GWTC Officers and Leadership

Each year GWTC elects a slate of officers and directors. Below is a list of the Board and Officers for 2019. Follow the link for each board member or officers name and find a profile with some unique insight for each. You also will find an email address and phone number. I am sure they would like to hear from you about what you expect out of GWTC in 2019.

Officers

President – Paul Guyas
Vice President – Jim Halley : gulfwindstrails@gmail.com – (239) 322-2908
Secretary – Alyssa Terry : AlyssaTerry21@gmail.com
Treasurer – Laryn Flikkema : treasurer@gulfwinds.org

Directors-at-Large

Judy Alexander – jalexander98@comcast.net (850) 321-6886
Kristin Halley – knhalley81@gmail.com (850) 499-6461
Chika Okoro – clokoro@live.com – (202) 276-4101
Tom Perkins – tomperkins51@yahoo.com – (850) 894-2019
Tsige Tadesse – tsigetadesse@gmail.com – (850) 363-7368
Herb Wills – hwills@gmail.com – (850) 264-3975
David Yon – david@radeylaw.com – (850) 425-6671

Appointed Officials

Newsletter – Fred Deckert; freddeckx@comcast.net – (850) 893-9739; (850) 728-2925
GWTC Equipment – Tec Thomas; Tathomas0851@yahoo.com; (850) 933-2725
Membership Chair – Mark Priddy; MarkPriddy@msn.com – (850) 508-1961
Gulfwinds Triathletes President – Wayne Thumm – wtcapcity@aol.com – (850) 251-3300

Past President

Zack Scharlepp, zscharps@yahoo.com – (850) 264-0810

Coordinators

School Grant Coordinator – Paula O’Neill, moneill51@comcast.net
Trail and Racing Coordinator: Jim Halley – gulfwindstrails@gmail.com – (239) 322-2908
Training Groups Coordinator – Tom Biance – tbiance@comcast.net – (561) 213-2092
Beginning Running Group Coordinator – Chika Okoro – (202) 276-4101
USATF Liaison – Jay Silvanima, jsilvanima@aol.com – (850) 264-0739

Race Director Coordinator – Mary Jean Yon Maryjeanyon@comcast.net – (850) 668-2236
Clothing and Merchandise Manager –Laura McDermott (850) 766-3889; and Sherri Wise – GWTCMerchandise@gmail.com
Social Coordinator – Vicky Droze – vickydroze@comcast.net – (850) 339-7766; and Joseph Petty – joseph.petty23@gmail.com; (850) 325-0575
Education and Lecture Series Coordinator – Chris Stanley – ctstanley800@gmail.com
Racing Team Coordinator – Tim Unger; runner1612@gmail.com – (850) 544-4563

Committees

Grand Prix/Awards Committee

Chenoweth Committee

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Brief Running History:

Inspirational Quotation:

Paul Guyas

President

The Track

As above

If you're going through hell, keep going.

All Time Favorite Race

Boston Mini 2014. It was a great result from a great training cycle. Looking at my splits in that race, I ecipsed my PR for all distances greater than 5k.

Favorite Annual Event

Of course the GWTC races, but outside of those - Jacksonville's Gate River Run

Personal Hero

I don't really get into heroes. That implies there's a victim somewhere to save and a villain somewhere doing something sinister. I'll leave that for the comic books.

Why I run

It's the easiest sport which is what makes it the hardest sport. It increases mental focus while promoting drifting and daydreaming. There's a spirit of both competition and comraderie. I suppose it's these satisfying contrasts that make the magic.

Name:

Paul Guyas

Position with GWTC:

President

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

The Track

Brief Running History:

As below

Inspirational Quotation:

If you're going through hell, keep going.

All Time Favorite Race

Boston Mini 2014. It was a great result from a great training cycle. Looking at my splits in that race, I ecipsed my PR for all distances greater than 5k.

Favorite Annual Event

Of course the GWTC races, but outside of those - Jacksonville's Gate River Run

Personal Hero

I don't really get into heroes. That implies there's a victim somewhere to save and a villain somewhere doing something sinister. I'll leave that for the comic books.

