a 5K to a 50K and everything in between. Today, I run to relieve my daily stresses, to enjoy time with like-minded friends, to take care of my body and mind and to be as healthy as I possibly can be for my children.  One thing I've learned throughout the years is that taking care of me is taking care of them.

I had had a few marathons under my belt and enjoyed the solo aspect of the long runs as part of the journey.  Something changed one year and I remember I signed up for a marathon and absolutely dreaded the idea of running those long runs alone.  I searched for local running clubs and instantly loved the welcoming energy from all members of SFRRC and joined right away.  That was in 2012 and I can't imagine my runs without them now!

My most memorable and joyful moments with the club for me are in the small moments of the LSD runs.  With the club, they become an adventure - one where I get the opportunity to explore it and spend hours upon hours with friends.  We learn together, we grow together and we have fun together.  I've come to enjoy the journey far greater than the destination.  

I think perhaps like most runners - new and old-timers alike - dream of Boston if I could ever commit the time and training for it.  So yeah, there's that.  But for now, I'm going slower, longer - and shooting for that 100K.  Two very different goals and experiences to look forward to!

I can't say enough about how wonderful the club is! But a few of my favorite things about the club is that everyone is so supportive, inspiring, helpful and friendly.  They make every mile more fun and enjoyable.  I also love how everyone is always willing to share their knowledge, tips and their own experiences to make each other better and stronger.  We truly are stronger together and the proof is in the pudding.

My two boys, Louis and Miles, who are my entire world.

Have fun and enjoy the journey.  Listen to your body and allow it to be your guide along the way!  Don't put too much pressure on yourself.  Get out there and just have fun!

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?
My dad was and is my initial inspiration for running. He was a runner and when I was little he was regularly bringing home race shirts. As we lived in Minneapolis, he trained for the Twin Cities marathon but got injured and never completed that race, and shortly thereafter gave up running due to the insistence of doctors. He's missed running ever since. I was a competitive dancer growing up and didn't start running until college. For years I only ran three times a week to complement my yoga practice and my standard weekend long run was 5 miles. In 2006 I ran my first road race -- a 10k in Rio de Janeiro in 100 degrees and 90% humidity. It felt like death and I was immediately hooked. I ran my first half marathon in 2008 and averaged one or two half marathons a year for the next decade.
I run now because, thankfully, I can. After 30 years of dance and yoga, in 2020 I had to have hip surgery (labrum tear repair and acetabular rim resection) that kept me away from running and other activities for ten months. I was told by many PTs that, like my dad, I should give up running altogether; I simply wasn't willing to accept that story, so I didn't. In October I ran my first full marathon -- the Twin Cities marathon -- and I did so pain free, and I did it for both myself and my dad. 

In my post-surgery search for a movement specialist who wouldn't tell me to give up running, I reconnected with Jenny Maier, who I knew through the yoga world. Not only did Jenny help me return to running, but she suggested I join SFRRC. I attended my first club run in Feb 2022 - a Wed Fun Run, naturally - and have been grateful to her ever since. 

The community I have found with the club is by far what I love most about SFRRC. Club runs don't feel like part of my training, but rather an opportunity to spend time with friends doing something we all love and value, and club members go out of their way to support each other. A few of my favorite club moments this year were examples of that support - the shared group challenge of the Tiburon run, gathering with club members in the rain to cheer for other club members running the Oakland marathon, and most noteworthy, Jaime Tio offering to pace me at the Kaiser Half to ensure I not only PR, but to PR by a full four minutes.

I completed my first big running goal (run a full marathon) thanks to the support of the club this past year. Next big goal is BQ, which I'll attempt for the first time at Mountains to Beach. 

The camaraderie, the fact that track isn't nearly as terrifying as I thought it would be, a seemingly club-wide shared value of post-run beers, and of course, all shenanigans related to Wednesday Fun Runs.

My coach (Jenny Maier!), my SFRRC friends, and avoiding Strava shame. Also, Bob's donuts. 

Make the time and do the strength and mobility work, and if you aren't enjoying yourself, you are doing something wrong. 

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?
I first started running in middle school, primarily as an after-school sport to stay in shape during the soccer offseason. I kept running because, by the time I reached highschool, my friends and soccer teammates all started getting involved with drugs, alcohol, and partying. As a closeted queer kid in rural Appalachia, I knew if I spent my spare time partying I’d eventually get outed or in worse social situations or legal trouble. Running long trail mileage was a simpler and easier excuse that I could do alone, away from the social pressures of the peer group I was simply waiting to leave behind come college-time. Though I was banking on soccer being my ticket out of Appalachia, it turns out a dual running+academic scholarship would be my saving grace… getting me to California in 2008. 

