August Runner of the Month: Zandy Mangold
Zandy joined NBR while training for his first ultramarathon in 2009. "I saw a bunch of runners in stylish NBR singlets one day in Prospect Park, googled NBR when I got home, and the rest is history." He has been involved with NBR as a runner and a coach for several teammates over the years, and most recently raced the Western States 100-mile Endurance Run.
What do you do when you're not running?
Hmm let me think, haha. Photography, coaching runners, cooking and some drumming.
How did you initially get into running?
I used to run through the woods to my friends' houses when I was growing up in rural NH. I didn't think anything of it then, but I guess that set the tone for the rest of my life. Freshman year in high school I had a crush on someone who ran cross-country, so I joined the team and that was my official start to running.
What is your favorite race distance?
It really depends. I love racing anything from the mile to infinity. That said, I've dedicated most of my training the past decade to 100 mile and longer races because I can still compete for the podium at those distances as an older runner and I love the unknown that is inherent to running those distances. Self-supported stage races where runners carry all their gear and food for an entire week over about 150 miles in the most remote and wild locations you can access have a special appeal.
Best running memory?
Eek, that is hard because I really do cherish every single run I ever take. I take no run for granted. That said, my first Boston Qualifying time in 2010 - which I never thought possible - was extremely satisfying as were winning the Atacama Crossing and the Keys100 mile race. I had dropped out of both the Atacama and Keys races on my third attempts, and so winning each of those races on my 4th try were especially gratifying moments.
Favorite running route in NYC?
Where ever the Doves are running. The people make the route!
Any running-related superstitions?
Nope. I either trained or I didn't.
What has running taught you or changed about you?
Relationships are what matter. Friendships I've made over the years thanks to running are what stay with me as the running memories fade. Running has also positively influenced my diet and overall health.
Favorite post-race food?
Hammer Recoverite blended with frozen bananas, peanut butter and oat milk, and then a bowl of watermelon with freshly squeezed lemon juice and grated ginger.
Favorite song to run to make you want to run?
Anything by Tool
Favorite running social media account?
Cappuccinocowboys
What do you think is the worst part about being a runner?
When shoe companies inevitably change the model that you love.
Best advice to running newbies?
Increase volume and intensity gradually in order to limit exposure to injury. Don't worry about your pace in the beginning, instead notice your effort and just aim to run easily for a couple months when you start out.
Current running goal?
Sub-3 hour at Boston and to go for the FKT (Fastest Known Time) on the New York State segment of the Appalachian Trail.
Any other fun running facts about you?
I love running in the heat, coach for the Chaski Endurance Collective, and run strides after almost every run.