Why I run

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Inspirational Quotation:

Judy Alexander

Director at Large

South Mountain in Phoenix, AZ

“Whoever is happy will make others happy, too. He who has courage & faith will never perish in misery.” Anne Frank

All Time Favorite Race

Boston Marathon!

Favorite Annual Event

My Birthday!

Personal Hero

Randy Pausch, for his ability to see past a problem in order to find a solution and for his ever positive outlook and strong constitution.

Why I run

It’s the only sport I’m coordinated enough to do (although I’ve been known to trip over my own 2 feet on occasion) & I love it! Running is a great way to take from & give back to one’s community…it’s nice to be able to combine the things we enjoy with a sport we love to do.

Brief Running History:

I’ve been running since 1994, when a friend called & asked me to train with her for the 1995 Disney Marathon…little did I know that I’d started a lifelong “hobby” that would lead me to my wonderful husband, Brian. Sharing my running experiences with him, our children & all of the wonderful people in every running community we’ve had the privilege of belonging to has brought me immeasurable pleasure & a lifetime of stories & memories. Directing races has now brought another dimension to the running experience, and working with and for the members of the Gulf Winds Track Club and our running community in general is a privilege and a pleasure!

Name:

Judy Alexander

Position with GWTC:

Director at Large

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

South Mountain in Phoenix, AZ

Brief Running History:

Inspirational Quotation:

“Whoever is happy will make others happy, too. He who has courage & faith will never perish in misery.” Anne Frank

All Time Favorite Race

Boston Marathon!

Favorite Annual Event

My Birthday!

Personal Hero

Randy Pausch, for his ability to see past a problem in order to find a solution and for his ever positive outlook and strong constitution.

Why I run

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Inspirational Quotation:

Chika Okoro

Beginning Running Group Coordinator & Director-at-Large

Lafayette Heritage trail or Miccosukee Greenway

“It was being a runner that mattered, not how fast or how far I could run. The joy was in the act of running and in the journey, not in the destination... That's not to say that you need to be satisfied forever with where you are today. But you need to honor what you've accomplished, rather than thinking of what's left to be done." - John "the Penguin" Bingham

All Time Favorite Race

It's too hard to pick an all time favorite. My favorite races have typically ended in something yummy (pancakes, watermelon, or cookies)

Favorite Annual Event

GWTC holiday party

Personal Hero

TBD

Why I run

I run to tune into how I'm feeling and to enjoy the world around me

Brief Running History

After a couple years of trying to run a mile without walking, a friend suggested I join her at the Beginning Running class about 15 years ago. It took a couple more years to find the right shoes and figure out some knee issues, but once I did it was great! Many runs and many great friends later, I'm still at it. And now I'm running or run-walking various distances between the mile and the marathon.

Name:

Chika Okoro

Position with GWTC:

Beginning Running Group Coordinator & Director-at-Large

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Lafayette Heritage trail or Miccosukee Greenway

Brief Running History:

Inspirational Quotation:

All Time Favorite Race

It's too hard to pick an all time favorite. My favorite races have typically ended in something yummy (pancakes, watermelon, or cookies)

Favorite Annual Event

GWTC holiday party

Personal Hero

TBD

Why I run

I run to tune into how I'm feeling and to enjoy the world around me

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Inspirational Quotation:

Tom Perkins

At Large Board Member (former President)

Phipps-Knapps and Overstreet Trails

“If speed kills, I’ll never be in harm’s way” T. Perkins

“You have to forget your last marathon before you try another. Your mind can’t know what’s coming.” Frank Shorter

All Time Favorite Race

Springtime; Chicago Marathon

Favorite Annual Event

GWTC Christmas Party

Personal Hero

My father, Dr. Haven Meade Perkins (1916-2000)

Why I run

The adventure of finding new trails, running partners and bonds that will last a lifetime, and for the sheer energy derived as the sun rises during a long run with friends.

Brief Running History

In 1977, I herniated a disc in my lower back. After a painful recovery period, I decided that I needed to strengthen my back muscles by walking. It was at Godby High School track that I saw people actually running and talking, while I struggled with my walk. They encouraged me in my recovery. Eventually, I started to run every other lap. My new-found friends cheered me on. They told me about a new running club, Gulf Winds Track Club. Six months later, I joined Paul Ott and Randy Frazey at the Junior Museum 5K. I was praised by all for my effort (23:57) and was made to feel like I was adopted by a very large family. Since then, I have distances from a 100 yard dash to a 50K event.

