"You have to remain humble because there is always a danger that a problem is lurking around the corner."
--Chairman of Ferrari, Luca Cordero di Montezemolo, www.ft.com, 4/10/02

Chan Robbins played varsity tennis at Duke University during the Eisenhower administration, took up running as a fitness gesture in 1975 while President Ford held office, and ran a personal best in the marathon of 2:31:49 at New Orleans in 1979, age 41. He joined the GNATs running club and ran marathons from 1977-80 because "everyone else in the club was doing it." Today, he has overcome injury problems that nag senior runners- the body recovers more slowly from daily workouts-and ran an even seven minute mile pace (1:10:11) at this year's Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile, where he also served as the seeded runner coordinator. (Robbins volunteered as treasurer for 24 Cherry Blossom races before switching roles in 2002.) Poised yet an unpretentious figure, his introduction to running at age 38 brought instant romance-the sport quickly took priority over tennis-and he continues to cherish a regular weekly mileage of 35 miles. The quantity has dropped down from 8-10 miles a day (1976-1981), but the quality of his running remains true. His sleek physique is ideal for endurance events and his decency projects an image of a gentleman athlete. "If one wants to run successfully, one has to modify the diet" to eliminate junk food and take-out burger fare. Robbins enjoys whole grain bread, Indian and Vietnamese dishes, and an occasional steak or scoop of ice cream.

He has suggested a neighborhood Chesapeake Bagel shop in Arlington for an interview in late January, a place lively with mothers and wandering young boys enjoying an afternoon repast. Robbins lives nearby with his wife, Marie, who is supportive of his athletic endeavors. They are an active couple-she swims, bicycles and rollerblades. He has kept a logbook of workouts and race results for 25 years; the journal allows him to follow the effects of aging. His 10K best times have been 33:53 at the NSO 10K at Hains Point; a best of 35:43 during his 50-54 years; during his 55-59 years he posted a 37:53; the 60-64 years saw 39:23 as his top mark. He explains that the necessity to decrease volume and intensity of daily workouts as one grows older leads to a gradual readjustment of top performance standards. Injuries test one's patience: at age 59, he had surgery done on both feet due to painful heel spurs. He has recovered well from his most serious bout with injuries in 25 years, but remains cautious when training: fartlek and hills rather than track intervals; he runs hard once or twice a week, depending on how well-rested his body feels. Since the surgery, he has also started using co-enzyme Q- 10, blue-green algae, multi-enzymes, and vitamin E; energy bars are useful and chosen casually for their good taste. A runner who grows older gracefully uses planning to derive satisfaction from a good effort rather than relying on one's previous expectations-sage advice from an experienced enthusiast.

During an era when Eisenhower planned strategy to win peace from the tight grip of a Soviet empire in eastern Europe and Kennedy made preparations to fight guerilla forces forty years before the terrorist attacks in New York City and at the Pentagon, Robbins served in the U.S. Army in West Germany. His engaging personality meant he became deeply involved in the local community while posted abroad-a German girlfriend motivated him to learn folk songs; he also skied in the Alps quite a bit. Robbins is open-minded, flexible, and disciplined in his approach to running; his military stint explains a take-no- prisoners attitude towards cheats. His vision is to encourage participation in running, especially amongst seniors, whom he urges to "stay active." His interest in others' achievements (a few years ago Robbins compiled the runner rankings for the Washington Running Report) reflects the value of a long distance community that enjoys group events and provides mutual support at local road races. "People who truly excel don't resent excellence in others . . ." (Joe Paterno, WINNING) Robbins speaks highly of John Elliott, who dominates the men's 60-64 age group locally-he suggests that Elliott is a national caliber runner who does not receive the credit he deserves.

In July Robbins turns 65, a new challenge to make a statement in age group competition. And just in case, he is also toying with the game of golf again-a kinder, gentler sport. "Some people set the world on fire and then are never heard from again," Robbins notes. He prefers unwavering devotion over flaming passion; his running affair continues. He will visit his homestate of Maine in August to run his fourth People's Beach to Beacon 10K hosted by another native, Olympian Joan Benoit Samuelson.