Dan DiFonzo is a public relations professional who has been writing for RunWashington, usually about his native Montgomery County, since 2014. That includes a tribute to friend and fellow coach Mike Broderick, published earlier this year. Read more of his work here
Name: Dan DiFonzo
Self-described age group: 55-60
Residence: Rockville, Md.
Occupation: Public Relations Professional
Volunteer roles in the running world: (as applies) Pacer for the Cherry Blossom Ten Miler, Coach for MCRRC’s Experienced Marathoners Program (XMP), MCRRC Race Announcer, various MCRRC volunteer roles
Why you run: The endorphin high, camaraderie, and achieving short and long term goals. .
When did you get started running: I’ve been running since elementary school.
Have you taken a break from running: Not often. Usually forced breaks due to the occasional injury.
Training shoe: Asics Nimbus
Coach or training group: XMP
The hardest race you’ve ever run: Hmmmmm….probably my first marathon. The Marine Corps Marathon in 1994.
Most adventurous decision you’ve made with your running: Continuing to run the JFK 50 miler after losing vision about mid-way through the race.
Running mentors: All of the fellow coaches who I currently run with.
My favorite place to run in the D.C. area is: Rock Creek Park
Favorite local trail: Rock Creek Trail
My best race was: Steamtown Marathon
Favorite local race: Parks Half Marathon
Ideal post-run meal: Chocolate Milk
Favorite flavor of gel, gu, etc: GU Espresso Love–2X Caffeine!
Pet peeve: Spelling errors
Goals: To continue running pain-free
Your advice for a new runner: Just run easy
Favorite running book: The New Competitive Runners Handbook
Song in your head during a run: Don’t Fear the Reaper
Have you dealt with a major injury: Thankfully, no. Just a few bouts of plantar fasciitis and some nagging meniscus fragments floating in my knee.
Running quote: Enjoy Every Step
Why is the D.C. area a great place to be a runner: Great trails, great sights and great people.
Recent Stories
Looking for our race calendar? Click here Submit races here or shop local for running gear
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A break from racing one of my favorite events gave me a chance to help other runners reach their time goals.
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Blackwater Canyon Half Marathon
A point to point race on pavement, dirt, and gravel. Course descends 1400 ft. Entry will close at 200 runners. $60 before August 13; $75 after August 13. Start at 9 am in Thomas; Finish at Mill Race Park, Parsons.
Blue Ridge Marathon
10K, Team Relay, Half Marathon, Full Marathon, Double Marathon in Roanoke, Virginia.
April 18, 2026
More elevation change than any other road race in the country and a full weekend of live music, recovery events, and southern hospitality.