NOW I run to stay healthy, to manage my depression more easily than by using medication, to avoid the diabetes and heart disease risk of my family, and for the friends and community I’ve made as a member of this club. Each marathon is a medal to add to the collection, but each mile is a reason to not feel so alone in this world. I’m truly grateful for both the ability to run AND the community of kind souls to run with. 

I joined SFRRC in 2018, so almost 5 years now. I was working down in Mountain View and commuting each day. Even though I was working with many great runners and triathletes at the time, few were training for events that seemed interesting to me or were willing to run together after work. I saw a Facebook ad for SFRRC and decided, even though I absolutely loathe mornings, I’d wake up early and join a Saturday run. The rest, I guess, is history. :)

Even though I was a member of the club for a little over the year before the pandemic, I didn’t have many close friends or connections. I felt like just another guy that showed up to the group run. Some people knew my name, gave me Strava kudos, or expressed interest in my training or racing. In 2020, I distinctly remember Chun leading the New Year kickoff and asking the group ‘What are your goals for the year?’. I had just done an Ironman in the fall of 2019, so I was one of the few who spoke of other goals outside of running: strength training and gaining muscle mass.

Then… 2020. Pandemic. Lockdown. No group runs.

My most memorable and joyful moments with the club were those first few months returning to meetups in 2021. I injured my back in that year of living-room strength training and knew I wouldn’t be able to make a comeback alone. So many members of the club moved or gave up running in the pandemic. And many new club members joined as we began to emerge from a year spent indoors and away from others. Those first few runs back, absolutely struggling to grit out 6-8 miles with nerve pains shooting down my leg, I knew the effort was worth it. The OG runners were excited to be around one another. The newbies were so curious, excited, motivated or scared to train for longer races. There was an energy and optimism for what community groups like SFRRC could be. It helped me hold on to a hope that I’d be able to regain my fitness and kept me excited to keep coming back to the meetups, working back from injury, and then… eventually, to have the confidence with the camaraderie to sign up with the group that trained for and raced CIM in 2022 (my comeback marathon since 2019).

My most joyous time running with SFRRC has been the open spirit and attitude we have all brought to our runs and racing in 2021 and running CIM with dozens of, who I can now call friends, in 2022. It filled my heart and made my pandemic life, which felt so small, so much larger.

I want to qualify for Boston again. I haven’t since 2016 and, after seeing friends and new club members crush their training and racing Boston in 2022 and this year 2023, I’ve got the itch again. At CIM-2022 I was able to do a 3:21 with only a couple months of actual dedicated training, so I’m working to get back to sub-3 shape.

The post-lockdown camaraderie of club members, no matter their pace group or what race they’re training for, is so spirited. It’s been a true delight to feel like a member of the team, part of the running squad, and a friend of people from so many different backgrounds as mine.

Post-track Pizza Night - friends and Pizza… enough said.

Race volunteer groups - running a race for time is awesome, but a random group of friends out there on the course cheering you on, having nutritional support, or post-race is such a game changer. For the SF Marathon, CIM, and other local races those brief moments where the crowd support is calling YOUR name … it’s something special and keeps you moving. 

For starters, I got much more motivated to come back from my 2020 injury when Ned, the fellow 8 min pace group leader, got injured. I was one of the only members from before the pandemic at that pace who knew the routes. I raised my hand and said I could pace the people, and that responsibility to look out for the little baby SFRRC birdies who had just joined the club kept me going.

As there was so much uncertainty in the job market, the economy, the elections, the pandemic “recovery” I found that being around other runners helped me keep order and make sense of my place in the world. Even those in the club not training for races, who are just focused on staying active. All approaches and motivations and perspectives for training are valid… because they’re there. We’re there. Meeting these runners and showing up for them over the past couple of years have helped me show up for myself, even when I lacked the motivation to do so.

Secondly, and perhaps a bit too candidly, fear. I’m afraid of what will happen in my life without running.

Fear of not living up to the expectations I have for myself. 

Fear of disappointing the sad and lonely little inner effeminate child who needed more from the world than rural Appalachia could give.

Fear of what would happen to my body and mind without running… depression getting worse, pre-diabetes, heart disease, obesity.

Fear of being alone.

