PRX PROFILES

MIKE

Birthdate:   7/1970

Hometown:   Penryn, California

Occupation:   Consciensious objector to work.  Actually, recently laid off from computer security work at Sun Microsystems.  I loathe going back into that industry.

Education:   MS Computer Science, UC Davis

Family Life:  Single

Running History:  I don't have much running history.  I started running to lose weight, and then I ran B2B last year.  I have been an occasional runner (off and on) ever since.  You can often find me running (sometimes walking) through Golden Gate park, most days.

Miles per week:  8-10 running, another 10-15 walking/hiking.

Paces:   about 9 minute miles.

Favorite Race:   Well, since there was only one for me, that would be 2002 B2B.  I was stuck in the crowd at the beginning, which was frustrating, but slowly got more and more space, and slowly increased my pace.  By the end, I realized I still had lots and lots of energy and so I sprinted the last 3/4 mile, but I really wish I had sped up sooner, because I had the energy.  I felt like jumping in the ocean for a swim (but of course, I didn't).  Lots of rain.  My ride wasn't there for me.   My friends didn't meet me at footstock (they quit half way through).  But I loved it all the same.

Best Running Experience:  2002 B2B.

Worst Running Experience:   A very good friend and I decided to start training for a Triathlon.  He had been office-bound for too many years, but he's thin and surfs a lot and I thought he could keep up.  We ran three miles.  He never spoke up until the end, but his knees were killing him, and he wasn't able to run again for a couple of weeks.  I felt terrible.

Diet:   I eat really healthy.  Lots of fruits and veges, low fat (actually probably too low).  Meat eater, primarily fish.  I love sushi!

Injuries:   I used to get shin splints, long long ago.  More recently I have gotten plantar fasciitis.  But I haven't had any problems for at least 6 months, so I think I have gotten them beat!  Ask me for advice if you have trouble with these -- I have lots to give.

Non-Running Interests:   Music (guitar, bass, singing, composing... and recently doumbak -- a turkish drum), Close-quarter combat techniques, boxing, weight lifting, travel

Who would star as you in the Hollywood story of your life?  Matt Damon.   His role in Good Will Hunting reminded me of me and my younger brother - especially in the "doing your own thing" aspect of life, and not necessarily what you are good at.