Name:

Tom Perkins

Position with GWTC:

At Large Board Member (former President)

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Phipps-Knapps and Overstreet Trails

Brief Running History:

Inspirational Quotation:

“If speed kills, I’ll never be in harm’s way” T. Perkins

“You have to forget your last marathon before you try another. Your mind can’t know what’s coming.” Frank Shorter

All Time Favorite Race

Springtime; Chicago Marathon

Favorite Annual Event

GWTC Christmas Party

Personal Hero

My father, Dr. Haven Meade Perkins (1916-2000)

Why I run

The adventure of finding new trails, running partners and bonds that will last a lifetime, and for the sheer energy derived as the sun rises during a long run with friends.

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Inspirational Quotation:

Tsige Tadesse

Director at Large

Summer Brook/ Ox Bottom area during the week but I love Bradley’s for a long run on a weekend.

Motivation comes from working on things we care about ~ Sheryl Sandburg

All Time Favorite Race

I love and enjoy all GWTC races, but I look forward to GWTC 30k/15K. It is always around my Dad’s Anniversary and I love being out there and think about him.

Favorite Annual Event

Running Turkey Trot with my family followed by Thanksgiving Lunch

Personal Hero

My Father

Why I run

I run to stay physically fit, well I have to keep up with fit husband , I run to spend time with friends and family.

Brief Running History

I used to run a few miles intermittently to maintain my fitness but I have been running constantly since 2013. I am not a fast runner but I fell in love with long distance races. I am currently training for Boston 2019 with the help of my Husband Geb.

Name:

Tsige Tadesse

Position with GWTC:

Director at Large

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Summer Brook/ Ox Bottom area during the week but I love Bradley’s for a long run on a weekend.

Brief Running History:

Inspirational Quotation:

Motivation comes from working on things we care about ~ Sheryl Sandburg

All Time Favorite Race

I love and enjoy all GWTC races, but I look forward to GWTC 30k/15K. It is always around my Dad’s Anniversary and I love being out there and think about him.

Favorite Annual Event

Running Turkey Trot with my family followed by Thanksgiving Lunch

Personal Hero

My Father

Why I run

I run to stay physically fit, well I have to keep up with fit husband , I run to spend time with friends and family.

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Inspirational Quotation:

Herb Wills

Director At Large

I am too selfish and greedy to choose just one

Three hours slow is better than two hours fast – Pete Gavuzzi

All Time Favorite Race

The 1972 (Munich) Olympic 800m

Favorite Annual Event

Palace Saloon 5K

Personal Hero

No response

Why I run

It is what I do

Brief Running History

Competing since 1971 at the age group, high school, collegiate, post colligate, and fogey-in-local-road-race levels. Significant achievements: 2:17:54 Marathon to finish 15th in Olympic trials in 1984 and 2:17:52 for 10th place finish in 1988. Member of the FSU Sports Hall of Fame. Once held school record at 5K and 10K outdoors and 2m, 3K and 5k indoors. 1989 top American finisher at Boston Marathon.

Name:

Herb Wills

Position with GWTC:

Director At Large

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

I am too selfish and greedy to choose just one

Brief Running History:

As below

Inspirational Quotation:

Three hours slow is better than two hours fast – Pete Gavuzzi

All Time Favorite Race

The 1972 (Munich) Olympic 800m

Favorite Annual Event

Palace Saloon 5K

Personal Hero

No response

Why I run

It is what I do

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Inspirational Quotation:

David Yon

At large board member, Chenoweth Committee

Deep Creek Trail at St. Marks Wildlife Refuge

"If I grow up, I'd like to be a bus driver." Ten year old Lafeyette Rivers, from the book There Are No Children Here.

All Time Favorite Race

Boston Marathon, Big Sur Marathon and Pine Run

Favorite Annual Event

Pot Luck Bash – I love watching the kids get their awards.

Personal Hero

Joan Benoit Samuelson (incredible courage, tenacious and tough, yet able to keep it all in perspective) other: Nelson Mandela (true to himself and his beliefs)

Why I run

It is the best window I have to look through to see what’s happening inside.

