August Runner of the Month: James Dye
If you’ve talked sports with someone at North Brooklyn Runners - you’ve probably talked sports with James Dye.
A dyed in the wool Notre Dame fan (see what we did there?) and an all around great running buddy. You’ll find James everywhere NBR is - from everything from Olympics watch parties and post-Thursday Night Track drinks at Turkey’s Nest to Saturday coffee runs and race days in every borough.
James isn’t just a fan - he’s one of the fixtures that make NBR a welcoming place for every runner - and that’s why he’s one of our August Runners of the Month!
When did you join NBR and why?
I joined NBR in November 2021. I had been back into running for about 2 years by then and wanted to find people to run with. Then I heard about a coffee run that took place blocks away from my apartment. I've been with NBR ever since!
In what ways have you been involved with NBR?
Since joining, I have become a leader of Thursday Night Athletics/Track with the amazing Carrie/Liz/Aidan/James King! I also regularly run with the club about 3-4 times a week (and particularly enjoy the food/coffee runs).
What do you do when you're not running?
I am a gigantic sports fan so I go to quite a few events and games (including traveling for college Football/US Mens and Womens Soccer). I also love all different types of music so I will try to get to lots of concerts throughout the city. Walking long distances to explore other neighborhoods throughout the city is also something I love doing.
How did you initially get into running?
I started running in middle school and ran XC/distance track. I took a long break but then got back into it in 2019.
What is your favorite race distance?
I like both the half marathon and the mile! They are both completely different tests but I usually feel energized by both (except for my nemesis race the NYRR Brooklyn Half).
Best running memory?
Race-wise it is running the NYC Half this year with Winn Koster and having an absolute blast. I also loved taking part in half of a Manhattan perimeter run that Ken and Miranda absolutely crushed putting together.
Favorite running route in NYC?
Running along the water past the Navy Yard/Brooklyn Bridge Park down to Red Hook will always make me smile. Also the food is incredible down there.
Any running-related superstitions?
I really try to get to any race I'm running an hour or more ahead of time. It just allows me time to get ready for what is in front of me that day. Very different from me showing up just on time for most club runs.
What has running taught you or changed about you?
It has taught me that I can take on so much more than I initially give myself credit for. If you had told me 10 years ago that I'd regularly be running 30-45 miles per week I would have thought you were absolutely insane.
Favorite post-race food?
Pizza or an everything bagel breakfast sandwich will both hit the spot.
Favorite song to run to / that makes you want to run?
This year it's Baddadan- Chase and Status. Anything with a high tempo will always be good for me.
Favorite running social media account?
Don't really have one! I'm not on social media that much but greatly enjoy all the posts/memes I am sent by fellow members.
What do you think is the worst part about being a runner?
Getting up extremely early to go on weekend long runs- the logic is sound but I just want to sleep!
Best advice to running newbies?
The most important thing about running is that you are running for yourself and your own personal joy. I have burned out in the past and if you listen to yourself and what you want out of running you will have the best time.
Current running goal?
The TCS New York City Marathon this year- I always said NYC would be my first one and it's almost time to tear it up.
Any other fun running facts about you?
I will always be energized by running new routes so if you're trying something new let me know! I also want to really do more trail running/hiking so I'm going to try to do more of that going forward.