I've struggled with fear being a motivator, whether it's a positive or negative way of moving through the world, but have come to terms with the fact that its presence is neither good nor bad rather my response to it can be good or bad. By using that fear for positive things in my life, I have to trust myself in that I'm harnessing its power for good. Every time I show up to run with SFRRC, whether my body wants to be there that day or not, I never feel afraid. I feel capable. I feel supported. I feel part of something. And it’s simply, purely, motivating. I only hope to return a meager percentage of that positive motivation to others when they make the choice to show up. <3

Find pro athletes with a training and life philosophy that resonate with you and CONSUME all of their media. (Tommy Rivvs, Des Linden, Stephen Scullion, Chrissy Wellington and Mirinda Carfrae are mine.)

Take things steady. 

If you’re new to it, ask members of the club who may have more experience or get a coach to make you a dedicated training/racing plan. Expert input never hurts! 

Worry less about the metrics / data and more about the reason WHY you’re training for a race.

Focus on getting to the starting line healthy and uninjured (i.e. don’t neglect your recovery, flexibility, mobility, diet). That’s a much harder part than actual race day.

Keep your head up, heart open, and soul engaged. 

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?
My friends & family got me into running senior year in college.  I was primarily a field hockey player, but my friend convinced me to join club cross country on non field hockey days.  That year I ended up running my first race, Broad Street 10 miler in Philly, with my dad (taking my mom’s bib who got sick a few days beforehand).  I haven’t turned back since.

TBH I don’t remember!  I think I just googled SF running clubs.  I joined in 2018 – can’t believe it’s been 5 years.

CIM last year was the most memorable.  Not only having so many members cheering and finally achieving my BQ, but all the training miles that I ran with the club.  Special shout out to the 9 min CIM crew – thank you for all the miles!. 

I just achieved a longtime goal of qualifying for Boston at CIM in December!  So, I haven’t figured out my next running goal, but I am hoping to be able to run Boston in April 2024 (fingers crossed).

#1 is the people – SFRRC is an amazing community.  #2 the runs to Tiburon – even if I’m not training for a marathon I make sure I’m in shape to run Tiburon

Before the club, I alway needed a race to keep me motivated to run.  However the club now keeps me motivated as I get FOMO when I can’t run with the club.

Listen to your body!  While it’s good to have a plan don’t be afraid to change / adapt.

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?
J: I started running races in 2008 when a neighbor in Montreal (Peter Collins) asked me to join him on a run. At the time, I was only playing softball and doing lots of yard work around the house. I ran a 10K and continued testing my limits running longer distances. I keep running to stay healthy and enjoy everything the sport offers from great trail runs and views to cross-country meets and Club events.
W: I started running in 2010. At first, I couldn’t even run one block nonstop, it was very hard for me but, I was patiently guided by Jaime. I continue running today because it makes me feel happy and alive.

J: I’ve been a member for 18 months. Before moving to SF in July 2021, we googled running Clubs and the SFRRC website came up. It looked like a great option to integrate into society, be part of a community and continue with the sport I love in a new city.
W: Before moving to San Francisco, we were looking to join a club for the first time in our lives and SFRRC was the first club found on the search. The second day I arrived in the city, I was doing my first Saturday run with SFRRC. I’ve been a member since July 2021.

J: Achieving a PR at the Kaizer Half Marathon thanks to Bill Summer and Matt Hutchinson. I wasn’t mentally prepared for that until Bill showed up out of nowhere, led us for the first 8 miles and the rest was history. The second one was my first trail run discovering Muir Woods. Three words come to mind: beautiful, peaceful, and humbling.
W: I appreciate all my long runs with the club, but I remember the first trail run I did on the Tennessee valley trail guided by Bill and Kristin. It was impressive, challenging, and magnificent and that day I believed I could do anything I set my mind to do.

J: Right now, my goals are to prepare myself for Boston to Big Sur. I want to be in shape and mentally ready to run those back-to-back marathons. On a longer-term vision, I would like to run the 7 continents with Wendy. We only have Africa and Antarctica left to do.
W: Running for enjoyment! Keep doing marathons and visiting new places to run with Jaime.

J: 1) the people are what makes this club special for me. Everyone is so nice and welcoming. It’s like my second family; 2) the support we give each other on training days and race days. I feel that I always have SFRRC support; 3) post-run gatherings after Kaizer, long runs, and Sunday trails. 
W: The people! It’s a blessing camaraderie I find with my running buddies and the leaders of SFRRC. I get to know more about others and myself on every run.

J: I like to keep challenging myself. It could be by running a PR, qualifying for Boston, running back-to-back marathons, or simply a marathon in a new destination. There’s always something exciting on the menu.
W: Looking at my partner's passion for running and experiencing how so many people in the club are committed to being better runners, keeps me motivated to do the same.

