How did you initially get into running?

I was initially inspired to run while cheering for people in the NY marathon but was never a runner myself until the pandemic. Once things opened up, I tried running with groups but nothing really gelled—until one weekend when I ran with Jonny and Jorge on a long Narwhals run. And that’s all it took. I am forever grateful for them. Last summer, I ran with a group of truly beautiful people who completed NBR’s traditional Crownimals together. That experience in particular made me love NBR.

In what ways have you been involved with NBR?

I’m a run leader for the beloved Wednesday Mourning Doves and I coordinate NBR’s newly formed trail running group. I also helped start the 7 Bridges Run (not a race!) which might be my favorite run of the year.

What do you do when you're not running?

Professionally, I work in fashion post-production as a photo-retoucher for art photographers. Unprofessionally, I’m an artist with an active studio and have a drawing and painting practice that is really similar to my running practice. The rest of my time is spent with my incredible wife and dynamic teenage son.

How did you get started in trail running?

I started running trails at the same time I started running streets. It was just part of that whole “get out and get in the woods” vibe that was a little more present back then. I really loved both the adventure and peace of being in the woods. Since then, I’ve run trails all around NY and Europe, including several races.

What inspired you to start the NBR trail run?

My longtime BFF Kelsey and her ultrarunning friends invited me to run at Rockefeller State Park a few times, and I really loved it. My Crownimals friend Lexie and I ran there as well and agreed this is something for NBR to try. And the trail running group grew from that.

What would you say to runners who are curious about trails but intimidated to start?

Running with NBR at Rockefeller is the perfect introduction to trails. You’re not going to injure yourself on the trails with us. We chose Rockefeller for our regular run because the trails there are manicured and super safe. You don’t need special shoes or gear. Sometimes there are horses, or sheep, or chipmunks. We’re back in the city by 11:30 or 12. And just being out in the woods, in the peace of nature, really makes a difference that you can feel. And Jorge swears that it’s the best marathon training.

Best running memory?

One of my favorite running memories is Evan Gregory singing the 1st verse of “The Seven Bridges Road” at the start of the 7 Bridges Run last year. It was equal parts silly and deeply moving.

What’s your favorite run or race that you've done outside of NYC?

My favorite race outside of NYC was the beautiful Maverick Cotswolds X-Trail in Gloucestershire, England. 25k mixed trail with dramatic views, sheep, little English towns, and Sudeley Castle. My wife is an art historian, and we’ve been lucky enough to travel for her research. Some of my best running memories have been running early mornings in medieval towns all over Europe.

What’s something you’re excited for in the future of NYC running?

I’m really excited about all the weird non-NYRR races and events that have started to crop up around the city. It’s a beautiful thing. If you’re having a tough time getting into the big NY races or if you’re a little bored with them, you’re in luck. We now have the Williamsburg Bridge Marathon, the $1 Ultra, the Canal Classic, the 7 Bridges Run, park runs, and tons of trail runs and races, with more added every year.

Any other fun running facts about you?

By the time this post comes out, I’ll be running the Torbar Trail race in Postojna Slovenia!