Bruce MacKay on Running

Why did you start running?

I started to run with friends as a social activity.  It was fun and really casual.  We would run 5-6 km a couple of times a week and often ended up in a pub afterwards for beer and wings.  At that point I don’t think the running was a particularly healthy activity since I’m sure we consumed more calories than we burnt.  However then someone suggested (probably after a beer) that we run a marathon.  That definitely increased the training and decreased the beer consumption.  I have since run a couple of marathons and many 5 and 10 km races.  Running still remains a social activity for me.  It gives me a chance to connect with friends and my wife. 

What do you find most difficult?

Just getting out the door!  Once I’m out the door everything just falls into place.  Often I will hesitate thinking I’m too tired or the weather looks bad but once I’m out there invariable it feels good and I’m glad I did it. 

What have you found inspiring?

My wife.  She is much more disciplined than I am.

Favorite post-run food?

It’s not beer and wings anymore.  Now I like the morning runs on the weekend followed by a nice slow breakfast

Favorite running location?

We are lucky here in Victoria with many great running locations.  Of course I like running along Dallas road and looking across at the Olympic Mountains.  But I also like running through quiet neighborhoods with nice old houses. My wife and I like to run when we are in a different city. It is a great way to see a new location while on holidays (usually followed by beer and wings).

What is your biggest running achievement?

Running my first marathon.  It took dedication and effort and definitely took my running to another level. It was worth doing and I encourage anyone interested to try it.

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