Jason & Gina Loyd

The stage is set.  The crowd’s assembled.  The “limelight” awaits.  Behind the scenes, the warm up begins.  Gear is checked, strings are fine-tuned, and preparations made, both physically and mentally.  There is no “RUSH”.  This will be no “fly by night” performance.  She stands at her mark, with her wild, black hair partially tamed by a band of colors and red lips that outlast any “marathon”.  He takes his place beside her; head shaved clean, with tattoos that’ll tell a story (that’s if you can keep up).  Now, there is only one thing left to say…

“Are you ready to ROCK?!”  Yeah?!  Well, you better be, because our two Runners of the Month (ROTM) approach running like Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart of RUSH approach a stage in a packed arena, like true rock stars!  And they would know, since they’ve seen RUSH live in concert (a few times, I think)!  Get your Zippos out (or iPhone apps up and ready) and read on for a Rolling Stone style interview in honor of our own Gina and Jason Loyd.

NRC:  So, let’s start at the beginning.  Where were you born? 

GINA:  I was born in Manhasset, New York.  Jason was born in Nashville.

NRC:  As ROTM, we know you run.  What people may not know is that you both are officially ultra runners and Jason, that you recently PR’d at your third Ironman.  I have to know did you have any athletic interests growing up?

GINA:  Swimming and Ballet.

JASON:  Baseball in high school.

NRC:   Really?  I’m kind of surprised neither of you answered cross-country or track, knowing you now.  So when did your non-running paths finally meet?

GINA:  We met at the scrub sink in the operating room.

JASON: It was my first time working with this new (to our hospital) Dr. Hamrang.

GINA:  I couldn’t even see all of Jason’s face, because he already had his mask up, but I fell in love with him at first sight and instantly knew he would be the father of my children.

JASON:  When I saw her I was, let’s say, pleasantly surprised. She was beautiful, talented and extremely intelligent. Suffice it to say I assumed she was way out of my league. I’m a very lucky man.

NRC:  Wow!  That is amazing!  Sounds like there was definitely chemistry in the midst of all that biology, and years later you can still see sparks when you’re together.  Any recent family celebrations to note? 

JASON:  On February 13th we celebrated our 12th wedding anniversary. Twelve years ago Gina and I ran away together to Las Vegas (we bought our plane tickets the night before) after a 2-year engagement.  We were struck with a fit of inspiration when trying to decide what to do for Valentine’s Day.  We realized that the day before would be Friday the 13th and we thought, “That is the day”.

NRC:  What a cool story!  You have two incredible kids and, I hear, a few pets that keep things interesting. 

GINA:  Yes, we have a boy who will turn 10 years old this month named Cyrus K and a 6-year-old girl named Erin Rose.  As far as pets, the elder statesman of the bunch is Tommy, our chatty 15–year-old, tuxedo Tomcat (also known as Darth Kitty). Lucky Luke Loyd is our 5-year-old black golden doodle (the sweetest dog ever). Cyrus has a dwarf hamster named Geri (to go with Tom the cat).  He also had 2 fiddler crabs, but we’re now down to one. At press time we may have none.  Erin Rose has an empty fish bowl that is between fishes at the moment.

NRC:  That’s a lot to keep up with, especially with all the training you do and your demanding jobs.  What’s something you enjoy about your work?  Anything, that’s helped you in your running world?

GINA:  I am a managing partner at Genesis Women’s Care, Inc. and an OB/GYN.  I am also an active committee member at Stonecrest Medical Center and currently hold the office of Secretary/Treasurer of the Medical Executive Committee.  What I like about my job the most is delivering babies.  I did my first delivery in 1993 and have performed thousands of deliveries since. The long work hours as an obstetrician translate well into ultra running.

JASON: I am a RN/First Assistant in the operating room.  I work at the same hospital I’ve worked at for 20 years on Tuesdays of each week and on Wed. and Thurs. I work with a plastic surgeon at a Smyrna ambulatory surgery center.  My favorite part of my job is sewing, oddly enough, which I get to do plenty of on the plastic surgery days. I also just enjoy scrubbing in with the docs and getting my gloves dirty helping to fix what is wrong.  I know that might sound crass, like working on a car, but it’s the truth.

NRC:  Not at all.  Helping people is also part of your running stories, so let’s talk more about that.  When did you start running and why? 

GINA:  I was volunteering at the Country Music 1/2 Marathon finish line, turned my head for a second and saw the marathon runners collapsing at the finish line and being wrapped up in mylar.  It affected me so much that I went out the next day and ran my first mile. I never thought of anything during that mile other than at the end I would need to make another 25.2 miles to be a marathon runner.  At the end of my first marathon, all I could think of was running my first 50 miler.

NRC:  Those finish lines can be some powerful inspiration! 

JASON:  She was volunteering at that half marathon, because it was my first half marathon. We missed each other at the finish line, she says, because I was “so much faster than she expected”.  I know that it was really because she was mesmerized by the marathoners.

NRC:  How funny.  So how about you, Jason?

JASON:  I started running off and on in the early 2000’s as an addition to my gym workouts. I didn’t start running in earnest until I was preparing for my first triathlon, the Memphis in May Olympic Tri in 2007.  The NRC has been instrumental in my coming to actually love running and not just doing it to train for a tri. Endurance sports of all kinds have also contributed handily in quitting my pack a day smoking habit 4 years ago.

NRC:  Congrats!  That’s not easy.  How did you first find out about NRC?  Do you remember who you ran with that first time out?

