Runner Spotlight - July 2024

Pam is a native of Muskegon.  She attended Muskegon Community College and Michigan State University.  She served in the Air Force and worked for a Special Operations Wing in Florida.  She obtained her master's in psychology at the University of West Florida.  After her discharge from the Air Force, she spent 6 years in Buffalo, New York as a school counselor.  She returned to Michigan thirty years ago to marry the love of her life, Brett, who shares her love of triathlons and running.  She continued her school counseling at Fruitport High School for twenty-five years and has been working at Muskegon Community College for the past ten years as an adjunct counselor.  She and Brett also work for the Muskegon YMCA, teaching Safety Around the Water (SAW) to local third graders.  She has two children and three grandchildren. 

1. How long have you been running?
I’ve been running for over 50 years with some breaks because of surgeries. 
I began track at junior high and continued in high school racing the mile and 2 mile. 
2. Do you race? If so, what is your most memorable race experience?
Yes, I race and some years more than others.  One of my favorites is the 1996 Marine Corps Marathon with Brett and my brother.  The other would be the Ironman Michigan 70.3 tri with Brett two years ago. 
3. Ever run in a costume? If so, what?
Oh yes, some St Patrick’s Day races and a midnight race in Florida.
4. Only running shoes for me are...
Over fifty years of running I’ve had plenty of different brands of shoes but currently I’m using Brooks Glycerin.  One thing for sure, as you get older your shoe size changes! 
5. What is your worst running-related injury?
Too many to mention! 
6. Hot or cold weather runner?
I’m a Spring/Fall runner! 
 7. What is your motivation for running?
My parents both died when I was young. I vowed to myself to stay healthy for my kids so that I could enjoy them growing up. Now I even get to enjoy my grandchildren. 
8. If I didn't run I....
I would probably bike more and find some other type of exercise. 
9. I can't run without...
Can’t run without music but I am forced to do it in triathlons. 
10. What's the farthest you have run at one time?
Marathon distance. 
11. What brought you to Run Muskegon and why have you stayed?
I’ve been a lone runner most of my life. For me, Run Muskegon became my social group. I enjoy the variety of people. All my “young runners” keep me motivated. I know for sure that I would not have been able to make it through the Brett “incident” without this group. They are my ROCK! 
​Thanks for spotlighting me on my 65th birthday. This is far more exciting than becoming eligible for Medicare!! 

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