Brief Running History

I started running in 1983 and was “hit and miss” till 1984 rolled around. Since then I have run pretty much nonstop until getting sidelined by my hamstring. When healthy I like to run 50-60 miles per week. I have run over 400 races at distances from the mile through 50 miles and really enjoy the variety of different distances terrains and types of races. I believe running is greatly enhanced when you can be part of a family like GWTC.

Name:

David Yon

Position with GWTC:

At large board member, Chenoweth Committee

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Deep Creek Trail at St. Marks Wildlife Refuge

Brief Running History:

As below

Inspirational Quotation:

"If I grow up, I'd like to be a bus driver." Ten year old Lafeyette Rivers, from the book There Are No Children Here.

All Time Favorite Race

Boston Marathon, Big Sur Marathon and Pine Run

Favorite Annual Event

Pot Luck Bash – I love watching the kids get their awards.

Personal Hero

Joan Benoit Samuelson (incredible courage, tenacious and tough, yet able to keep it all in perspective) other: Nelson Mandela (true to himself and his beliefs)

Why I run

It is the best window I have to look through to see what’s happening inside.

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Inspirational Quotation:

Fred Deckert

Newsletter Editor

Mohonk Mountain House trails, in the foothills of the Catskill mountains. Unfortunately they are a long way from here.

Those who ignore history are condemned to repeat it. (I probably paraphrased that.)

All Time Favorite Race

Hard to name, but the one that gave me the longest high was my second marathon, the Dutchess County Marathon, when I was able to finish well under 4 hours, after my first NYC effort was a disaster.

Favorite Annual Event

Springtime, for the party and camaraderie afterward.

Personal Hero

It used to be Ralph Nader, but……! Now it’s folks like Molly Ivins. I admire anyone who works for the good of others, often at their own peril.

Why I run

Started because I was fat, continued for those sporadic good times and the feeling that I was disciplining my body.

Brief Running History

Brief? Over almost 40 years? My history is more or less a chronicle of persistence over lack of ability.

Name:

Fred Deckert

Position with GWTC:

Newsletter Editor

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Mohonk Mountain House trails, in the foothills of the Catskill mountains. Unfortunately they are a long way from here.

Brief Running History:

Brief? Over almost 40 years? My history is more or less a chronicle of persistence over lack of ability.

Inspirational Quotation:

Those who ignore history are condemned to repeat it. (I probably paraphrased that.)

All Time Favorite Race

Hard to name, but the one that gave me the longest high was my second marathon, the Dutchess County Marathon, when I was able to finish well under 4 hours, after my first NYC effort was a disaster.

Favorite Annual Event

Springtime, for the party and camaraderie afterward.

Personal Hero

It used to be Ralph Nader, but……! Now it’s folks like Molly Ivins. I admire anyone who works for the good of others, often at their own peril.

Why I run

Started because I was fat, continued for those sporadic good times and the feeling that I was disciplining my body.

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Mark Priddy

Membership Director / School Grant Coordinator / Private Discussion Group Moderator

Hilly, 9 mile neighborhood route in Killearn including AJ Henry Park

All Time Favorite Race

The Kentucky Derby Half Marathon

Favorite Annual Event

Pine Run at Tall Timbers 20K, Palace Saloon 5K

Personal Hero

It used to be Ralph Nader, but……! Now it’s folks like Molly Ivins. I admire anyone who works for the good of others, often at their own peril.

Why I run

It gives me time to think and I feel physically and mentally rejuvenated

Brief Running History

Started “jogging” on my 30th birthday. I couldn’t make it around the block. Completed 43 Marathons and the Tallahassee Ultra 50K.
I was the only American to compete in the 2005 Marabana, the Havana (Cuba) Marathon. Since I could not drink the local water, which was ladled from 55 gallon drums, I survived by eating the oranges provided at each aid table.

