Runner Spotlight - February 2025

Jared was born and raised in Muskegon.  He attended GVSU where he met his wife, Nicole.  They have been together almost 15 years and have been married 7.5 years.  Jared is a Site Activation Manager for a global research company called IQVIA, which helps pharmaceutical companies manage different research sites across the country. When Jared is not running, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching hockey, and building random projects around the house.
 
1. How long have you been running?
15ish years.  I was pretty big into running in college, then did not run for a while, and now am really back into it since joining Run Muskegon.  2024 was my biggest year for running… so far!
 
2. Do you race? If so, what is your most memorable race experience? 
I like to race and only compete with myself.  My most memorable race experience was the North Country Half Marathon because it is where I learned I despise trail running.  Nicole and I completed our first marathon shortly after that which was also quite memorable.
 
3. Ever run in a costume? If so, what? 
Yes, on occasion.  Most recently I was dressed as the Turkey at our Turkey trot where I got to race the kids and cheer people on at the bottom of Cole’s hill.
 
4. Only running shoes for me are... 
Brooks Glycerin 20/21. 
 
5. What is your worst running-related injury?  Shin splints. 
 
6. Hot or cold weather runner? 
Cold.  I sweat a lot.
 
7. What is your motivation for running? 
Mental and physical health and running with friends.
 
8. If I didn't run I.... 
would be on the TV show “600 pound life”
 
9. I can't run without... 
a nice pair of socks
 
10. What's the farthest you have run at one time? 
26.2!  I completed my first marathon this year alongside my wife and brother
 
11. What brought you to Run Muskegon and why have you stayed? 
My wife and I have always frequented Pigeon Hill.  One Wednesday night we saw all these weird people gathering for a run, so we decided to show up the next week, which happened to be a newbie night.  I keep coming back because of the friends I have made through Run MKG.

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