1. What made you decide to run the Wild Miles Relay? And if you're returning, what made you want to return?

I first started running about 2 years ago, I try to average 3 marathons and 3 half marathons a year. While reading the Active.com site, I found a link for Wild Miles. I didn't know anyone who would consider Wild Miles "fun". So I thought to myself, "I'll get online and meet some strangers so I can run around the desert for a few days, what could possibly go wrong?" Well it turns out nobody ended up killing me and burying me in the desert. I don't think I heard anyone whine at all last year, everyone on the team was genuinely nice. I'm returning again because I need activities like this to save me from the soul-crushing monotony of my job.

2. Tell us a little about you.

I am a software engineer by trade. I have spent a lot of time taking courses at UCSD-Extension getting certificates which are to supplement my theory-based degree with practical knowledge. I've been living in Carlsbad for the past 7-8 years but originally am a midwesterner. Yes, I was born in a Kansas City, MO suburb then eventually moved to Overland Park, KS, I hope I'm not making everyone jealous!

Last year I sent a link out about an influential book I read, "Ultramarathon Man" by Dean Karnazes. I enjoy reading about people doing wacked out stuff, such as running a marathon on Antarctica. I would like to become a stronger swimmer and get out on my bike some more. Perhaps I'll enter a triathlon one day.

3. What motivates you as a runner?

I enjoy drinking stroke-inducing energy drinks and running for long distances. The feeling I get afterwards (exhaustion) helps to kill stress. Entering the various marathons I do, has really opened my eyes to what is capable. I've seen people much fatter and older than me absolutely kicking my butt out on the course! There is a hill by my house which I considered steep but after running the La Jolla Half it's now laughable to me. Once a guy walking with a cane and wearing a lobster hat beat me at the Carlsbad marathon! To summarize all this rambling, the thought of stretching my limitations is what motivates me.

4. What are some of your favorite hobbies?

I try to stay active with the running and what not. I recently started doing yoga. It's a great way to feel "high" yet still be able to pass a random drug test. I recommend yoga to any runner, the best part of the class is the "corpse pose" at the end. You just lie there totally relaxed! I think I shall dedicate the rest of my life to mastering this "spiritual" skill.

I also do the standard stuff, listen to music, read, watch movies. etc.

5. What do you hope to get out of the Wild Miles Relay?

Escapism. I don't want to be thinking about work, money, the arsons I've been committing, or anything else.

I want a mini-vacation in a mini-van.