Name:

Mark Priddy

Position with GWTC:

Membership Director / School Grant Coordinator / Private Discussion Group Moderator

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Hilly, 9 mile neighborhood route in Killearn including AJ Henry Park

Brief Running History:

All Time Favorite Race

The Kentucky Derby Half Marathon

Favorite Annual Event

Pine Run at Tall Timbers 20K, Palace Saloon 5K

Personal Hero

It used to be Ralph Nader, but……! Now it’s folks like Molly Ivins. I admire anyone who works for the good of others, often at their own peril.

Why I run

It gives me time to think and I feel physically and mentally rejuvenated

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Inspirational Quotation:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Wayne Thumm

President, Gulf Winds Triathletes

Clear eyes, full heart, can't lose

Betton Hills Neighborhood

All Time Favorite Race

Ironman Chattanooga

Favorite Annual Event

Turkey Trot and St. Anthony's Triathlon

Personal Hero

Craig Alexander

Why I run

Something I can do with my entire family

Brief Running History

Never ran until I was out of college and married; started as a challenge to do Springtime 10K with my wife; turned into my first sprint triathlon about a year later. I have run all stand-alone running races from 5K to half marathon. In triathlon, everything from a sprint to Full Ironman.

Name:

Wayne Thumm

Position with GWTC:

President, Gulf Winds Triathletes

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Betton Hills Neighborhood

Brief Running History:

Inspirational Quotation:

Clear eyes, full heart, can't lose

All Time Favorite Race

Ironman Chattanooga

Favorite Annual Event

Turkey Trot and St. Anthony's Triathlon

Personal Hero

Craig Alexander

Why I run

Something I can do with my entire family

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Inspirational Quotation:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Zack Scharlepp

Immediate Past President

Just Do It

I have a 6 mile loop running on Live Oak Plantation, Thomasville, Glenview, and Meridian. Good hills.

All Time Favorite Race

Ten Mile Challenge (may be my least favorite race as well)

Favorite Annual Event

Christmas Party

Personal Hero

I don't necessarily have a hero, but I look up to many of the runners in GWTC who have been grinding for 15+ years. And of course my Wife.

Why I run

To relax, unwind and stay in shape

Brief Running History

I began running in February of 2013. I was out of shape, overweight, and HATED running. Running .5 miles was hard and I was convinced I had developed asthma due to the lack of oxygen my lungs were providing to the rest of my body. My wife kept at me to keep going, and after 4-5 months of agony, I came to enjoy my runs and to look forward to getting away from everything, even if for only 3 miles. I slowly increased my mileage and ran my first Marathon in October 2014. I realized I love and hate the Marathon distance, but have come to love training for long distance events so keep doing signing up for more despite knowing how much the last 6 miles hurt.

Name:

Zack Scharlepp

Position with GWTC:

Immediate Past President

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

I have a 6 mile loop running on Live Oak Plantation, Thomasville, Glenview, and Meridian. Good hills.

Brief Running History:

Inspirational Quotation:

Just Do It

All Time Favorite Race

Ten Mile Challenge (may be my least favorite race as well)

Favorite Annual Event

Christmas Party

Personal Hero

I don't necessarily have a hero, but I look up to many of the runners in GWTC who have been grinding for 15+ years. And of course my Wife.

Why I run

To relax, unwind and stay in shape

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Inspirational Quotation:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Paula O'Neill

School Grant Coordinator

I love Nike's slogan, “Just Do It”

The ten mile Southwood route with my running partners

All Time Favorite Race

Plains Peanut Festival Run. I got my age-group award from former President Jimmy Carter in 2009.

Favorite Annual Event

Springtime Tallahassee 10K

Personal Hero

My mom and dad. I love them so much!

Why I run

I run because I can't afford not to. It's helped to reduce stress in my life, made me more healthy, and I've met so many wonderful people because I run.

Brief Running History

I started running in January of 2006 when a friend and I joined Julie's Springtime training group. In 2007 Julie led a Turkey Trot 15k training group that I attended, and that's when I met Lori, who is still one of my running partners. We decided to train for a marathon in 2008, and that's when I really began thinking of myself as a runner. We both completed our marathons and then just kept running!! My best 5K, 10K, and half marathon times were in 2010. I know I'm not the fastest runner out there, but I do love running so much. It's something that I hope to be doing the rest of my life.

