Name: Ann Pohlers
Self-described age group: 45-49
Residence: Vienna
Occupation: Software Project Manager
Why you run: I like pushing my physical limits to see what is possible
When did you get started running: 1998 while serving in the U.S. Peace Corps in Africa
Have you taken a break from running: Yes, there were some years where I was just burnt out.
Training shoe: Brooks Ghost 10
Coach or training group: Northern Virginia Running Club
The hardest race you’ve ever run: El Cajon 20K
Most adventurous decision you’ve made with your running: To run a 50-mile trail ultra when I turn 50
Running mentors: Deena Kastor, Pam Smith, and all the women who made running possible for my generation
My favorite place to run in the D.C. area is: On the National Mall
Favorite local trail: W&OD
My best race was: Leesburg 20K 2018 – Broke a 12-year-old PR by 12 seconds
Favorite local race: Greasy Gooney 10K and MCM 10K
Ideal post-run meal: Tacos
Favorite flavor of gel, gu, etc: Huma Gel, lemon flavor
Pet peeve: Runners who see you are running faster than they are and make passing difficult in a race.
Goals: Run a sub-5-hour marathon in November 2018 (same time as my first marathon 18 years ago), and run a 50-mile trail ultra in 2020
Your advice for a new runner: Trust your training
Favorite running book: ohh this is tough, Older, Stronger, Faster by Margaret Webb, and Marathon Woman by Kathrine Switzer
Running quote: From Coach Joe Vigil – “Bring a good attitude”
Why is the D.C. area a great place to be a runner: There are so many trails everywhere that keep runners safe from traffic!!! I come from San Diego where we had to run on the road most of the time.
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.
Down The Stretch Track Fest
Down The Stretch Track Fest is a track celebration!
A distance-focused track meet at George Mason University featuring community-to-pro-level races on Friday evening, May 17th.
New Balance merch, Aslin Beer, music all night, and announcers keeping you up-to-date on the
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
