Runner Spotlight - July 2023

Tom Mattson

​Meet Tom Mattson!. Tom is a Yooper, born and raised in Escanaba, MI. After graduating from Ferris State University, he lived & worked throughout West Michigan and even spent some time in San Clemente, CA.  Tom made a permanent move to Muskegon in October, 2021.  He currently works as an Estimator for ProFab here in Muskegon.  He is father to his son Lars, 25 and daughter, Linnea, 21.
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1. How long have you been running?  
I've been running for a little over 4 years.  When I started in the summer of 2019, I was going through a divorce. I weighed close to 300 lbs and I had just moved into an Air BnB, trying to figure out where I was going to next.  I decided to join the gym, something that I had put off for years.  I started walking on the treadmill.  This got to be pretty boring so I started to challenge myself everyday.  Pretty soon I was jogging and adding miles. By Fall, I was forty pounds lighter.  I ran my first 5k on my 49th birthday and took 3rd in my age group.  I was pretty much hooked after that.

2. Do you race? If so, what is your most memorable race experience?  
This year was my first Riverbank Run 10k. Being among thousands of other runners was an awesome experience.  But most memorable for me were the Shamrock Shuffle in 2022 and the Irish Jog this year in Ludington.  Both started out with temps in the teens and blizzard conditions.  It really made me question my sanity but we got through it. 

3. Ever run in a costume? If so, what?  
No costumes yet but I am open to suggestions.

4. Only running shoes for me are...   
I'm on my third pair of Brooks Glycerin 20's.  The cushion and the fit are perfect for me.  I'm also currently trying out  the Brooks Hyperion Max for tempo runs & racing.  Saucony Peregrin's for trail runs.

5. What is your worst running-related injury?  
I tore some cartilage in my right knee.  I didn't realize what was going on because the pain & swelling was gradual over a couple of weeks.  I tried running through it thinking it would eventually get better.  I let it go on too long before getting treatment.  Lesson learned.​

6. Hot or cold weather runner? 
I like it cold. The 50's is my sweet spot.  Some might find that still too hot.

​7. What is your motivation for running?  
My physical and mental health.  The physical benefits are obvious.  For me the mental side of it is an even greater benefit.  Being able to clear out your mind for a while.  The satisfaction you get from finishing a run or a race.  Reaching your goals.  It's all good stuff.

8. If I didn't run I....   
I would probably finish some projects around the house.  Then again, probably not.  I'm a terrible procrastinator.

9. I can't run without...  
My Shokz Open Run headphones.  I like to listen to music when I run.  Mostly Punk Rock and Metal to keep me fired up. 

10. What's the farthest you have run at one time?  
I've run a little over 7 miles a couple of times while training for 10k's.  Is a Half Marathon in my future?  We shall see...

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