May Runner of the Month: S M Bargeen Turzo

He runs, he cooks, he socializes, and he can talk a little too long about atoms and molecules if you’re not careful! We’re happy to have S M Bargeen as one of NBR’s May Runners of the Month.

While we learned a lot about S M Bargeen’s running (he doesn’t run with music and he appreicates the half marathon), we were also lucky enough to get some visuals of Bangladesh, where he grew up. Keep scrolling to read one of S M Bargeen’s happiest running memories at 12 years old.

When did you join NBR and why?

I joined NBR in June 2023. The reason behind it is two folds. As I was completing my chemistry Ph.D., my close friend Karl Koster (aye, he is kin to the other Koster at NBR) recommended that I look into NBR, knowing that I was moving to NYC.

In what ways have you been involved with NBR?

Officially, I serve as one of the Wednesday Night Beginner Run (WNBR) leaders and also as one of the Cheer Squad member for NBR. Unofficially, I've taken on the role of NBR's social butterfly, flitting from one group to the next, eager to welcome new members and forge friendships along the way.

What do you do when you're not running?

When I am not running, I run a little more (bad joke). No, I love to cook (the pictures attached as evidence) and invite my friends (which is primarily composed of NBR folks) for dinner (validation). I also co-host movie+potluck nights with friends and we are on to part 6 (going strong so far, although every once in a while we just eat and play board games). When I am by myself, my thoughts often drift to atoms and molecules, their formations, disintegrations, and everything in between. You will often find me talking in great details about protein folding and designing (and their importance in therapeutics) if and only if you ask me to explain what I do for a living.

How did you initially get into running?

I owe it all to my dad! I grew up in Dhaka, Bangladesh, where most schools, including mine, had track and field programs but no coaches. So, it was up to us to figure things out on our own. My dad helped me every step of the way through middle school and high school. Later in life, he would walk around the track and lovingly yell at me if I did something silly while I lapped him.

What is your favorite race distance?

Half-marathons. Hear me out! You get the joy of running a really long run, experience a runner's high, and just when you start to feel "f*$k this sh*t" you are DONE!!

Best running memory?

I was 12. I was in the most remote part of Bangladesh (that's where my grandparents used to live). The village was so under-developed that there was no electricity, so naturally no light pollution. One night, my cousins and I were playing catch-me-if-you-can near a rice field when we noticed thousands of fireflies flickering in harmony. It was the first time we had seen such a sight, and to this day, it remains one of my happiest running memories.

Favorite running route in NYC?

I think from the very top of Green Point all the way to Jane Carousel and then ending it right outside L'Appartement 4F.

Any running-related superstitions?

No. I rely on training, preparation, and evidence-based practices to guide my running journey. I am a man of science and thereby denounce all superstitions.

What has running taught you or changed about you?

Running has taught me to be consistent and patient. Not just with training but also with my relationship with people.

Favorite post-race food?

Toasted sesame bagel with smoked salmon and avocado.

Favorite song to run to or that makes you want to run?

I don't listen to music when I run. But sometimes "Tempo" by Lizzo makes me wanna go Vroom Vroom!

Favorite running social media account?

I am not on any social media (except Strava and LinkedIn)! But when I was on IG, I really liked Coach Jess Movold's account a lot! Especially during the pandemic (possibly all of 2020 and 2021) she would live stream core and strength workout on her story. It made strength training a lot better during that dreadful time.

What do you think is the worst part about being a runner?

The worst part for me is obviously that all of my social life is scheduled around my running schedule. During peak marathon training it can sometime be a bit much.

Best advice to running newbies?

Listen to your body (and your PT!!) and don't run for Strava clout.

Current running goal?

I want to run a 50km ultramarathon.

Any other fun running facts about you?

Being able to run 55+ miles a week without feeling like garbage the next week.