Runner Spotlight - April 2025

Chris is a class of 1977 Fruitport graduate and has been inducted into the Fruitport Hall of Fame for being on the 1974-75 wrestling team. In high school Chris also ran cross-country and track. Chris served in the United States Marine Corps from 1977-1981 and ended at rank of E5, Sergeant. Chris is married to, as he put it, his beautiful wife Lisa, who is his rock and inspiration for life. They have two sons, Brandon & Drew. Brandon served in the Army doing two tours in Iraq and Drew is currently a Major in the Marines and served one tour in Iraq. Brandon is married to Charlene and has one son, Gabriel who loves hockey. Drew is married to Kelly and is currently stationed in Okinawa Japan. Chris currently works as a facilities manager for MasterTag in Montague.

1. How long have you been running?  
I have been running for about 50 years, but it wasn’t until my son Drew started running at the age of 7, did I start to enter races.
 
2. Do you race? If so, what is your most memorable race experience? 
I’ve participated in many races over my 65 years.  I’ve raced in 3 Marathons.  The first was the Chicago marathon when I turned 40, my second was the Marine Corps marathon when I turned 50, and my third was my most memorable run, another Marine Corps marathon when I turned 60. In that marathon I was able to run with my Marine Corps son, Drew. The first 16 miles was a downpour of steady rain, followed by hot humidity for the rest of the race. I hit the Runners Wall at mile 20 and was ready to quit, but my Marine son, Drew, gave me a great motivational speech full of colorful language, and with that, got me moving again to finish the race. Even though my finish time was horrible, it was my best race, because I completed it with my son.
 
3. Ever run in a costume? If so, what? 
I never ran in a costume, but I’ve been passed in races by a cow and a Coors Light can. 😊
 
4. Only running shoes for me are...
HOKA Gaviota 5
 
5. What is your worst running-related injury? 
STFU at Sleepy Hollow State Park north of Lansing. It was a ½ trail marathon and I fell three times over tree roots and fractured three ribs but finished the race.
 
6. Hot or cold weather runner? 
Hot – I hate running in the cold, but I still do.
 
7. What is your motivation for running? 
Mental is a big part – running provides me with a healthy outlet for stress and an opportunity for self-reflection.
 
8. If I didn't run I....  I probably would not be still alive….
 
9. I can't run without... 
Ear pods – Music or a good book on digital.
 
10. What's the farthest you have run at one time? 
26.2 during the Marathons
 
11. What brought you to Run Muskegon and why have you stayed? 
​Being a club member at Pigeon Hill, I would see Pam Riley-Barbier every Wednesday and she would remind me about Run Muskegon, so I finally signed up. I’ve stayed because of the group and the people I’ve met.
Chris says running has been a transformative journey characterized by achievement and personal growth. From the initial days of racing against himself to the present goals of participating in larger events, running has shaped his character. Chris says running pushes his limits, and the lessons he learns emphasize the importance of resilience and determination. In looking ahead, running will always play a vital role in Chris’s life. “Through running, I have discovered my passion, learned valuable life lessons, and built connections that enrich my life every day.”

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