J: 1) Strength Train: it will make you stronger, faster, and less prone to injuries; 2) Start Slow: a marathon is a long race. Avoid the euphoria of the first few miles. Follow your plan and listen to your body. By mile 13 you should know if you can push harder, stay on pace or slow down.   
W: I would say that race day is just one day of the marathon journey; enjoy the time that will get you to that day. I would encourage you to keep putting in the work and always be kind to yourself. Never compare to others because we all are unique and special in our way.

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?
I started running in high school, when I was on the track team. My race was the 300m hurdles. As I have gotten older, I have continued running, at first to give myself time to de-stress. Since joining the club, it has also been a wonderful opportunity to spend time with my friends!
How did you hear about SFRRC and for how long have you been a member?

I heard about SFRRC from a former member, Christine Lampe. She introduced me to Matt at an Anti Racist Run Club event, and I joined almost immediately after that in July 2021.

One of my favorite moments with the club was my first cross country race last fall. Although I am nowhere near the fastest member of the team, everyone was there cheering for me, giving hugs and celebrating at the finish line. It felt so good to be part of the group, helping the team score points!

I am trying to BQ coming up in the next season—we will see how that goes.

I love how friendly and supportive everyone in the club is. I have found myself wanting to come to club runs several times a week just to see my friends, even during my off season. I also really value the fact that joining the club has helped me meet so many different people with different life experiences. Overall, it feels like having another family.

What keeps you motivated? 

Before joining the club, when I was doing my weekly track workouts on my own, I would have said the goal of getting faster was keeping me motivated. But now, I would say the joy of being out on the road or the trail with so many people I care about and love spending time with.

Know the physiological purpose of each workout you do. It will help you avoid overtraining.

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?
I ran cross country and track in middle school and high school, focusing on shorter distances like the 800 meters, the mile, and the 5K for cross country. Nowadays I run to spend quality time with friends, explore nature, and challenge myself by pursuing ambitious goals.
How did you hear about SFRRC and for how long have you been a member?

I heard about SFRRC by Googling for running clubs in San Francisco (search engine optimization for the win). I’ve been a member since June 2021.

I enjoy cheering on my running club friends at their races, including the Berkeley Half Marathon, the Boston Marathon, and the San Francisco Marathon. It’s always a blast making personalized race signs, planning out timing logistics, and getting post-race brunches. I always find spectating races to be inspiring – it is so great to see everyone accomplish their goals!

I am hoping to run a sub-3 hour marathon to qualify for Boston and become a ‘big dawg’. This is a challenging goal – I need to drop 28 minutes from my first marathon time last April. However, I think that the speed I’ve developed from Track workouts and the endurance I’m developing from increased weekly mileage will pay dividends. Beyond the marathon, I am hoping to improve my times for the 5K, 10K, and half-marathon.

I like how this running club is large enough that you can get to know many different people, but also still feels like an intimate environment because of the various sub-groups (like Saturday pace groups, Tuesday Track, Thursday Crew, Sunday Trails, and people training together for specific races). If you show up consistently, it’s easy to get to know a lot of different people pretty well and make some great friends.

What keeps you motivated? 

My fellow running friends in SFRRC – everyone is so encouraging and I’ve learned a lot about training and racing from other club members. I also like inspirational videos and quotes from David Goggins – a legendary ultramarathoner, former Navy SEAL, and motivational speaker.

Most of your miles should be at an easy conversational pace. This usually means running slower than your half-marathon and marathon race paces. Easy running is important to strengthen the heart and develop other muscles important for running. For speed, make sure to go to Track Tuesday consistently and do the group workouts – these make a big difference. And finally, make sure to gradually build your weekly mileage in a responsible way. Take advantage of rest days and recovery weeks to give your body a rest.

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?
I first became serious about running at the beginning of 2022 when I fell in with a bad crowd at SFRRC that got me hooked on running. Within one week, my new SFRRC friends convinced me to sign up for the Mountains 2 Beach marathon and the rest is history! I run now because running is so joyful. It is a celebration of this little life, our body, and the relationships we cultivate.
How did you hear about SFRRC and for how long have you been a member?
I first heard of SFRRC entirely out of coincidence. I was browsing Sports Basement's website in January 2022 and saw that the SFRRC open house was that weekend. So I've been a member for around eight months now.