JASON:  Our good friend of 11 years who we work with, [NRCer] Yong Kim, kept encouraging Gina to come out and run with them.  Gina also kept seeing so many of their runners out in groups on her long solo runs on Saturday mornings.  Around this time, I met [NRCer] Rachel Eller at the preschool that both of our children attended.  I’d noticed the NRC sticker on her car.  So, one day we pulled up behind her vehicle at the school and Gina was so interested to meet this person with the “50K” and “NRC” stickers on her car that we waited so that Gina could talk to her.  She was extraordinarily welcoming and encouraged Gina to join the group also.

GINA:  My first run was on a Saturday morning with NRC and it was with Yong Kim and John Pryor.  Jason joined much later at my urging, but wasn’t able to attend very often until the childcare started up regularly which has been a boon to us.

NRC:  Gina, I heard you placed first female in your age group for the Black Warrior Trail 50K and had a 55K PR at the 2016 Pistol Ultra Run.  I also saw Jason earned a bronze level status as an Ironman for having a great 2015 season and placing in the top 10% of his age group, plus took 2^nd place in his age group in his first ultramarathon, the Pistol 55K.  I know you’ve set a lot of goals and run a lot of races.  What others stick out in your mind?

GINA:  After 13 marathons and 4 ultra marathons, I’m proudest of the 50 mile Nashville Ultra in 2014.  This was my favorite distance.  The Flying Monkey was my favorite marathon and I ran it for the first time in 2015.  In 2014, I really enjoyed Jason pacing me to my PR of 4:30:01 at the San Diego Marathon and in 2015 I had the honor of pacing Mayor Jimmy Alexander to first place in his age group at the Carmel Marathon.  Still, to have been named the MVP of NRC’s Miles For Amelia Run benefitting Tucker’s House was my greatest accomplishment.  I ran 31 miles that day around a half-mile track and my friend David Dye ran 40 miles.  This event means more to me than any race I’ve ever run.

JASON:  My first Ironman was special in Los Cabos, Mexico 2013.  At the end, I ran my first marathon.  They both nearly ended me.  Ironman Louisville 2015 was special because it was my PR (11:12) and I had the privilege of being paced/encouraged during the marathon by both Gina (on foot) and Yong Kim (by bike).  Rocket City Marathon in 2014 was huge because it was the first time I broke 4 hours with a 3:45 and gave me the confidence to go for more in my running.  It was also my first time at a big race with a large NRC group, which was extraordinary.

NRC:  Do I dare ask, what’s next?

GINA:  Strolling Jim 41.2 road ultra marathon.  My real goal is to go farther and get stronger in more extreme conditions.

JASON:  The Oak Barrel Half Marathon and the Chattanooga Ironman in October but I’m sure I will find a few other things to do between those two.

NRC:  When you rise to the level of running (and biking and swimming) that you two have; a level that I will take the liberty of labeling “Rockstar”, one might beg to ask, why?   

GINA:  I run for the runner’s high.

NRC:  Hah!  Your positivity and philosophy on life is a big part of that, I’m sure.  Like your Facebook posts often read, “Happy to be alive!”…  I can say from running some shorter distances with you that even then you bring a sense of appreciation and wonder to the run.  I would think you’d have to have that attitude to tackle the challenges you take on.  What keeps you running, Jason?

JASON:  My favorite thing about running has become the camaraderie. Sharing that sense of accomplishment at the end of a race that runs through us all.

NRC:  Well said.  And whether the end of that race is 25 minutes or 10 hours after the start, it is runners like you who show what it means to really enjoy the journey and not just the destination.  On behalf of your fellow NRCers, congratulations and thanks for letting us get to know you both a little better. 

GINA – Speed Round:
Hobbies:  Swimming, yoga, weight lifting
Favorite RUSH song/lyric:  Marathon – “You can do a lot in a lifetime, if you don’t burn out too fast. You can make the most of the distance. First you need endurance. First you have got to last.”
Dream splurge:  A mobile home to travel the country while running.
Must-have piece of gear:  Hoka shoes.

JASON – Speed Round:
Hobby:  Model building
Music that motivates you:  Arcade Fire. Maybe some early Motley Crue pre race.
Dream splurge:  A new watch or bike… depending on the enormity of the splurge.
Must-have piece of gear:  Head gear (hat, cap or buff). Without hair, the sweat runs right into your face…

Tara Underwood

Unassuming.  Webster’s Dictionary defines the word as not pretentious or arrogant; modest, and the picture next to it should be NRCer, Tara Underwood.  At first glance, her light blond hair and effortless smile might resemble more of a Disney princess than an ultra marathoner, but go out on a run with her and you’ll see why muddy trails cower in her presence.

Born in Gallatin, TN, Tara was five years old when her family moved to Decatur, AL where she spent her formidable years.  She claims she had no athletic ability as a child, so she obviously saved it all for adulthood.  After college, she traveled north to live in the Cincinnati area staying there for 8 years until finally circling back near her birthplace, to settle in Brentwood.

In 2010, Nissan was raffling free entries to employees for the Middle Half.  A co-worker challenged her to put her name in, but she was not selected.  Inspired by the challenge, she thought, ‘Why not just register!’  Like a lone wolf, she trained alone and completed that race and several half marathons before an injury flared in 2012.  By then, she was burned out and needed a break.

She’d heard of NRC several months before the 1^st Couch to 5K, but was nervous about showing up.  After talking to a friend about the C25K flyers one day, she decided to sign up as motivation to start running again.  I’d say she found her motivation and then some.

