Meet a Front Runner #7 – Michael Vail

Hello Front Runners, we are pleased to have you for another entry in our meet a Front Runner series! This time we’d like to introduce you to our one our executive committee member, Michael Vail. Michael is perhaps what one might call, the brains behind Front Runners as of late. Don’t let that fool you though! Michael has the southern charm aplenty! Come meet Michael during one of our runs or social events!
So Michael, when did you start running?
I started to run seriously about 7 years ago.  I had tried to run off and on for years, but my running bad form aggravated knee and lower back problems.  I started researching running form and I got fitted for a proper pair of running shoes.  After a lot of experimentation, I was able to slowly add miles until I could complete my first 5k.

What is your proudest running accomplishment?
Completing my first trail run and finishing 3rd in my age group inspired me to keep running.  Completing my first full marathon two years later was my proudest accomplishment.

What does being a Front Runner mean to you?
I started running with the Front Runners shortly after moving to Philadelphia in 2017.  The Front Runners were very welcoming, and I enjoyed the variety of paces.  There is always someone running at my pace and someone to challenge me to run faster.

What is something you can’t live without?
Coffee is my favorite addiction.  There is nothing more comforting than a piping hot cup of coffee on a cold day.

Race Highlights
10K – 45:55 (Philly 10K 2018)
Half Marathon – 1:38:51 (Philadelphia Half Marathon 2017)
Full Marathon – 3:38:51 (Hartford Marathon 2016)

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