Find Your Strong Project: Week 2 Spotlight

“What’s the best running advice you ever got?” asked week 2 of the Find Your Strong Project. One of this week’s winners, Paul S., shares the story behind his winning advice in a Q&A with dailymile below:

Paul’s advice: “ SUCK IT UP! ”

Tough love, Paul! Who gave you this advice?

When I began running ultras in 1999, this was the advice that time and again experienced ultra runners would tell me. It’s now even the motto for the group I run with called the “Midwest Ultra Runners” started by my friend Misty.

Paul at the Dances with Dirt 50 Miler

When do you remind yourself to “suck it up”?

Ultra racing and training is a different animal compared to training for a 5k, 10k or marathon. Being a father of two, I need to run at 3-4 am in the morning to get my training in. I need to remind myself of those words some mornings when I’m tired or just don’t want to run.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I wear many hats life. I’m a fitness specialist for SeniorFitness where we provide exercise programs for seniors living in independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing and memory loss centers. I’m also father, husband, running coach, race director and personal trainer!

How long have you been running ultras, and what kind of distances are we talking?

I first started running in 1993, and moved on to ultras in 1999 as I was attending Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, AZ. “Ultra” by definition is any distance greater than a marathon (ie 50k), and so far I have completed 50km’ers, 50 milers, 100 milers and even 150 milers.

Do you have any advice for runners thinking about running their first ultra?

Ultras are a whole different world – they’re difficult, but also very rewarding. Training on terrain similar to what you will experience at race helps greatly.  Nutrition and hydration are also vital for success in ultra distances, as is proper mental preparation when developing your training program.

Paul and the Midwest Ultra Runners at Clinton Lake

What’s the Crazy Legs Race Series?

The purpose Crazy Legs Race Series (CLRS) is to promote non-pavement races in the Northwest Indiana region through the development and management of new and existing races. At each of my events, participants experience a fun and challenging course designed in a low-key atmosphere. Races are held in parks or areas in the Lake, Porter and Laporte counties. For those interested in learning more, they can head over the race website for more information: www.crazylegsraceseries.info.

What’s the most rewarding moment you’ve experienced as a race director?

Race directing is difficult, but when a runner comes up and tells you what a great experience it has been for them, the time and effort is suddenly all worth it.

How and when did you first hear of dailymile?

About a year ago a friend recommended the site to track workouts. I have been on other on-line sites and have tracked my workout in paper form (I know, I’m old) since 1993. I love Dailymile and feel that if I do not post my workout – it did not actually happen.

What will be your first run in your new Kinvara 3s?

I’m heading to Loveland, Colorado in May to direct my Crazy Legs 10k Trail run, so I’m excited to run in them while there.

Also for those interested in Ultras, here’s our crew’s video from the 2010 Leadville 100 miler:

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Thanks to Paul for his time, and congratulations to all the second week winners! You can find each week’s submissions at saucony.com/strong.