PRX PROFILES

TIFFANY

Birthdate: September 14, 1977

Hometown:  Fairfield, CA

Occupation:  For the moment, I'm on a long-term temporary job as the Executive Assistant to the CEO at CBS MarketWatch.com. I'd hope to become full-time after that, but as of right now the job ends in January. That's when I plan to really concentrate on becoming successful in my Mary Kay business as an Independent Beauty Consultant. Let me know if you need any lip gloss or eyeliner ;-)

Education: BS, Business, USC, 2000

Family Life:  I'm single, living in a typical SF studio. Have you seen "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" - well, that's pretty much by big fat Greek family!!! My parents live in both Las Vegas and Fairfield and I see them about twice a month. My only sister lives in Fairfield with her boyfriend. Hope to have a family of my own one day, but in no hurry...

Running History:  I began running recreationally in college. I never even thought about actually racing. Two years ago I ran my first marathon, and ran my third in October. I've also done a couple half marathons and 10Ks in between there somewhere, and hope to do more! I've never thought of myself as a "runner" but my friends try to convince me differently!

Miles per week:  When I'm training I run about 30-50 per week. When I'm not training, it's more like 20 -- if I'm lucky!

Paces:  On a casual jog, about 9:30/mile. Shorter races it's about 8:15/mile. Marathon has gotten to 9:15/mile. :)

Favorite Race:  I haven't done too many, but I would have to say that the Napa Marathon was absolutely breathtaking. I actually went to high school in Napa (Justin-Siena), but never really appreciated the beauty until March 2002 - that crisp morning was unforgettable.

Best Running Experience:  Probably would have to say finishing my first marathon. It was Los Angeles, March 2001. I had trained over 6 months with the LA Leggers - the Jeff Galloway plan (run/walk). I broke away from my "pace group" around mile 16, where it started going uphill (They have since changed the course because there were so many complaints.) We had expected rain; it remained overcast and dry the entire way. I ran the last 10 with only the voices in my head and the strangers pounding the pavement around me. Heading down the last hill and around the corner with the finish line finally in sight was a moment I'll always remember - and a moment you never get to experience again, finishing your first marathon. I just wanted to stop running! I crossed at my exact time goal of 4:30 and ate everything in sight!!!

Worst Running Experience:  I can't say I've really had a worst experience. Maybe on one of my training runs, the 9 miler where I got to cocky the night before and thought, "It's only 9 miles," and proceeded to drink too much. Yeah, that wasn't too fun the next morning at 8am.

Diet:  What diet? I can never stick to a diet, although I've tried. Pre-race food includes tons of protein bars, carbs, water, veggies, and lots of toast with peanut butter for breakfast. I have a weakness for pizza anytime of the year, especially in San Francisco!

Injuries:  Knock on wood, but I haven't had a serious injury. I experienced arch and heel pain in my feet so I've been fitted for orthodics and wear them in my running shoes now. Let's hope I stay healthy! I think the key is to not overdo it on the running, and also to incorporate a lot of cross-training into my workouts.

Non-Running Interests:  Cooking, baking, reading, yoga, volunteering, traveling, skiing, spending time with my family and friends, shopping. I try to fit that all into my schedule -- but it gets hard to do it all and still find time to run lately!

Who would star as you in the Hollywood story of your life?  I think Reese Witherspoon would make a great Tiffany...I like to be funny in that goofy kind-of way. I'd like to see how she'd portray me because she seems so fun and quirky and energetic.