Since then she has made many running accomplishments.  The Carmel Full Marathon 2014 and Stump Jump Trail 50K 2015 stand out among the rest, not because they were both firsts; it was the training leading up to them that made them the most memorable.  “Having Kelli Alexander, Rachel Eller and Elizabeth Pfeiffer by my side, encouraging me and challenging my self-perceived limits was amazing,” said Tara.  “They made the many hours and early mornings worth it!”

For anyone considering an ultra or ultra trail, Tara is a great source of inspiration.  She signed up for Fleet Feet’s 13-week ultra trail training program earning the designation of “Ultra Dirtbag” as she upped (and downed) her running game on the paths at Percy Warner Park.  She definitely felt the training plan made it easy (albeit minus the actual running); you just follow the schedule.

Still with any goal that lofty, there will be challenges to overcome.  For Tara, a big lesson she learned was how to not get overwhelmed by the end goal.  When the enormity of it all was too much she told herself to just take it one training session at a time and trust Fleet Feet when they said ‘If she followed the plan, she’d be ready’.

Was there ever a moment when she thought she might not be able to do it?  More than once during training, she admitted.  But, her husband Daniel, also a NRCer, would remind her that she’s too stubborn to give up on anything she’s set her mind on doing.

That stubbornness was put to the test when hard rains turned the Stump Jump course into a muddy mess.  Tiring and treacherous in some places, even experienced ultra athletes were calling it the toughest trail course they’d ever run.

During the race, Tara felt strong and never doubted she would finish until she was about 5 minutes from the 21-mile cut off.  Tara and NRCer Rachel Eller ended up crossing the checkpoint just 3 minutes too late, but since they ran in, the race personnel let them go on!  With that they were rejuvenated and pushed through the remaining mucky miles to the finish line!

Need more proof that Tara got a hold of the “good Kool-Aid”?  When asked about Ragnar 2014, she can actually be quoted as saying, “What an experience being trapped in a van with some of my favorite people for 36 hours!”  If you were there running down the back roads of Tennessee all hours of the night, you might have caught a glimpse of the ever-elusive Hellcats. What is a hellcat, you ask?  According to Tara – NRCer Ken Moore in all his glory!

Tara and her husband, Daniel, have two bright and beautiful daughters, Haley (age 12) and Caroline (age 10).  Going the distance in marriage and in miles, the two ran the 2015 Carmel Marathon together, his first!  They also have a tradition of running the Turkey Trot 5k in Huntsville, AL and this year will be their sixth.

Tara gives back to NRC in more ways than one.  Since the 1^st C25K program prompted her comeback to running, Tara makes a point to mentor the 3-1 group every year and loves seeing the participants’ confidence build week to week.  She was key in NRC’s involvement with the WALK TN challenge, which won Nolensville the title of “Most Active Town in Tennessee” and recently accepted the Secretary position on the NRC board.

As a family, the Underwoods have participated in the annual NRC Turkey Challenge, Miles for Amelia fundraiser and NRC Angel Tree that benefits area elementary students.  “I am honored to be part of a club that is so much more than its name implies,” says Tara.  “I am proud that the community recognizes that as well.”

ROTM SPEED ROUND
Favorite board game: Apples to Apples
Top race on your bucket list­: Chicago Marathon
Favorite food after a big race: Chocolate milk
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Yong Kim

Our male NRCer of the Month lives life to the extreme!  Whether it’s stretching his limits on the IRONMAN course or wolfing down a plate of Nolen’s Place mega-nachos for a local cause, Yong Kim is so much more than a “fastie”.  Equal parts athlete and academic (with a little bit of jokester thrown in for good measure), Yong works hard and plays hard.  You can find him running ultra lengths at lightning speeds over trail and road, and helping others as one of the most supportive and encouraging coaches in our crew.  For all of these reasons and more, we’re excited to share his story!

Yong was born in Taegu, South Korea and immigrated to the U.S. when he was two years old.  He was involved in competitive sports from a young age, but running was never a focus.  It was boring compared to the strategies and skills of his other sports.

Then in high school, his soccer coach required the team to run cross-country as their off-season training regimen.  Not surprisingly, he had some success and it sparked his interest for running.  Now, Yong is not only a runner, he switches up his time between trails, ultras, cycling and swimming.  He has completed many triathlons and proved his mettle (pun intended) gaining the title of IRONMAN in Chattanooga in September 2015.

His wife, Joo, and daughter, Hailey, also run.  Joo completed her first 50k at the 2015 Stump Jump (mud and all) and their family formed a 3-man team for the Hoggin ‘n’ Joggin relay benefitting the Nolensville Food Pantry.  Yong’s adventurous nature must run in the family, because they were one of the few H ‘n’ J teams willing to participate in the nacho speed-eating contest to knock out hunger, and they won!

I asked him his secret to finding time to be with family, train, and work plus still find time for fun.  He shrugged, “No secret, it’s the only way to do it… with fun.  It’s been a blessing to have Joo and Hailey more involved with my running,” said Yong.  “Hopefully it encourages the fitness in all of us and it makes the journeys we share more memorable.”

When life allowed little time for running, finding NRC made a big impact on Yong.  There was not much time for running in his late 20’s and early 30’s.  He was so busy with family, home, and work that he was making very little time for himself.  The few races he did were on a dare and he simply survived, no glory.

It was after they settled in Nolensville that he saw a few guys out running (he thinks it was NRC original, John Pryor, and Steven “Speedy” Fleming).  It got him thinking about his health and fitness and the need to make them a priority again.  Before long, he discovered NRC.

Since his return to running he has attained some awe-inspiring goals.  One that stands out from the rest is his 2010 Music City Triathlon that brought 100° temperature and many firsts.  It was his first near death swimming experience, his first experience getting passed by a, shall we say well-aged, cyclist wearing tri briefs (it was 100 degrees!), and his inaugural upchuck on lower broad without the intrusion of alcohol!  I’d say that was pretty memorable race!

