Thanks, Mark, for filling this out, and good luck with Boston this year!

Name: Mark D Mark to Boston
Sex: Male
Age (at the time of first BQ): 32
Height: 5’8
Weight (at time of first BQ): 160
At Which marathon did you get your first BQ? What was your finishing time? Tell us a little about the race:

Carmel Marathon in Carmel, Indiana. I ran it in 3:03:26. This was my 9th marathon, 3rd real attempt at a BQ. Started off smart and calm.  Felt the best at the end of the race than I have ever felt before at that time. I crossed the finish line with a huge fist pump as I knew I accomplished my goal of a BQ.

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

I started running when I was about 10 years old.  Ran in middle school, high school, and college on the NAIA level
What is your approximate lifetime mileage at the time of your BQ?
I really don’t have any idea.
How many miles did you run in the year before your first BQ?
Around 2100 miles
Approximately how many races did you run in that race?
A lot: 20+
Did you follow a canned program? If so which one?
Garmin intermediate program.
Did you run with a running club or utilize a coach?
No, all runs were solo.
Did cross training play a role in your training?
Slightly.  Did some weights 3 times a week
Did speed work play a role or specific workouts play a role in training?
My plan consists of 2-3 speed workouts a week.  I follow the plan closely. Speed workouts were based on time intervals, anywhere between 3-10 minute intervals with 1-2 slow pace in between.
Any other thoughts you would like to share with those who are working towards a BQ?It takes time and dedication, as well as an understanding family.  My wife has been a huge support and without her support, I would not have made it and it would not have been worth it.