So, so many. Most of my happiest memories from the past year were shared with members of the club. I think the most meaningful and joyful moment was when I crossed the finish line at Mountains 2 Beach, on pace with my goal time. Up until that moment, I really lacked the confidence to execute an ambitious race. It was the culmination of months of hard work, but moreover, a beautiful moment to reflect back on how far I've come and all the relationships I built through the club.
What are your running goals?
My biggest goal is to keep experiencing the joy of running. For me, running is not about suffering at all. It is about the joy of feeling alive and seeing all the wonderful things your body can do. As my running career progresses, I want to stay true to this philosophy of running. In terms of discrete goals, it would be cool to run a sub-3 marathon in the upcoming year. Other than that, I want to run more ultras and hopefully run the uTMB someday (ultra gods, please be nice to me!).
What are a few of your favorite things about the club?
Without question, the people. The people make this club entirely special. Every weekend with club members was an adventure. Although I have since moved away, I am confident that I will be lifelong friends with many people in this club.

Favorite Training Runs:
I really loved the SF to Tiburon run. The views are amazing and the brunch in Tiburon afterwards is something to look forward to throughout the 22 miles. My other favorite training run is the Wednesday Tam Run with the San Francisco Running Company (Marin running group focused on trails). I have really missed summiting Tam every Wednesday and feeling like you can do anything!
Which pace group are you in? 8:30 min (in reality, 8:00 or 7:30) for long runs.

What keeps you motivated? 
The people around me. I'm constantly inspired by my friends and their talent, ambition, and love for adventure!

You know yourself the best! Training plans are great as a starting point, but you know best on whether the plan works for you. Feel free to be more ambitious and run faster than you think you can. But at the same time, it takes true discipline to know when to rest and not push yourself to the point of injury. It is almost always better to undertrain than overtrain your body for a race. Also, don't get too into your head during tapering. You've already worked so hard to get that point, so just chill until race day and trust that your body will perform. Oh and of course, don't forget to have fun! That's the whole point anyway.

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?
I started running around age 12. The track and cross country teams did not have tryouts, so as a non-competitive kid, that was particularly appealing. I fell in love with the sport and have been running since. I run for fun, adventure, and of course to surround myself with the most supportive community.
How did you hear about SFRRC and for how long have you been a member?
Google :) I was searching for a SF running club, and SFRRC looked like a good balance of running and social. I joined in January 2020 right before the pandemic… so I consider my official start date the spring of 2021 when the club started holding runs again.
What are the most memorable joyful moments with the club? And why?
The cheer squad for my first trail 50K. I always felt the club was supportive, but having friends scattered throughout the trails/aid stops with signs and staying out in Marin for hours was beyond heartwarming. I was so thankful to have all these badass friends/athletes in my life!
What are your running goals?
I’d love to do an international race of some kind because I've never done a race outside of the US. Club trip anyone?!
What are a few of your favorite things about the club?
Of course, the members and community. In terms of the runs, Saturday runs, the bi-annual Tiburon Run (shout out to the aid-stop supporters!) and Track Tuesdays. I really don’t like speed workouts, so having great company makes it much more tolerable… dare I say enjoyable?
Favorite Race: California International Marathon (CIM) for course, weather, and club turnout; Boston Marathon for the course-long spectators/cheering in my hometown state; Erie Pennsylvania Turkey Trot 10K for tradition. 17 years and counting!
Favorite Training Runs:
Long and slow. I’ve recently started running more trails and loving it!
Which pace group are you in? 8/8:30, depending on the distance and vibes that morning. It’s really the 8:17 pace group.
How many miles do you run per week: It really depends on if and what I’m training for. Usually ranging between 40-70, but under that in the off months!
Food (when training for a marathon): Oatmeal, potatoes, Black Forrest Gummies, and PB&J. Unless this means during runs, then GU Roctane all the way!
Shoes (training and racing): Asics GT 2000 (Road Running), Hoka Mafate Speed 3 (Trail Running), Nike Vaporfly (Racing)
What do you like to do when not running with the club: Anything outside (camping, biking), explore breweries (post-run hydration is important), and just in general spend time with friends. I also set a goal to read 15 books this year, so let me know if you have any recommendations!
What keeps you motivated? 
It sounds cheesy, but the joy of running. We’re so fortunate to live in a BEAUTIFUL place where even our “city” runs are through parks and along the beach. I love going out for runs just to explore, especially when traveling to new places. Also, the more I run, the more Goodr sunglasses I can justify buying.
What words of advice would you give to someone who is training for a race?
My favorite piece of advice I read was in the book Bravey by Olympian Alexi Pappas called “The Rule of Thirds.” She explains it like this: “Whenever you’re chasing a big dream, you’re supposed to feel good a third of the time, okay a third of the time, and crappy or not great a third of the time, and if you feel roughly in those ratios, it means you are in fact chasing a dream. If you feel too good all the time, you’re not pushing yourself enough, and if you feel too fatigued, you might be burning out or having a mental-health challenge and need to reevaluate.” If you run with me, you’ve probably heard me yelling “rule of thirds!” whenever someone says they’re having a rough day.

