42, Firefighter with Arlington Fire Department
Multi-Sport: I have been running competitively all my life. Since I was in elementary school, up to my college days until now. Football, basketball, and baseball are all the sports I’ve played, but my favorite is track and field.
Team Player: Placing was not my goal in the 2019 St. Jude Marathon; I have placed in the top 10% in the past. I ran in support of some good friends of mine that needed a cheering partner.
Most Memorable Race: Running the St. Jude Half Marathon in 2017 with full turnout gear and an air pack. (Turnout gear is what firefighters refer to as their personal protective equipment.)
Delayed Gratification: I was registered for the Mississippi Blues Half Marathon, Selma to Montgomery Bike Ride, Selma to Montgomery 51-Miler Run, and the Little Rock Half Marathon before everything was cancelled due the COVID-19 madness.
The Joy of Running: I find training and racing to be therapeutic. You have some sort of peace from within when it is just you and the pavement.
Fitness Motivation: Motivation for me is to stay fit for my family, especially for my daughter Laila, 9, and my son Ethan, 3, who keep me on my toes.
Obstacle Course: In 2005, I was involved in a motorcycle accident. I had to learn how to walk again. It was a tough road to fight, which is the reason why I’m still so motivated and competitive.
Side Hustle: I am good with my hands. I do home improvements, contract work, and low-voltage wiring for homes and commercial properties.
Go-To Curbside: Firebirds pasta with a salad.
Get Away: My family and I took a trip to London and Paris in 2019. I really didn’t get a chance to do any running, but we definitely did a lot of walking and trying a lot of different foods.
Spirit Animal: A lion because of all the things that have challenged me. You have to have courage and the heart of a lion to push through those obstacles.
Quote: “No man or woman is left behind.” and “You are what you eat.”
INTERVIEW BY HAILEY THOMAS. PHOTO BY TINDALL STEPEHENS.
