For some of us, a BQ is a life long goal, for others, like Robert, its no big deal. Maybe it helps to have been a D1 swimmer? Thanks Robert for taking the time to fill this out. 

Name

Robert

Sex:

Male

Age (at the time of first BQ):

35

Height:

6”1’

Weight (at the time of first BQ):

165

At which marathon did you get your first BQ?

Portland

Tell us a little about the race.

First time I was actually thinking about qualifying, wasn’t too tough.

How long had you been running when you ran your first BQ?

8 yrs

Did you run in college or high school?

No

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

5000?

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

1000

Approximately how many races did you run in that year?

5

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

no

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

No

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

I was a D1 swimmer in college, so continued some of that when I started running. Am faster and healthier with biking and swimming mixed in, instead of more running miles.

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

Sort of- I never ran more than 50m per week, but all were well under 7:00 pace, no junk miles.

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

The engine matters. Build a strong cardiovascular base over many years, and the running becomes academic. Also, Boston really isn’t that much more special than other races- was fun all the times I did it, but not life changing.