Local Runner Profile: Chris Jones

This post will be the first in a series of local runner profiles. Ever wonder who that person was you saw running recently who looked so fast (or slow, in my case)? Well, it's time to put the face with the pace. We're starting this off by interviewing Chris Jones.

Name: Chris Jones

Home: Davidson, NC

Age: 32

Years of Running: 17

Why Do I Run? Wow, too many reasons to list here....at this point running is a big part of who I am. I'm not sure what will happen down the road, but I feel blessed to have had a good running career, even if it were to end tomorrow. Still whittling away at PR's though, so I guess I'm a late bloomer when it comes to getting faster.

Favorite Running Shoes: Asics Bandito

Running Insights: A few based on my experience: (1) Mileage is the #1 predictor of faster race times, but must be developed and built up very slowly (we are talking YEARS of progression here, not weeks or months). (2) Strength-training will help you stay injury-free - I do 2-3 30 minute sessions a week working all parts of the body. (3) Walking is a good way to cross-train and keep the blood flowing; I like taking a 20-30 minute walk during the afternoon if I do a fast session in the morning.

Where Do You Train: Primarily the roads and trails in the Davidson and Cornelius areas.

Favorite Race Distance: Don't really have a favorite....5K to marathon, and everything in between.

Miles Per Week: Usually 50 or so. During recent marathon training, I've been able build up into 80's without a problem though.

Favorite Race: The Great Race, a point-to-point 10K in Pittsburgh PA. The event usually pulls out 10-12,000 runners. Scenic, fast, and fun.

Proudest Race Accomplishment: 53rd place in the 2008 Marine Corp Marathon (editor's note - 2:46:28). Though I think this answer may change based on how good my training and racing has been of late!

Heroes: My grandfather George Dill. He was a mayor, a pharmacist, and a funeral home director all at the same time (not to mention an active churchgoer and a leading member of many commissions, clubs and activities). He died when I was 4 but I remember taking walks with him and swinging on the porch swing.

Thanks, Chris, and keep up the blistering pace!