2015 was the year of the IRONMAN for Yong.  He had planned to train for 9 months, but circumstances allowed him to manage only 6 with 4 truly effective.  From that experience, Yong learned the importance of discipline. “When it comes to the IRONMAN distance nothing comes easy,” he explained.  “I’ve managed to compete in most events just off my fitness; however there’s no faking a full IRONMAN.  The need for training, nutrition, and executing the plan are all amplified.”

Facing a 2.4-mile swim in the Tennessee River, a 116 mile bike course with two loops through the scenic farmland and mountain views of North Georgia and a 26.2-mile run around beautiful, but hilly Chattanooga, I wondered if Yong ever had doubts he could finish within the time to earn the IRONMAN title.

He answered honestly, “I think it’s human to have doubt when one is willing to tackle a monumental challenge for the first time.  Mistakes are inevitable and breakdowns are expected.  Though we may harp on errors or bad luck, the competitor is determined by what he/she does next.  I take those overwhelming tasks and simplify, do tasks within my means, and keep moving forward.”

A natural encourager, Yong is always sharing his knowledge and supporting other NRCers to achieve their goals.  He noted there are primarily three things that cause injury: trauma, overuse or deficient areas; so he created the Nolensville INNaE Project, a boot camp style, weekly workout, designed to impact the latter two of those factors.  Yong got the name from a Korean term that refers to a person’s inner strength, inner tolerance, endurance and fight, which fits this hard-core group perfectly!

Having run with NRC since its early days, Yong feels amazed to have witnessed the growth of the local running community.  He remembers the small group runs and one-table, post-run gatherings of a few years ago, but is not surprised that there are so many NRCers now, it’s hard to keep up with all the names.

“It’s a blessing to be immersed in such an inspiring club,” said Yong,  “The people, the stories, the achievements, the failures, the massive support, and all the joy and laughter… it only keeps me coming back.”

Yong enjoys running, because it’s simple.  He has a deep appreciation for what he sees as the most natural, “no equipment necessary” sport and how it is competition in its simplest, yet finest form.  Likewise, he is “simply” inspirational!  Whether we are learning from him, chasing his award-winning legs (NRC Best Legs 2015), or saying “Cheers” to him after a run, Yong makes NRC better and for that we are extremely thankful!

ROTM SPEED ROUND
Favorite board game:  Monopoly, dibs on the Top Hat
Top race on your bucket list:  Pike’s Peak, one of the original marathons in the US and it hits 14000 ft., literally breathtaking
Favorite thing to eat after a big race: Vietnamese soup

Katherine Cain      

Whenever our female runner of the month is out with NRC, the streets of Nolensville get a little lighter under our feet and the hills seem less daunting.  Known to get a little bit rowdy, Katherine Cain’s unending store of energy and boisterous sense of humor have not only taken her far towards her running goals, but have lifted those around her to do more.

Born and raised in Philly, home to Rocky Balboa’s first famous run up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Katherine traded cheesesteak for chocolate, attending college in Hershey, PA and obtained her teaching degree before moving to Nashville.

She met her future husband, Jeff, in the college worship band (he was a drummer and she was a singer).  It took 2 years of friendship before they went out, but man, when Jeff did plan a date it was epic.  Case in point, one night he picked her up, took her to the chapel on campus and had set up a mini concert just for her consisting of songs he’d written all about their relationship.  Talk about romantic!

Her love connection (fiancé at that point) was making lots of industry connections in Music City and so she made her way south and started looking for a job.  After a month of home décor overload at Bed, Bath and Beyond, she found a posting at Ravenwood High School and within 24 hours she had an interview lined up and was offered a job that same afternoon!

Katherine was a volleyball, basketball, and track athlete in high school and played volleyball in college, so she was excited to coach at Ravenwood and took the chance to run with the girls a lot.  When she had her first daughter she couldn’t coach anymore, but says she “needed something to put [her] competitive edge at ease”.

So, she took up running and challenged herself to run her first Half Marathon (Country Music Half in 2012).  Unfortunately, her training partner ended up getting hurt and Katherine had to run the whole thing by herself.   It was such a “fun” experience that she vowed she would never run that race again.

Well, a lot has happened since then.  Check out the finisher photos from the Country Music Half 2015 and you’ll catch her crossing the line, smiling and LOVING it!

Why the transformation?  Could it have something to do with NRC?  Maybe!  Her introduction to the crew came in June of 2013.  Looking to get back in shape after having her second daughter, she reached out to a student’s mom who she knew was a runner, the ever-encouraging Wendy Mucci.

She took a leap and posted on Facebook that she wanted to run.  Within minutes, Wendy posted back that her and Kelly Rasbury were running in a half an hour and she should come.  Katherine wasn’t expecting such a quick response, but thought “what better time than now.”  During the run, she mentioned she was a morning person and learned of a fellow early riser, NRCer Julie Sparrow.  They connected and started running together three mornings a week throughout the summer.

While “chasing” Julie one morning, Katherine learned about the Saturday group runs with NRC.  Her first Saturday run was with Julie, Angela Compton, Amy Lynch and others.  After the run, they chatted over breakfast at Mama’s Java and she was hooked with NRC.

After that, she started coming out on Wednesday nights and running with the 11 minute pace group and now has an early morning crew that speeds things up a bit.

