Jen Maranzano is an attorney who writes a little on the side, starting with RunWashington in 2016. She stopped being an attorney for a little last year while to train full time. Read more of her writing here.
Name: Jen Maranzano
Self-described age group: masters
Residence: D.C.
Occupation: Attorney by day, runner by day and night
Volunteer roles in the running world: (as applies) Work with the elite athlete coordination for the Cherry Blossom ten miler
Why you run: I like the challenge of trying to get the most out of myself, and seeing the results of hard work and discipline. And I love how the process brings people together and creates such strong bonds. Plus, running gets me outside every day.
When did you get started running: High School
Have you taken a break from running: I’ve had a lot of injury imposed breaks. Other than that, I always take a couple weeks after a marathon to rest, recharge, and do little to no running.
Training shoe: I’ll wear anything that fits for training. For racing, only the vaporflies will do!
Coach or training group: Dojo of Pain
The hardest race you’ve ever run: I returned to my college for a x-country race that pitted the alumni against current students. Because I usually won x-country races while in college, I started the race hard, determined to recapture my glory days. And then I was struck with the reality of being 20 years older. It was a long 3 miles!
Most adventurous decision you’ve made with your running: Doing a trail race in New Zealand. Technical and terrifying, but an unforgettable experience.
Running mentors: Alan Pemberton
My favorite place to run in the D.C. area is: Hains Point (also my least favorite)
Favorite local trail: Towpath
My best race was: Chicago marathon
Favorite local race: Cherry Blossom
Ideal post-run meal: egg and avocado sandwich with a (very large) cafe au lait
Favorite flavor of gel, gu, etc: I hate gu! But I do think Maurten’s may have some magic in it.
Pet peeve: black ice
Goals: To run for as many more years as possible.
Your advice for a new runner: Be patient. Getting better is all about consistency.
Favorite running book: Running with the Buffalos
Song in your head during a run: It’s always changing. Most recently: Truth Hurts.
Have you dealt with a major injury: Way too many to describe in this format.
Running quote: “Keep showing up.” Des Linden
Why is the D.C. area a great place to be a runner: The running community!
Recent Stories
A break from racing one of my favorite events gave me a chance to help other runners reach their time goals.
Eight local runners will compete in the Olympic Marathon Trials Saturday morning in Orlando.
St. Albans alumnus wins club cross country championship.
Locals contribute to NCAA titles, another Trials qualifier, Prince William County moves toward an indoor track and comments are sought for the Capital Crescent Trail.
Run the Greenway
We are just days away from the 4th annual Run The Greenway Race and
spots are filling up fast! We don’t want any Jedi to be left behind at this year’s
5K, 10K, or 800-meter Kids Fun Run, or virtual
Race to the Rescue 5k
Join PetConnect Rescue at 9:00am on Sunday May 19th for their second annual Race to the Rescue, 5k and children’s fun run.
Taking place at the beautiful Franklin Park in Purcellville VA, this is an event perfect for all. Run/jog/walk