Thanks to Jim for taking the time to fill this out!

Name: Jim H

Sex: Male

Age (at the time of first BQ): 43

Height: 5′ 10″

Weight (at the time of first BQ): 150lb

At which marathon did you get your first BQ? What was your finishing time?

Tell us a little about the race. Chicago 2013, 3:11:59. Perfect weather. Started from Corral B. Even pace. Slight negative split.

How long had you been running when you ran your first BQ? Did you run in college or high school?

Since December 2011, no previous experience in running or any other organized sport

What was your approximate lifetime mileage at the time of your first BQ?

3000 miles

How many miles did you run in the year before your first BQ?

1800

Approximately how many races did you run in that year?

3

Did you follow a canned program? If so, which one? If not, can you give us an idea of what your training philosophy was?

From the book, Hansons Marathon Method (Advanced)

Did you run with a running club or utilize a coach?

No

Did cross training play a role in your training? If so, how?

No

Did speed work play a role or specific workouts play a role in your training? If so, how?

Yes: part of the training plan was doing intervals at 5K pace

Any other thoughts you would like to share with those of working towards a BQ?

You CAN do it!