Favorite memories with NRC?  She has a TON!  There’s Ragnar 2013 (Couples Therapy) & 2014 (NRC Sole Crushers) and finally getting a sub-2 at Carmel in 2015, but her FAVORITE OF ALL so far is training with Vicki Victory for the 2014 Rocket City Marathon.

If you’re one of those people who told yourself you’d NEVER do a full marathon, harken your ear.  Katherine was just like you, but someone must have spiked the water with Kool-Aid one Wednesday night because she and Vicki somehow agreed to stick together for 26.2!

For race day, NRCers David Victory and JoAnne King split the marathon in half and paced them, which made it an awesome experience that she will always remember.

Katherine and Vicki raced in the last 0.2 miles and crossed the finish line with a time of 4:26, overwhelmed, with no words to describe her feelings.  The months of hard work, hours of memories, challenges of training, and bonds she had solidified were now at an end.  She didn’t cry until about 30 minutes later when Scott Alexander, NRC President came up and hugged her and said how proud he was of her (there may have been a tear or two in his eyes, too).

Many of these NRC friendships have been forged in the wee hours of the morning due to Katherine’s demanding schedule, which is also a testament to her incredible self-motivation and early AM intestinal fortitude.

What gets her out of bed in the morning at o’dark thirty?  Accountability of friends!! She works long hours and she knows if she waits to run at night, it won’t get done.  However, having a pack of “AMAZING” people waiting for her makes it a whole lot easier to get up.  That and the occasional wildlife sightings which usually result in somebody jumping into another person screaming!

“They are my accountability, my confidants, my “sole” sisters, and forever friends,” Katherine admits.  “I don’t take any morning for granted with them and they know that I love each of them dearly.”

She’s currently training for the Savannah Marathon on November 7^th with Vicki Victory, Sareya Kidd (who is running Chicago), Adam Malone (who she hopes will run the full), and others who tack on miles when they can (they LOVE to have newcomers)!

When she’s not running, she’s being supermom to her equally beaming beauties, Lydia (her 5 yr old 1K runner) and Audrey (her 2 yr old 1K runner in training).  Plus, she gets to live out her passion for making a difference and share her love for fun in her new role as Assistant Principal at Christ Presbyterian Academy which keeps her plenty busy.

If you haven’t had the chance to share steps with Katherine Cain, take my word for it:  she brings the fun to the run no matter the mileage, the temp or the time of day!  We’re proud to have her as part of NRC!

ROTM SPEED ROUND

Favorite mid-race fuel:  Gatorade fruit punch chews (under 15 miles)/Orange AccuGel & pretzel crisps (over 15 miles)

iTunes or NoTunes:  I don’t run with music – I LOVE to chat when running.  As a matter of fact, if we are going too fast, you will often hear people saying, “Shut up Katherine, we need to slow down.”

Hidden talent: I can do 3 sound effects with my mouth simultaneously.

Scenic miles:  This past summer I had the honor to take students abroad and I made a point to run in EVERY city we visited.  My favorite was a 4 mile morning run in France followed by a bus trip and 4 mile night run in Italy!
_______________________________

Jimmy Stitt

One of the first times I had the pleasure of running with our male Runner of the Month was at Carmel 2015.  I hadn’t really met him before and it was only for a mile or so, but in that short amount of time I pretty much laughed non-stop and felt an instant like for the guy.

Jimmy Stitt, also lovingly known as the Human Highlighter, is not afraid of neon yellow technical clothing, cracking a few jokes on a run, or taking on new challenges.  Add to that, the fact that he is a fun loving, family man who gives back to his community and you can see why NRC feels blessed to have him in our crew.

Jimmy was born in Danville, IL but moved to Tennessee at age 11, so if you hear a tinge of a southern accent that’s why.  He met his wife, Jamie, in graduate school at Illinois State University when they both worked for the Recreation Department.  They started hanging out together at graduate assistant gatherings, hit it off and the whirlwind romance began.

More like “two peas in a pod” than opposites attract, Jimmy and Jamie both love sports and come from very similar family and faith backgrounds.  The two went to church together their first week dating and it must have been a blessed union, because he stills says he loves her more everyday.  Aww!  They married in 2004 and have two beautiful children Jayden (8) and Jaycie (6).

Jamie was a big motivator when it came to Jimmy lacing up his running shoes.  A runner herself, she talked him into the Illinois Half Marathon in May 2010.  This being pre-NRC and him just starting out, Jimmy trained by himself all but a few runs.  Not knowing what to do, he downloaded a Hal Higdon plan and just tried to be consistent three days a week.  His race goal was not to walk, which he accomplished while running a 2:05:56!

Still, in that experience he learned a big lesson on the importance of the 12-mile training run.  His longest run had only been 10 miles and the last 3.1 miles were awful!  His legs felt like concrete bricks.  Now, you’re probably expecting me to say but he “got the bug” and signed up for another, but you’d be wrong.  He quit running because it was golf season!

A few years later, Jamie coerced him to do the 2013 Scenic City Chattanooga race.  At the time, she ran an 11:30 pace and he was a 9:00.  The deal was he’d run at her pace and hang with her.  Slowing down was easy and he really enjoyed the sights at the race.  “But now,” he laughs,  “I can’t speed back up!  She’s faster than me!”

He’s been running ever since.  In April 2013, they moved their family to Nolensville to save Jamie time in her downtown commute.  They heard about NRC while attending Nolensville First United Methodist Church with the Mucci, Alexander, Eller, and Pryor families.  First, Jamie started running on Wednesday nights and Jimmy would run mornings with an NRC crew.  Then, somewhere along the way, she took mornings and he got Wednesday nights, but they’re regulars just the same.