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?

I first started running as a mental break from work/life (literally running away from my problems), but when a coworker asked if I wanted to run a 50k with them in the Marin headlands, I agreed and have been hooked ever since. 
Now I run for the mental health benefits and for the amazing camaraderie in this club and overall running community. 

How did you hear about SFRRC and for how long have you been a member?

When I first moved to SF, I went for a run in the Marina and John Brust, the previous SFRRC president, randomly started running next to me and said, “Hey you should join our Saturday club run.” The next Saturday I ran with the club, and now 3 years later, I could not be happier that I did. 

The unbelievable support of the club during the Oakland Marathon. The club showed up with inspirational signs, handed me bottles and gels during the marathon, read me inspirational quotes mid-stride, and was able to mid-run high five other marathoners. There’s no way I could have done it without the unwavering support of the amazing people in the club. 
What are your running goals?

Run the Boston marathon. 

The people. I look forward to seeing everyone every week, whether it’s the Saturday long run, Sunday trails, track Tuesday, Friday morning Ninja Loops with Bill, or the post brunch/dinners. 

Mixing up road and trail runs to keep my legs and mind fresh. 

Have fun. Don’t get consumed by training. Running is just running, it’s the people you spend that time with that is the most meaningful. 

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?

I started running in 7th grade. I joined track and ran the 400 meters and the 4x400 relay team. I had a great coach who really pushed me. I had so much fun going to different middle schools and racing against other people. I run now cause I still have that same excitement to run. It never goes away.

How did you hear about SFRRC and for how long have you been a member?

I heard about SFRRC through my friends at Run365 so we decided to try out a group run and I joined SFRRC shortly after. I have been a member since January 2, 2020!

What are the most memorable joyful moments with the club?

There are so many! Every run we have is super fun and I am so lucky to be able to run with all the great people I meet. I think everytime I go to a club run I learn something new about running and what other people have experienced with training and diet and physical therapy.

What are your running goals?

Right now just to continue to run and enjoy it with less injuries and hopefully run a Half Marathon in under 2 hours, also to start going to track practice more. I have to represent the 10’s at track!!! A long term goal will be to run a full marathon.

What are a few of your favorite things about the club?

I like that our club appreciates all the runners/walkers and everyone is included. Everyone is so helpful and friendly. I love the routes we go on and it’s so fun to explore SF with our group. I would never run the places I have or gone the longer distances by myself so it’s nice to have a group to do it with.

Favorite Race: Berkley Half Marathon!!! I love the energy and it's a great race overall and the shirts are so cool.

Favorite Training Runs: Our runs through the Presidio that start at A Runner's Mind are so pretty! That’s gotta be my favorite so far.

Which pace group are you in: The super amazing 10’s led by Eric Lum! Who is a great pace coach and an incredible runner.

How many miles do you run per week: 15-20 at the most. Hopefully more in the future.

Food (when training for a marathon): Lots of chicken and veggies and salads and healthy food. I gave up cheese so I don’t eat it unless it’s in one of my cheat meals that I have once a week.

For my cheat meals I love Indian Food, Sushi, Italian food (Golden Boy Pizza) and Mexican food and Salt & Straw ice cream for dessert of course! I haven’t had a cheesesteak in years so that’s probably my next cheat meal. If anyone has good recommendations for their favorite restaurants let me know.

Shoes (training and racing): Always Asics, Nimbus & Kayano. I buy them directly from their site and always get last year's shoes on sale. They have some cool colors too.

What do you like to do when not running with the club: I am usually taking classes at Barry’s (I just completed my 200th class there last week) or taking Yin Yoga classes at UCSF which has helped me so much with all my injuries. I LOVE singing Karaoke and going to concerts.

What keeps you motivated?

I am always looking forward to a new race so that keeps me motivated. I love running 10k’s cause there’s no pressure. It’s just for fun!

What words of advice would you give to someone who is training for a race?

I would train with someone who is running that same race. It helps to have other people to keep you going. Also, make sure you are in the habit of eating well, sleeping well and stretching and resting and having fun and not taking it too seriously. It all comes down to making sure you are doing all those things and not overloading yourself.

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now? 

I was first interested in running when I was in 5^th grade and did my first 1 mile fun run with my grade school, but ballet/dance took over most my childhood up until high school so never did much running during that time.  It was not until in my late 20’s that I started up running again and been running ever since.  I run now because, I like being fit, healthy, being outside and it always puts me in a good mood after.  Also during the pandemic when gyms were closed, running was my saving grace to stay fit and motivated.

