Chicago Athlete: Why did you start running?
Michael Boraz: I am a principal at Lincoln Park High School, so the work can be stressful and demands you take care of yourself physically and mentally. I went for my physical a few years ago and my numbers weren’t too good. I started running in the winter of 2015 and was pretty consistent, and then my wife got me a Polar M400 watch for Father’s Day, so I haven’t missed a run since 2015. This will be my first marathon.
CA: What are you most excited about for this year’s marathon? Most nervous/anxious for?
MB: I recently started to picture myself going past mile 20, and getting a boost from people cheering, and that seems like it’ll be really an unbelievable experience.
For me as a first timer, the unpredictability and what its really going to feel like on race day is a little nerve-racking, but I’m trying to think about those positive feelings and the surge of my fans.
CA: What goals do you have?
MB: One thing that I read is to set three goals instead of one to keep you positive; I’ve been running my long runs at an 8:50 to 9 minute-mile pace, so I feel like a 3:45 that would be my fast goal, my second one would be between 4 and 4:15 if things go poorly, and my third would be just to get through without walking.
CA: What advice do you give to other marathoners?
MB: I love training with a group; I did all my training for my first year and a half by myself, and I was able to get my work done in early mornings so I know I have it in me to do it by myself, but long runs and speed work with a group is more fun. Also, tap into your community and engage in conversations about your excitements and goals, and it might inspire other people too.