Name:

Paula O'Neill

Position with GWTC:

School Grant Coordinator

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

The ten mile Southwood route with my running partners

Brief Running History:

Inspirational Quotation:

I love Nike's slogan, “Just Do It”

All Time Favorite Race

Plains Peanut Festival Run. I got my age-group award from former President Jimmy Carter in 2009.

Favorite Annual Event

Springtime Tallahassee 10K

Personal Hero

My mom and dad. I love them so much!

Why I run

I run because I can't afford not to. It's helped to reduce stress in my life, made me more healthy, and I've met so many wonderful people because I run.

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Tom Biance

Training Group Coordinator

Running through Southwood

All Time Favorite Race

Dopey 2015. Running a 5K, 10K, 1/2 Maraton and Marathon on 4 consecutive days at Disney

Favorite Annual Event

Springtime & Turkey Trot

Why I run

I run to be able to stay social with my friends while also exercising at the same time.

Brief Running History

I started running 5K's in 2011 but not running during the week. I credit the 2012 Beginning Running Class for starting me on the road to running. I started to lose weight, then shifted focus to see how fast I could get, and I now I run to be able to run with all the friends I have met.

Name:

Tom Biance

Position with GWTC:

Training Group Coordinator

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Running through Southwood

Brief Running History:

All Time Favorite Race

Dopey 2015. Running a 5K, 10K, 1/2 Maraton and Marathon on 4 consecutive days at Disney

Favorite Annual Event

Springtime & Turkey Trot

Why I run

Started because I was fat, continued for those sporadic good times and the feeling that I was disciplining my body.

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Inspirational Quotation:

Jay Silvanima

USATF Liaison

“I am losing precious days. I am degenerating into a machine for making money. I am learning nothing in this trivial world of men. I must break away and get out into the mountains to learn the news.” ~ John Muir

All Time Favorite Race

Boston Marathon 2009 were I married Nancy Stedman, and from my youth the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League cross country championship 1976 Butler, PA

Favorite Annual Event

GWTC - Pine Run Nationally - Boston Marathon

Personal Hero

My uncle John Danek who served as my second father until he died. John was an excellent naturalist and outdoors man who taught me an appreciation for nature and many outdoor skills.

Why I run

Exploration/travel, health and the pure joy of motion while on my feet

Brief Running History

Started running while in 6th grade, ran XC and track for the Burgettstown Blue Devils, ran for a brief time with the Penn State XC team, but had to quit to support my education as I was not on a scholarship. Started LDR running in 1998 and have run 38 marathons and 5 ultra marathons in 23 states.

Name:

Jay Silvanima

Position with GWTC:

USATF Liaison

Brief Running History:

Inspirational Quotation:

All Time Favorite Race

Boston Marathon 2009 were I married Nancy Stedman, and from my youth the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League cross country championship 1976 Butler, PA

Favorite Annual Event

GWTC - Pine Run Nationally - Boston Marathon

Personal Hero

My uncle John Danek who served as my second father until he died. John was an excellent naturalist and outdoors man who taught me an appreciation for nature and many outdoor skills.

Why I run

Exploration/travel, health and the pure joy of motion while on my feet

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Inspirational Quotation:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Mary Jean Yon

Race Director Coordinator

"Live every day to the fullest!"

Miccosukee Greenway & any exploratory runs while traveling

All Time Favorite Race

The ones that challenged me such as Comrades Marathon & the Antarctica Marathon

Favorite Annual Event

Run-To-Posey’s on Christmas Eve

Personal Hero

Still working on this one!

Why I run

For fitness, stress reduction, travel opportunities and food consumption. What else is there?

Brief Running History

I started running relatively late in life after other sports fizzled for me. At age 30, I learned what running could be and promptly fell for it. I’ve enjoyed the whole spectrum of races from the mile to the ultra and savored some nice PR’s along the way. I now understand how performance and priorities shift as we grow in this sport but I never want to lose the simple joy of running. To me, the sport is a gateway to new places and higher opportunities and I hope I never get enough of it!

Name:

Mary Jean Yon

Position with GWTC:

Race Director Coordinator

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Miccosukee Greenway & any exploratory runs while traveling

Brief Running History:

Inspirational Quotation:

"Live every day to the fullest!"