How did you hear about SFRRC and for how long have you been a member?  

I heard about SFRRC from my good friend Derek Schwarz who is an active member and been a SFRRC member now for four years this March 2022.

What are the most memorable joyful moments with the club? And why?  

My most memorable joyful moments with the club are the Saturday morning runs especially the big annual kickoff and monthly breakfast :) The Saturday runs jump starts my weekend and I enjoy talking with fellow runners new and old and finding out why they run and outside of running.

What are your running goals? 

My running goal is to run a sub 2 half marathon, and I know I need to incorporate more speed work and get myself out there to Tuesday Track! :P I promise to get myself out there once the days are longer. I have not registered yet for another race so I am open to suggestions from the SFRRC community. My ongoing running goal is just run and stay active.

What are a few of your favorite things about the club?  

I love how everyone is welcoming and supportive no matter what your level of running is. Also meeting amazing people who you wouldn’t get to meet outside the club. I enjoy the post run breakfasts, donuts, coffee and catching up with fellow members.

Favorite Race: San Francisco Marathon, Surfers Path Marathon, Oakland Running Festival, Kaiser Half Marathon (Traditional New Year kickoff race)

Favorite Training Runs: Saturday Morning Runs

Which pace group are you in: 10:00(Orange)/10:30(Gold) pace group

How many miles do you run per week: Not enough! I try to run at least three times a week Tues/Thurs 3 to 4 miles and Saturday my long runs depending on my training schedule.

Food (when training for a marathon):  I love pasta and/or rice with a protein and veggies. Always love a big and filling salad too. Maybe not for everyone, but before race day, I have a traditional one cocktail to take the nervous edge out :)

Shoes (training and racing): Saucony Endorphin Speed. Wearing bright color running shoes is a must for me.

What do you like to do when not running with the club: I enjoy fashion, traveling, camping, hiking, performing in musical theater and Disneyland. I also enjoy making cocktails and pretty good at it. Taught myself during the pandemic.

What keeps you motivated?  My husband Rafael Musni and our friend Derek Schwarz. We enjoy taking fun pictures of our running adventures and that is what keeps us motivated and at the same time having fun because running should be enjoyable. Also having a race in the future keeps me motivated and wearing fun/colorful running gear. When you feel good in your running clothes, you just run better.

What words of advice would you give to someone who is training for a race?  

Do not be so hard on yourself and enjoy the process of training. Whether this is your first race or your 50th marathon, always be kind to yourself physically/mentally and don’t compare. Your running journey is for yourself because everyone’s running goal is unique. Also having a running community like SFRRC is so helpful to have that support system. I wish I knew about the club back then when I first trained for my first marathon. Most importantly trust the process and finish strong with a big smile when you cross that finish line because there is a photographer capturing that moment!

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now? 
I first started running with my dad when I was six or seven years old.  He would run three miles or so and I asked to join him.  I run now to feel healthy, free, relaxed, and accomplished.

How did you hear about SFRRC and for how long have you been a member?  
I found SFRRC just from an online search and joined in 2016.  I was eager to run with others more often and I've been grateful to have found this club.  

What are the most memorable joyful moments with the club? And why?  
I've enjoyed the conversations with old and new friends.  Whenever I see a large group of runners, I feel that I understand them and believe that I am with my people.  

What are your running goals? 
Just to enjoy it.  My time goals seem so trivial vs the pleasure of running and catching up with friends.  That said, I focus my training and nutrition after registering for a race.  I haven't signed up for anything yet in 2022.  

What are a few of your favorite things about the club?  
Seeing old running buddies, meeting new runners, hearing about others' experiences, lessons, and plans, exploring the city, and the normalization of running lots.

Favorite Race: Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Half Marathon

Favorite Training Runs: Tempo and easy runs

Which pace group are you in: 7:30 or 8 min/mile

How many miles do you run per week: Right now about 30 - 40 miles per week, but my last three training cycles have peaked near or above 100 miles per week.  I tend to increase my mileage by roughly 2 - 3 miles per week.  

Food (when training for a marathon):  I largely eat vegan minimally processed foods, but not strictly, like brown rice, oatmeal, beans, lentils, nuts, fruit, lots of steamed veggies and salads.  I snack on fruit and nuts all day.  Occasionally I eat fish, eggs, or dairy.  

