Running taught me valuable lessons. In cross-country competition, training counted more than intrinsic ability, and I could compensate for a lack of natural aptitude with diligence and discipline. I applied this in everything I did. –Nelson Mandela
How did you get your start in cross-country?
I got started because a football coach in 8th grade had me run 2 miles around the track so I’d stop bothering him (I had broken my thumb 2 weeks before). When I was done he looked at his watch and said they have a sport for kids like me in high school…called cross country.
Tell me about that first race?
My first race was a jr varsity race where I think I got second…having no idea what I was doing. I only remember my coach being excited and my mom and dad having a cooler of pop for our team at the finish.
What surprised you about the second race?
The expectation that I was supposed to be good. Also, I was told I couldn’t run on the varsity (I would have been probably the #2 man) because of league rules…so I quit and went out for football with my friends.
Please describe your training (progression) for the season.
The training for that early season and my first full season were intense. Our coach was old school…we ran a ton, always under the watch. Old school meant no water… you had to be mentally tough. I recall loots of hills and long intervals. Serious the hardest training of my career.
What do you consider your greatest XC performance?
Winning the old AAU National Championship against Salazar in Seattle in 1979.
And my first international CC race in Portugal. It had Brendan Foster, Carlos Lopes and others! I remember being awed. Half way through the race we turned into the wind and somehow I got pushed to the front. I didn’t want to embarrass myself, so I surged to keep the pace. When we made the turn out of the wind I had a 20-meter lead and I never looked back! First major international win.
Favorite race or venue?
University of Michigan golf course. Ron Warhurst always made it a hilly bitch, but just great memories of racing there.
Any XC memories you care to share?
My first world Cross Country team, where I met Bill Rodgers, Mike Roche and Randy Thomas…all became teammates at Greater Boston Track club. Also, when Greater Boston destroyed all teams to win the Nationals with a record low score of 25. I was 4th man that day, but 5th overall! God did we celebrate that night.
Which brings up my final question, which just came to me, How important is the team aspect of XC?
Cross Country taught me the value of team work. You’re only as strong as your weakest link. It has served me in business to this day. Also, the lasting friendships from high school, college and post collegiate are all my cross teammates. You build a bond.