All Time Favorite Race

The ones that challenged me such as Comrades Marathon & the Antarctica Marathon

Favorite Annual Event

Run-To-Posey’s on Christmas Eve

Personal Hero

Still working on this one!

Why I run

For fitness, stress reduction, travel opportunities and food consumption. What else is there?

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Inspirational Quotation:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Laura McDermott

Clothing & Merchandise Coordinator

"I think I can!" - The Little Engine That Could

John Wayne Trail in Washington State

All Time Favorite Race

Rome Marathon

Favorite Annual Event

Boston Mini

Personal Hero

Fred Rogers

Why I run

Self improvement

Brief Running History

I have been running since 1998 and have been a member of GWTC since 2007 I have run 56 marathons. My goals are to qualify for Boston every year and to run an international marathon every year with my husband.

Name:

Laura McDermott

Position with GWTC:

Clothing & Merchandise Coordinator

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

John Wayne Trail in Washington State

Brief Running History:

Inspirational Quotation:

"I think I can!" - The Little Engine That Could

All Time Favorite Race

Rome Marathon

Favorite Annual Event

Boston Mini

Personal Hero

Fred Rogers

Why I run

Self improvement

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Inspirational Quotation:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Sherri Wise

Assistant Clothing & Merchandise Coordinator

Be strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience. ~ Colossians 1:11

Bradley's

All Time Favorite Race

Marine Corps Marathon

Favorite Annual Event

Women's Distance Festival

Personal Hero

All who overcome adversity and grow from it

Why I run

Because I truly love it

Brief Running History

I started running cross country in high school, but fell in love with the marathon distance about 8 years ago. I like to do 2-3 marathons a year and really enjoy running with Imitation Adults on Sundays. I toss in some races with other distances each year for fun and fellowship with GWTC.

Name:

Sherri Wise

Position with GWTC:

Assistant Clothing & Merchandise Coordinator

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Bradley's

Brief Running History:

Inspirational Quotation:

Be strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience. ~ Colossians 1:11

All Time Favorite Race

Marine Corps Marathon

Favorite Annual Event

Women's Distance Festival

Personal Hero

All who overcome adversity and grow from it

Why I run

Because I truly love it

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Inspirational Quotation:

Vicky Droze

Social Chair

Lake Overstreet

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou

All Time Favorite Race

Palace Saloon

Favorite Annual Event

Holiday Party

Personal Hero

Anyone who adopts a child with special needs

Why I run

Mental and physical health

Brief Running History

Started running after high school just to keep up with my younger sister who started running on the High School Cross Country team. Caught the bug and have been running ever since.

Name:

Vicky Droze

Position with GWTC:

Social Chair

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Lake Overstreet

Brief Running History:

Started running after high school just to keep up with my younger sister who started running on the High School Cross Country team. Caught the bug and have been running ever since.

Inspirational Quotation:

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou

All Time Favorite Race

Palace Saloon

Favorite Annual Event

Holiday Party

Personal Hero

Anyone who adopts a child with special needs

Why I run

Mental and physical health

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Inspirational Quotation:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Christopher Stanley

Education and Lecture Series Coordinator

"If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude." ~ Maya Angelou

I like running the clay roads out at Bradley's Country Store.

All Time Favorite Race

I was a mid-distance runner in high school and college, and while I appreciate most events and distances in road races, cross country, and track and field, I still love the 800 meters.

Favorite Annual Event

Although I cannot do it every year, I enjoy the Chicago Marathon. More locally, I love the Palace Saloon 5k.

Personal Hero

I have a deep appreciation for what coaches (can) do for their athletes, not only in terms of athletic growth, but also as they contribute to psychological and emotional growth. I consider myself fortunate to have had high school (the late J. Michael Kuharic) and college (Jim Knoedel) coaches who inspired and challenged their athletes.

Why I run

For many years, running was a very competitive endeavor on my part (particularly with the 800-meters). While I can still get competitive, motivation for running now includes a greater emphasis on physical, mental, and social health.

