NYC Marathon Team Spot Check In: Alex Penn
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?
My first run with NBR was last July, the first week I moved to NYC from California. It was a Monday morning easy run…and then I promptly switched over to evening runs.
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 goal with marathon training was to have fun and not get injured. Unfortunately wasn't successful with the latter, but I’m mostly on track (heh) now after having to dial it back a bit. Getting out for long runs even on gross rainy days has been helpful to mentally prepare in case the weather is bad on race day.
3. Which NBR runs are you attending regularly to train? Are there any NBR members who inspire you to train hard(er)?
Shoutout to Tuesday night tempo, especially the hills editions! SFR and Narwhals have both been great for company during long runs. I’d say our tempo and track run leaders have pushed me the most to get faster! It also doesn’t hurt to invent a fake rivalry to spice things up.
4. What does it mean to be chosen by your peers for a coveted NBR marathon team spot?
It’s huge! Having moved here just over a year ago, NBR has been such an amazing community where I’ve met so many close friends. And as someone who hadn’t considered himself a runner in the past, it’s really cool to feel included by the club.
5. What do you plan on eating post-marathon? What about the night before?
Before…I’ll be loading up on pasta, pizza, you name it. After…we’re having a pizza party right??
6. What inspires and motivates you to run this year's NYC marathon?
Having seen and felt the energy from the sidelines the past 2 years, I’ve wanted to experience what it's like to actually be out on the course. And I’ve been inspired and encouraged by so many teammates who have done it in the past.
7. In your head, what animal (real or fictional) do you think you most resemble when you're running?
I don’t know…whichever animal looks real grumpy because that’s how I look in most of my race pictures!
