Peter: I am a Runner

Happy Thursday!  I hope the sun is shining in your part of the world.

Peter from Calgary is in today’s runner spotlight. I met Peter last week at the big Calgary Marathon medal reveal. (Peter is also one of the race ambassadors.)
Peter has a great inspirational weight-loss and keep-off story. I didn’t ask too much about it because he says it so much better in his own words on A Touch of the Runs. (Remind me to ask how he picked his blog name).

Name: Peter Mitchelmore

City:

Calgary

Profession:

Joint Venture Analyst

Runner Since: 2009


1. Why did you start running? What pushes you to keep going?

I got into running as a way of getting outside when the weather was nice rather than being stuck in the gym. I had been working out for over a year, having lost weight after a warning from my doctor about my cholesterol being double what it should be. I challenged myself to run the Calgary half-marathon and loved the experience so much I have been training for races ever since. Along with the pure love of running and all the physical and mental benefits it has brought me, I often say that I run for both the old me and the new me.

 2. What is your running/fitness routine for a typical week?

I work out seven days a week. Three days are for core/weights, and at least four days running. At the moment I’m on six days of running, so two days a week contain both.

3. What does running mean to you?

 I cannot imagine my life without running. It has brought me a sense of freedom, clarity and piece of mind. I am much closer to the person I aspire to be because of running.

4. When did you have your first “a ha” running moment? Tell us about it.

At my first race, approaching the start area. The scale of it compared to Sunday runs along back roads made me think, “wow, I’m going to be part of this?!” The positivity floating in the air gave me such a lift. Still now, I say there’s nothing like race day.

5. What kind of runner are you? Competitive? Recreational? Goal chaser?

 An enthusiastic amateur. I set myself ambitious but realistic goals for a race and train accordingly. It’s all the motivation I need to get outside when the weather is bad.

6. What are your thoughts on runners who are just out for a good time/not time goal oriented?
All movement is good movement, the world is replete with excuse makers. I remember what starting out was like myself, and still aim for fun along with a target time.

7. What has running taught you about yourself?

 I am capable of more than I believed was possible, not only physically, but I also have an everyday sharp mind I never thought I had.

8. Do you have any current running goals?

 Going for a 3:10 marathon on June 1 in Calgary. I’d like to keep on lowering all my PBs for as long as that’s realistic.

9. Do you know Warren Pole? I ask this because I know you’re originally from England.

I had to look him up. Aside from watching the London Marathon on TV when growing up, I never took an interest in running until I came to Canada.

10. Is there anything that I didn’t ask that you would like to share?

Most readers here are likely runners already, and not in need of extra motivation, but I hope there’s something from my back story that helps to spread the joy and beauty of running a little further.

Connect with Peter:

Blog:A Touch of the Runs

Twitter:@peterpaopao

Instagram:Instagram.com/peterpaopao

YouTube:YouTube.com/peterpaopao

Click to enjoy more Runner Profiles. Most recently, I featured Erika & Stephanie.

Have a wonderful Thursday!

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