Shoes (training and racing):  Well, that's always evolving.  I've loved the Saucony Endorphin Speed for workouts and races, but I am trying to make a return to the Nike Vaporfly Next % 2.  I have way too many running shoes for easy days.  Lately I've been wearing Adidas Pureboost and Brooks Revel.

What do you like to do when not running with the club: Hanging out with my family and running alone in Pacifica.

What keeps you motivated?  
I get antsy if I don't run for several days.  Future races really motivate me to focus though.  

What words of advice would you give to someone who is training for a race?  
You can't rush fitness.  Train, don't strain.  Do a little more than what you're used to.  Training is a lot more fun when you're healthy and allowing the fitness to come to you.  

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?

How did you hear about SFRRC and for how long have you been a member?

What are the most memorable joyful moments with the club? And why?

What are a few of your favorite things about the club?

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?
I first got into running in 2012, when I was training for the Walt Disney Marathon on behalf of Team in Training for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, raising money for cancer beneficiaries. 

How did you hear about SFRRC and for how long have you been a member?

I actually heard about SFRRC from running with Run365 and I've only been a member since May of 2021 of this year!

What are the most memorable joyful moments with the club? And why?

What are a few of your favorite things about the club?

Favorite Training Runs: The Thursday and Saturday long run. 

Which pace group are you in: 10:30 pace group 

How many miles do you run per week: 20-40

Shoes (training and racing): Brooks Glycerin and the Saucony Speed Endorphin 

What do you like to do when not running with the club:

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?

How did you hear about SFRRC and for how long have you been a member?

My long-time friend, Carlos Ramirez, talked about SFRRC for many years and I finally joined in 2013.

What are the most memorable joyful moments with the club? And why?

What are your running goals?

What are a few of your favorite things about the club?

Favorite Race: Oakland Marathon

Favorite Training Runs: SFRRC Saturday runs!

Which pace group are you in: 9 & 9:30

How many miles do you run per week: 40-46 miles

Food (when training for a marathon): I don't change my diet for a marathon, usually eating veggies, salmon, quinoa, rice and tofu. I make sure to drink lots of water and try to get good sleep.

Shoes (training and racing): New Balance Fresh Foam 860

What do you like to do when not running with the club:

What keeps you motivated?

What words of advice would you give to someone who is training for a race?

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?

How did you hear about SFRRC and for how long have you been a member?

I joined SFRRC in 2018, not long after moving to San Francisco. Our previous Club President John Brust sold me in on the club as I was running along Crissy Field one day. I didn't take much convincing as I was keen to join a club anyway and SFRRC sounded like just what I was looking for.

What are the most memorable joyful moments with the club? And why?

What are your running goals?

What are a few of your favorite things about the club?

Favorite Race: This is a bit random, but Gunnersbury Parkrun (5k) in London. It's not a particularly special route, but it happens every Saturday rain or shine. I feel like I ran it every other weekend in 2017 during my running renaissance (runaissance?!) so it's close to my heart. I always try to run it now when I make a trip home.

Favorite Training Runs: The SFRRC Tiburon 20M  training run pre SF Marathon is great. It's a beautiful route, there's always a big group doing it and best of all the club arranges refreshment stops. Big shout out to anyone who has ever volunteered on those runs, it makes such a difference and is really appreciated by everyone. On a more day to day basis I love running round the Presidio - really varied and simply a beautiful spot.

Which pace group are you in: On Saturdays I normally run with Ned's 8 minute group, though I'm occasionally sucked in by the 7:30s...

How many miles do you run per week: I aim to do 30+ miles a week but I'm still working on my consistency.

Food (when training for a marathon): Whatever I like...That's one of the perks of training for a marathon!

Shoes (training and racing): Big fan of the Adidas Adizero Bostons - they are a lightweight all rounder of a shoe. For trails it has to be the Saucony Peregrines, they are almost compulsory in our trails crew (there's a rumour the trails group leader is on commission...).

What do you like to do when not running with the club:

What keeps you motivated?

What words of advice would you give to someone who is training for a race?

When did you first get interested in running? And why do you run now?

How did you hear about SFRRC and for how long have you been a member?

What are the most memorable joyful moments with the club? And why?

What are your running goals?

What are a few of your favorite things about the club?

Favorite Race: Tough! Boston Marathon or The North Face Endurance Challenge 50 mile race (sadly retired now)

Favorite Training Runs: Any run with friends! (Except track- I am just in it for the post-track refreshments)

Which pace group are you in: 8:00 or 8:30

How many miles do you run per week: 20-35 miles

Food (when training for a marathon): 

Shoes (training and racing):

What do you like to do when not running with the club:

What keeps you motivated?

What words of advice would you give to someone who is training for a race?