Questions

Why do you run? I feel that running is a transcendental experience that allows me to release tension, while simultaneously building relationships with people in and outside of the local community.

 

What do you not like about running? I don’t like the feeling of lactic acid building up in my body, nor do I enjoy running in unpleasant weather conditions.

 

Who was the first person you talked to in Front Runners and what did you talk about? I actually met Seth Kalish at a local bar in Logan Circle called Mova, previously known as Halo, through some mutual friends. His genuine and friendly demeanor led me to believe that I would find similar qualities from other DCFRs. This was very apparent at my first run with the group. Having recently moved to the city, the club immediately allowed me to build a network of close friends, while enjoying the benefits of frequent exercise.

 

What is your favorite part about the club? I take pride in the knowing that I’m part of an organization that reaches out to support its local community in many ways. Not only do the DCFRs allow people to live healthier lives through exercise, but its members also volunteer in numerous ways such as supporting fundraisers for local food drives, cancer research, scholarships and clearing debris from parks and recreational facilities, just to name a few.

 

What is your favorite club running route? I enjoy the runs on Tuesday evenings at the National Mall. During the entire run, you are steps away from some of the Nation’s most historic landmarks including the Washington Monument, Jefferson, Lincoln, Roosevelt, WWII, Korean War and Vietnam War Memorials. The dirt path makes it easy on the joints as well.

 

Which is your favorite day to run with the club? Saturday mornings at 23rd and P St NW. With almost 300 members in the organization, this is the week’s largest gathering of DCFRs. This run is centrally located in Dupont Circle right next to Rock Creek Parkway. Runners often join each other for breakfast at a local bagel shop or nearby Starbucks.

 

Do you race and if so, which is your favorite race? I have not yet participated in any of the races, but from what I hear the Army 10 miler and Cherry Blossom 10 miler seem to be some of the most popular.

 

Are you a fair weather Front Runner or a hail, rain, and snow hardy soul? I’ve been through it all, 100 + degree weather and blizzard conditions.

 

Bagels Etc. or Starbucks and why? I don’t drink caffeinated or carbonated beverages, so I tend to prefer the food at the bagel shop. There seems to be a lot more healthy choices compared to the delectable’s offered at Starbucks. However, Starbucks has a more cosy lounge/dining area both inside and out, which facilities better communication between the DCFRs.

Which is your favorite Happy Hour hangout? I would have to say EFN lounge on (1318 9th St. NW) because the drinks are cheap, with reasonable alcohol content, there’s great music, pool tables, and they have more than enough space to accommodate the growing number of DCFRs.

Which Golden Girl are you? I could only hope that I’m half as whimsical as Estelle Getty.

Have you ever dated a Front Runner and is it a good idea? I have not dated anyone on the Front Runners, but there are plenty of single, attractive bachelors to choose from. The best part about dating a Front Runner is that you can believe us when we say we come with an “athletic build”.

Now that same-sex marriage has come to DC, have you anyone in mind? It’s nice to finally have this option, but considering I’m only 23, I’ll need a few more years before someone puts a ring on this finger.

What’s your favorite place to go in Washington? It certainly is not Town Dance Boutique (2009 8th St. NW). Two to three times a year is enough for me there. I often frequent Nellie’s Sport Bar. Although it can be a bit crowded at times, it’s a great place to grab some food and enjoy conversation, sports games, music, drag bingo and other forms of entertainment with close friends. This seems a popular hangout spot for many DCFRs.

Which Front Runner inspires you most? Eddie Valentine is a great athlete who trains really hard aka…running beast! Even though he is amazingly talented and can be tough on himself, he has always been really supportive and a positive influence on many Front Runners, including myself. Basically, he is the big brother/pocket gay I never had.

What is your most cherished memory of the club? It is the DCFR Annual Celebration Party 2009. It was the perfect combination of good food, friends and fun.

What advice would you give to new people joining? Make sure you experience the Saturday runs to get a really good feel of the club culture. Also, pick a few races early on so that you can create a training regimen to commit yourself to. Don’t be intimidated to run with us. There are runners of all different skill levels and backgrounds.

What is your motto in life? “Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.” – Maria Robinson

Interview by Brian Beary, Design by Marcel Acosta

March 2010