Monumental Runner – Mike Harlow

Name: Mike Harlow

Self-described age group: 65, over-the-hill geezer

Residence: Forest Hill, Md.

Occupation: (if applicable) Retired

Why I run: Lifestyle change when I turned 50. Used to be a two-pack-a-day smoker. Quit when I turned 50 and started running.

 

When did you get started running: 15 years ago when I turned 50.

Have you taken a break from running: Yes, two years ago I was diagnosed with prostate issues and cancer in my left kidney. Kidney was removed, cancer and prostate were treated. Was in a no-running mode for about six months.

Training shoe: Hoka, my go-to shoe ever since they came out.

Coach or training group: Run Farther and Faster; Julie Sapper and Lisa Reichmann are my coaches

The hardest race you’ve ever run: My first Marine Corps Marathon. I did everything wrong that race because I was so caught up in the excitement I forgot to do things like hydrating and taking energy gels. Let’s just say it didn’t end well…

 

Most adventurous decision you’ve made with your running: To run at least two marathons every year and this year to start racing in a kilt. 

Running mentors: My daughter Jennifer and my coaches Julie and Lisa

My favorite place to run in the D.C. area is: When I worked in Alexandria, I used to run from my office along the Potomac all the way to the D.C. line and back at lunch

Favorite local trail: The NCR Trail

My best race was: The Shamrock Marathon 2007 – my PR race

Favorite local race: Marine Corps Marathon

Ideal post-run meal: A big greasy cheeseburger with fries and a ice-cold large Sam Adams draft or two

Favorite flavor of gel, gu, etc: Honey Stinger

Pet peeve: Cars disrespecting me when I’m running on the road shoulders

Goals: To keep running into my 80s

Your advice for a new runner: Get a coach/trainer

Favorite running book: Pre: The Story of America’s Greatest Running Legend, Steve Prefontaine

Song in your head during a run: Without a doubt “Lose Yourself” by Eminem

Have you dealt with a major injury: Torn both calves and one quad which required heavy PT, including dry needling

Why is the D.C. area a great place to be a runner: Because there are so many liked-mind people on the street every day to meet, run with, make lifelong friendships with. Runners are some of the most caring people I have ever been around.

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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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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

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