Favorite distance:

50k.

There are lots of race options at that distance and it just seems to be the right amount of time on my feet to challenge me but not enough that it takes me a long time to recover from. I feel pretty comfortable doing several a year without having to worry too much about injury.

Do you have any running/walking advice you'd like to offer?:

Don't overtrain and have to miss your race because you got injured in training.
Listen to your body and not a training plan or someone else. If your body is telling you to rest, REST!
Don't underestimate the mental component of distance running and overlook mental training. Ultras are very mentally challenging and if your head is not in the game you are more likely to have issues.
Figure out what works best for you. Ask for advice but make your own decision based on your needs and tastes.
Have a hydration and fuel strategy as the distances get longer.
Figure out a good shoe and sock combination and don't overlook lube.
Get your feet wet early in a training run and see how things go.
If you are going to trail run, be ready for anything. I've run in all sorts of conditions on all types of terrain.
Figure out what works best for you and don't always compare yourself to others. Amazing and inspiring athletes come in all shapes, sizes and abilities.

Why do you like running River City Races events?:

I love local racing and River City Races puts on great local races. I ran my first 5k in 2011 and quickly followed that up with my first experience with the Polar Bear Grand Prix. I loved the experience, the challenge and the atmosphere. The running community is pretty awesome. I've done many River City races over the past nine years and always have a good time. I like seeing many of the same friendly and smiling faces at most of the races and I really prefer the smaller local races to the bigger ones. Running a 5k or any race really with several thousand people isn't really my thing. I doubt I will ever try to get into any of the big marathons. Support local racing!

Anything else you'd like to share?:

I've really enjoyed becoming a runner and it still seems weird to consider myself a runner as I never thought I would be one. Running is hard and takes commitment and consistency to get better at it, so, if you are new to running, take your time and make staying healthy a priority over hitting mileage or speed goals. Speed is awesome, impressive and what wins races but it also kills and increases the risk for injury. Also, don't be afraid of walking or using intervals of running and walking as they are great ways to get in miles while minimizing injury risk. My number one goal is always to have fun and stay healthy. See you at the races (hopefully soon!)