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.