Brief Running History

I have been running a little over 25 years, which began as a sprinter (100, 200, relays) in high school. Over time, I transitioned into a mid-distance runner. Most of latter high school and college focused on the 800 meter event -- with a personal best of 1:52 -- with many 400s (including legs on the mile relay) and some 1500s mixed in, too. I began to run cross country in college (largely as a base for track season) so I accumulated some higher mileage weeks and 8ks. After college, with no half-mile events to be found and leaning on the cross country experience, I began running more 5ks and 10ks. Over time, and with new training partners and guidance, I began running half- and full-marathons as well. Most recently, I ran the Tallahassee Ultra Distance classic 50k (for the first and only time).

Name:

Christopher Stanley

Position with GWTC:

Education and Lecture Series Coordinator

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

I like running the clay roads out at Bradley's Country Store.

Brief Running History:

Inspirational Quotation:

"If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude." ~ Maya Angelou

All Time Favorite Race

I was a mid-distance runner in high school and college, and while I appreciate most events and distances in road races, cross country, and track and field, I still love the 800 meters.

Favorite Annual Event

Although I cannot do it every year, I enjoy the Chicago Marathon. More locally, I love the Palace Saloon 5k.

Personal Hero

Why I run

Name:

Position with GWTC:

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

Inspirational Quotation:

Tim Unger

Traveling Racing Teams Coordinator

New Orleans

"Seems like I’ve always been looking for some other place to get it together where with a few of my friends I could give up the race and maybe find something better but all my fine dreams well thought out schemes to gain the motherland have all eventually come down to waiting for every man when you look over your shoulder and you see the life that you’ve left behind when you think it over, do you ever wonder what it is that holds your life so close to mine"
Jackson Browne

All Time Favorite Race

Navarre (RIP), Daytona 5k, Gasparilla 15k, River Run 15k, Azalea Trail 10k, Crescent City Classic 10k, Springtime 10k, Palace 5k, Rose City 10k, Gate to Gate 4.4, S.G.I Summer Sizzler 5k, Peachtree 10k, Critter Run 5k, Bushwacker 5k, Summer Beach Run 5-Miler, Turkey Trot, Reservation Run 5k (RIP) Won’t someone PLEASE bring back THE down hill slalom race!

Favorite Annual Event

12 hours of Sebring (sports car race)

Personal Hero

Lilly, Justin, Tyler, Myrna & Lisa..Without the help, commitment, and sacrifices from my blended family I could not have reached such personal heights of running success

Why I run

Health & Fitness, Team Competitions, Stress Relief. Travel.

Brief Running History

I started my competitive running in 1976 for Bayshore High School in Bradenton, FL with USA multi distance champion Betty Springs under the watchful eye of NC State MULTIPLE NCAA champion coach Rollie Geiger. Our men’s team finished 7th, 3rd & 2nd in the Florida 3A State Cross Country Championships under Rollie’s guidance. I returned to running in 1993 and began to compete regularly at all distances.

GWTC honored me in 1999 as the Male runner of the year. I hold a GWTC record 5 straight Men's Overall Grand Prix championships from 1999-2003. Thirteen years in a row of GWTC Grand Prix top five finishes put me in the position to be honored as the 2011 GWTC Hall of Fame nominee. Along with 15k National Age Group championships @ River run in 2007 & 2009 being in GWTC's Hall of Fame is the greatest award and or accomplishment I have ever received. Team racing is my favorite venue partially because of my love for sports car racing.

I was honored to also be a part of the GWTC men’s team that won the USATF 15k National Men’s Team Championship at River Run in 2006. As GWTC’s racing team coordinator for many years I have contributed to building GWTC’s reputation as a competitive racing team by being awarded at open team events: Blue Angel Marathon, River Run, Azalea Trail, Fiesta, Summer Beach run, and an incredible Fifteen years in a row at the Gate To Gate 4.4

Name:

Tim Unger

Position with GWTC:

Traveling Racing Teams Coordinator

Favorite Running Route or Trail:

New Orleans

Brief Running History:

Inspirational Quotation:

All Time Favorite Race

Favorite Annual Event

12 hours of Sebring (sports car race)

Personal Hero

Lilly, Justin, Tyler, Myrna & Lisa..Without the help, commitment, and sacrifices from my blended family I could not have reached such personal heights of running success

Why I run

Health & Fitness, Team Competitions, Stress Relief. Travel.