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:Â Dan DiFonzo
Self-described age group:Â 55-60
Residence:Â Rockville, Md.
Occupation:Â 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:Â I’ve been running since elementary school.
Have you taken a break from running:Â Â Not often. Usually forced breaks due to the occasional injury.
Training shoe:Â 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:Â Continuing to run the JFK 50 miler after losing vision about mid-way through the race.
Running mentors:Â All of the fellow coaches who I currently run with.
My favorite place to run in the D.C. area is:Â Â Rock Creek Park
Favorite local trail:Â Â Rock Creek Trail
My best race was:Â Steamtown Marathon
Favorite local race:Â Parks Half Marathon
Ideal post-run meal:Â Chocolate Milk
Favorite flavor of gel, gu, etc:Â GU Espresso Love–2X Caffeine!
Pet peeve:Â Spelling errors
Goals:Â To continue running pain-free
Your advice for a new runner:Â Â Just run easy
Favorite running book: The New Competitive Runners Handbook
Song in your head during a run:Â 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:Â Enjoy Every Step
Why is the D.C. area a great place to be a runner:Â Â Great trails, great sights and great people.