Now, the male to female ratio in NRC means that often he runs with mostly females.  I asked him what he’s learned from his conversations over the miles with the women of NRC and he had this to say:

“Wow!  I owe a lot to Julie Sparrow, Katherine Cain, Gina Loyd, and the “Carmel on Tour Group” (Queen Kelli Alexander, Wendy Mucci, Rachel Eller, Tara Underwood, and Elizabeth Jones Pfeiffer).  Julie can run from now to eternity and make it look effortless.  She pushed me many mornings and taught me to run for the friendships.  Katherine says one pace and runs 30 seconds faster, so I always know I will be challenged, and entertained, when running with her.  Gina is very philosophical and methodical about running and I have learned so much about life in general while running with her.  Then there is the “Carmel on Tour” group – marathon training at its best!  Though they barely get a chance to talk when Kenneth Moore is around, I could lose track of the miles listening to their world travels.  I loved every minute… well, maybe a few minutes sucked at the Carmel Marathon, but all in all, I truly love my time with them!”

As a result of his dedicated training, Jimmy has clocked some impressive PRs including a 26:17 5K at Tom King 2015, a 2:04:53 at Illinois Half 2015, and a 4:52:34 at Rocket City Marathon 2014.  Still, his favorite race is the Scenic City Half he ran with Jamie.  The hilly Chattanooga course was such a bonding experience as a couple and showed him how precious, time spent doing things you love, can be.

He’s currently training for the Middle Half in October and will then train for his “LAST” full marathon, the Little Rock 2016; then he will focus Fall 2016 on going sub 2:00 for a half.  (Help wanted!)

In his spare time, Jimmy is big into youth sports and assistant coaches for the Nolensville “C” Panthers.  He also paints the field on Friday nights for home games, something he did back in college and enjoys now, as a fun way to give back to the league.

“It’s a blast,” he says.  “It is amazing to see a light bulb go off and the totally different understanding of the game these 7 and 8 year olds have when they get their role and how they can contribute.”

For all these reasons and more, we’re glad that Jimmy found his way to Nolensville and NRC!  Make sure you tell him congrats!

ROTM SPEED ROUND

Favorite mid-race fuel:  Gu, Advocare Rehydrate Gel

iTunes or NoTunes:  Only when I run alone which is hardly ever.

Hidden talent:  I was a scratch golfer before moving to Nolensville.

Scenic miles:  Ragnar Tennessee 2014.  I ran at sunset on Friday night and also had the privilege to run at sunrise on Saturday morning; two beautiful runs for me.  It was quiet, peaceful, and I was in total awe of God’s creation and glory.

Nancy Foust

Our female NRCer’s childhood was a little bit country and little bit rock ’n’ roll!  She was born and raised in Detroit, but Nancy Foust spent her summers and many weekends outside of the city in a little town called Dexter, as one of nine children living in a cottage on a lake.

After school, she married and the happy couple welcomed their first child.  True to her feisty and fearless nature, she agreed with her husband to spontaneously put their house on the market with no prospects.  It sold in one day!  It was 1974, and the three headed out on the road on a new adventure.  While it’s not quite a Nolensville broken spoke story, its close.  They settled in Nashville, because it was where they got tired of being in the car!

Nancy and her husband Gary (now deceased) were blessed with five wonderful children:  Dana, Lindsay (died in infancy), Matthew, Travis and Wesley.  She’s not just a super Mom, she has three amazing granddaughters aged 17, 16, & 15 too!

Wherever Nancy is, you’ll find laughter.  I asked her if the trait runs in the family and she admitted, it’s hereditary.  All, but Wesley, the serious one, seem to have inherited it.  “He is a real grump, that Wesley,” she jokes.  “You should ask him about his cranky pants.”

Nancy’s not just funny, she also happens to be one of the most compassionate people you’ll ever meet.  She has used this gift as an RN in Labor and Delivery at St. Thomas Midtown, formerly Baptist Hospital.  “I have been so blessed to be allowed to share with families their great joy in the birth of their child and help support those experiencing the greatest loss they will ever know,” says Nancy.  Having dedicated 28 years, she plans to retire this September.

Running is relatively new to Nancy.  When her son Matt, an NRCer, told her that they were starting a C25K program, she decided to try it.  She finished the 2013 program with the 1:1 interval group, The Oneders, but it was a challenge.  “I hated every minute of my first 5k, because I couldn’t get my breathing right,” she says.

If it wasn’t for the people, she may have given up!  Thankfully, her new friendships motivated her to keep coming out after C25k to join the NRC walkers.  When the next C25k came around, she trained in the 1:1 group again and has steadily improved ever since.  Nancy says she isn’t one of those “born to run” people, but because of the friends she’s made, she’ll keep running!  Plus, she likes to challenge herself and she acknowledges that running for her is not easy.  She draws on that part of her to power through and notes, “I refuse to let something beat me!”

In her short time running, she has wowed us with her accomplishments, like the first time she placed in a race at the 2014 Change for a Chance.  Since then, she’s gotten dubbed by NRCers as “The Podium Queen”, but if you ask her just finishing a race makes her proud and happy.  “Placing in a race just makes me laugh at myself in disbelief,” says Nancy.  “The good thing is that when you’re my age there aren’t many participants!”  Even more of a reason why she is so deserving!

She survived her first 15k earlier this year at the 2015 Hot Chocolate 15k and another momentous occasion for her was actually running the Race for the Cure which is near and dear to her heart, especially since her daughter is now a 19 year breast cancer survivor!  She had walked it many times, but actually running it was very special.

