NYC Marathon Team Spot Check-In: Donald Williams

1. Tell us a little bit about how you came to be involved with NBR. What was your first run? How long have you been involved?  

Let me start by advising you that I’m a bit of an introvert and not much of a joiner. I usually run alone with whatever is in my head as my constant companion. On a run through Williamsburg I believe in 2013, I saw a group of runners coming in the opposite direction. Some of them were wearing NBR gear. I thought that they were an interesting looking group. I looked up the club on line and decided I would like to join this club. I had belonged to another running club before (they will remain nameless) but due to some back issues I pretty much stopped running for about six years and did not renew my membership. I also had moved to a different neighborhood. 

As far as group runs, I have yet to participate since I live kind of far from NBR’s core neighborhood. So my next group run will be my first. What I do like though are the ample opportunities to do volunteer work with the club. This allows me to participate in the club and to give something back to an activity that I love.

2. How is marathon training going? Are there any specific workouts that are really moving things along for you? Tell the world a good NBR long run story.

My marathon training is going well. I’m feeling strong and confident. I will admit that running in the hotter weather has been quite a challenge. What gets me through is that I’ve done this before. I last ran the marathon in 2011 and thought at the time that that would be my last one.

The itch came back so now I have to scratch it.

3. Which NBR runs are you attending regularly to train? Are there any NBR members who inspire you to train hard (er)?

Unfortunately I can’t answer this question. This might sound corny but seeing an NBR shirt or singlet is quite motivating.

4. What does it mean to be chosen by your peers for a coveted NBR marathon team spot? 

I mentioned before that I got the itch to do another marathon. I didn’t do 9+1 and did not get selected in the lottery. I figured I would just do 2019.

When the opportunity for a club spot came up, I figured I would apply. I honestly thought I was not worthy. However I was shocked and exhilarated when I was selected. It meant the world to me to be selected by my peers. The work that I put in paid off and now I was given the opportunity to abuse my body for the next several months. Believe me I really appreciate it.

5. What do you plan on eating post-marathon? What about the night before?

Post marathon meal? Really not sure. Too far out to makeup my mind. 

The night before I will probably make a nice pasta dish and try not to eat too much. Also nothing weird or spicy.

6. What inspires and motivates you to run this year's NYC marathon?

I just want to prove to myself that at 67 years old I can still do this. Not expecting a PR but do expect to have a very good and satisfying experience.

7. In your head, what celebrity do you think you most resemble when you're running?

I would say Idris Elba but that would be a lie.