She recently ran her first trail run at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit Monk’s 5k in Conyers, GA with her daughter.  She laughs and says she thinks she’s now ready to run the Savage Gulf/Stone Door Trail Marathon with NRCer Yong Kim next year!  Hey, I wouldn’t put it past her.

What’s next?  Nancy is doing four of the five NRC Grand Prix races and she has signed up for the Middle Half.  She is going to train and see if that is a doable race for her.  Still, she is optimistic and has signed up for the half marathon in Savannah, GA in November to run with her daughter and son-in-law, but she assured me that she WILL NEVER do a full marathon!

Whether its mentoring C25k or befriending newbies to NRC, she has been such a huge inspiration, so I asked Nancy, who inspires her?  She replied, “I am in awe of so many NRC members, from the walkers to those who love running and accomplish so much.  I love hearing about their races, looking at the pictures and the joy on their faces as they run.  Outside of NRC, my biggest inspiration comes from my son Travis and my daughter Dana.  They both battled and beat cancer.  Their courage and strength makes me so proud of them.  Their will to live is so strong.  They are my heroes!!!”

To Nancy, NRC means more than good exercise, new friends, and being accepted for who she is – it’s also being part of a group so caring and giving of themselves, their time and their money that it amazes her.  It’s because of Nancy, and members like her, that NRC continues to grow and make a difference in the lives of others.  Give her a high five or better yet, join her for a mile and a laugh to share your congrats!

ROTM SPEED ROUND:
Runner of the Month quick-fire question section

Hobbies: Reading and swimming
Furbabies:  Gabbi, a 2 yr old dog adopted from a shelter a few weeks ago & Ophelia, a Great Dane (pictured right)
Dream splurge:  A new car
Brand of current kicks:  Brooks
Favorite “beat-the-heat” treat:  Mint Chocolate Chip ice cream!

Tandy Blaylock

Our female NRC Runner of the Month has been with the crew longer than most, but while she’s been building her miles and speed, she’s also somehow managed to run under the radar!  So, without further ado, we’re psyched to feature a determined self-competitor and quiet encourager, Tandy Blaylock!

Tandy heard about NRC from her neighbor, Shawn Berkau, and started running with the group in January 2011.  At the time, a typical group on a Wednesday night or Saturday morning would be about 5 to 10 people, so she said, “In the early days they always had to circle back for me!”

At one point in our training cycles, I had the personal honor of running fairly regularly with Tandy and a few other amazing NRC women as we pushed ourselves, and each other, closer to our ambitious pace goals.  I will always remember those runs; the challenge of the training eased by the effortlessness of the conversation.  Even though our goals have changed, I know I can still count on Tandy and those ladies for support when needed.

Running and Tandy go way back.  A St. Louis native, having lived in 6 states, 13 cities, and 24 homes/apartments, she’s blazed a path along her way, but technically, she began the sport of running at age 14.  As a freshman on the cross-country and track teams in high school she found her legs.  She continued running as an adult sticking to 5ks and 10ks, but she started upping her distance goals when she began running with NRC.

As a child, Tandy was always on the move.  She enjoyed gymnastics, softball and water skiing; plus she has 3 older brothers who would take her skiing, skate boarding, and riding on their motorcycles.

It was no mistake that she met another mover and shaker in James Blaylock!  Her trainer at the Knoxville restaurant, Gradys Goodtimes, James who is over 6’ tall found his match in this 5’ 1” go-getter.  There is nothing this duo can’t tackle together be it long-distance moves and running injuries, or the many happy triumphs they’ve had along the way!  The happy couple just celebrated their 20^th anniversary on April 8^th and they will be going to Vegas this summer to celebrate!

James also happens to be an incredible athlete and they have two gifted daughters who have clearly inherited their parents’ athletic genes.  I asked Tandy to help me remember a few of their accomplishments:  James completed the IronMan 2009 Coeur d’Alene, Idaho and qualified 4 times for the Amateur World Championships in the sport of Duathlon. Taylor (16) swims 6 days a week including 5am practices 2 mornings a week – year round and has run several 5ks and enjoyed a 10k.   Jamie (14) is the reigning state record holder for the ½ marathon as 12 year old and her 13 year old PR is 1:36:36, all of this as she somehow manages to run cross country and track, plus swim year round.  This just goes to show how dedicated this family is to meeting their personal goals… I mean, seriously!!! 🙂

As a family they love just about any outdoor activity – hiking, fishing, camping and just throwing the Frisbee or football.  They enjoy white water rafting, snorkeling and hanging out at the beach, and Tandy takes the girls to Dollywood several times a year.  They run races together when they can, but have found that as a family trails are really fun!

Tandy has several favorite races including the Middle Half, which she completed in 2012 and 2013, and her first marathon, the 2015 Carmel Full.  She loves taking on races with her extended family and regularly meets up with her brothers, nephew and parents at the Expo 5k/10k and Hot to Trot Thanksgiving 5k/10k in Knoxville.  Quick on her feet and a speedy opponent when she wants to be, Tandy has won several trophies at races, but balances her competitive streak well with her laid back approach to life and running.

Since she just completed her first racing Full Marathon, she is thinking about focusing on 5ks and 10ks once again and ramping up her speed work.  She plans to run another Full someday and try again for a sub 4-hour time.  She was crazy close to hitting her goal on her first attempt; so I can’t wait to cheer her on when she crushes that time in her next go around!

With keeping up with two ridiculously busy teens and ensuring Nolensville kids are eating healthy through her work as Sunset Schools Cafeteria Assistant Manager, it can be hard to find time to get out and run.  But, she and James are like a championship pro-wrestling tag-team, supporting each other from “the mat” and making sure each member of the family gets their workouts in during the week!

So, why does she keep coming back to NRC?  “For the people,” said Tandy.  “I love running with people and getting to know everyone.”  If you haven’t had the joy of running with Tandy, I hope this article has helped you get to know her a little more, too.  Congrats Tandy!  You are such a dedicated, long-time member of our crew and a perfect example of the spirit of NRC!

ROTM Speed Round
Runner of the Month quick-fire question section

The story behind her name: My mom, Shirley, heard it in a movie.  Her name was so common that she wanted something unique for me.

Something surprising about you that no one in NRC would guess?  I went to see The Rocky Horror Picture Show and acted out several of the characters 40+ times during my high school years.  HAHA…seriously.

Favorite mid-race fuel: Honey Stinger Gel

Do you run with music? No, never.

Hobbies (when you’re not running, of course):  Watching movies, reading, and I love going out to eat!

_____________________

Blake Bivens

Our male NRCer of the Month is worthy of a little recognition, but he won’t be the one to say so.  He’s unpretentious but quick-witted, perseveres in spite of challenges, plus he’s capable of rocking the Irish vocal styling’s at the end of Dreams by The Cranberries (so I’ve heard).  Like NRC, Blake Bivens is a perfect blend of serious and fun and for these reasons and more we’re happy to tell you his story!

Blake was born and raised in Gallatin, TN with a short move to Murfreesboro when he was 20 to finish college at MTSU.  Growing up, he played baseball in high school and also excelled in music.  Blake admits, “Believe it or not, I was in Performers Choir in high school and first year of college.”  Well, NRC thanks you because, you know, jazz hands make for amazing high fives!

Blake and his wife, Angie (also an NRCer) are high school sweethearts.  They started dating shortly after their junior year and have an incredible bond that is no doubt strengthened by their shared faith, friendship and of course, flagrant sense of humor; case in point, the hilarious one-liners this couple cracked us up with during the NRC Christmas Party Newlywed Game that will forever live in infamy!  “Angie’s an amazing woman, wife and mother and I couldn’t imagine my life without her,” offers Blake.  They have a busy summer planned this year complete with making an in-town move, welcoming their third child, and celebrating their 10-year anniversary this July!

They have two precocious boys, Lucas (6 in July) and Liam (3).  They love cheering on their Mom and Dad at races and while Blake is hoping to get the boys running some on trails after the baby arrives, right now they spend a lot of time at the ballpark with Lucas who’s playing baseball.  Locally, they enjoy bowling and church and when they can get away, they REALLY enjoy time at the beach soaking up the sun and beach life.

When asked about how he first became interested in running, he gives credit to Angie.  About 10 years ago he saw her challenge herself by running the Country Music Half Marathon and was inspired to begin training for his first half.

Then, about 5 years ago at the Franklin Classic, Blake discovered NRC.  He and Angie were actually living in Nolensville, but they hadn’t really seen a lot of runners in the area or heard of a group.  There were about 20 participants with NRC shirts on and he made a mental note.  Oddly, he noticed an article in the Nolensville Dispatch about NRC not long after, so following “the signs” he showed up the next Wednesday and has been an active part of the club ever since. 

You don’t have to know Angie and Blake very long to see that they actively seek out opportunities to help others.  A few years ago, through their desire to help the Nolensville Food Pantry, they organized an NRC Turkey Drive that generated huge support from the club.  Not only did the collection provide local, needy families with Thanksgiving turkeys, but also provided holiday hams and got Scott Alexander to don a turkey costume at the Boulevard Bolt!  This drive has become an annual tradition.

From 5ks to Ragnar to marathons, Blake has worked hard to realize many running accomplishments.  One of his most memorable is completing his first marathon at Rocket City in 2013 and crossing that finish line for the first time with all the support of NRC.  It was a natural high that he says lasted for weeks.

Blake has also suffered his share of injuries.  Just after the Rocket City marathon, he developed a kneecap tracking disorder.  As frustrating as the injury was, he is sort of thankful it happened.  He was forced to do more cross training, which has made him a better overall runner.  He also had a torn hamstring that technically, happened while running, albeit playing softball during the inaugural, injury plagued Fireballers softball season.

But, Blake rolls with the punches.  His motivation during recovery came from setting race goals, along with the desire to get healthy for his family and get back out running with NRC.  He also found comfort and motivation from other NRCers battling injuries.   There were many hours of aqua jogging in the pool at 6am that will not soon be forgotten.  He adds, “Those badasses know who they are and I’ll be forever grateful for their encouragement and free therapy.”

When asked what keeps him coming back to NRC, Blake explains, “For me NRC is a constant.  No matter how bad your day has been or how crazy your life may be at the moment NRC will always be there.  The smiling faces, the listening ears, the voices of encouragement and of course, the trademark Scott Alexander high fives.”  And we would add, members like you, Blake, who make NRC the place to run and have fun while making a difference!  We’re glad your family is a part of the NRC family!  Congrats!

ROTM Speed Round

What is a perk about your work?
I work at Omnicare, Inc. (a Long Term Care pharmacy) and get the most satisfaction out of helping people solve problems whether it’s a customer, a responsible party or a coworker.

What is your favorite mid-race fuel?  I’m really big on Trail Wind right now.  It’s pretty awesome.

Do you run with music?  No music for me.  I secretly enjoy talking to myself.

Something surprising about you that no one in NRC would guess?  I may or may not have read all the Harry Potter books.  That’s an accomplishment right?

Hobbies (when you’re not running, of course): 
I enjoy time with the family and watching sports – anything UT, Yankees and Titans.