Marci Klimek

Do you have a quote that guides, inspires, or embodies your training/racing/life?
"I know where I am going and I know the truth. I don’t have to be what you want me to be. I am free to be what I want." – Muhammad Ali

What is your favorite post-race meal?
Grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwich with lots of onion, tomato and black pepper.

What is your must-have piece of running gear?
My watch only comes off for race day. My wrist hasn’t seen sunlight for 5 years other than between the start and finish line.

Do you have a training philosophy?
If you want it enough you will find a way. If you work late then get up early. If you need to cross train but can’t get to the gym then drive to the lake or borrow the neighbor kid’s bike. If you can’t afford the airfare to the big meet, then make the drive. If you can’t find training partners, run with the local high school varsity boys or adopt a dog. There is always a way, you just might have to make it your own.

What is your favorite place to run?
I don’t seek “destination runs.” I like long runs on gravel back roads, short cuts along irrigation ditches and speed work on middle school tracks. Don’t get me wrong, Runner’s World’s “Rave Run” along Lake Tahoe or through the Appalachian Mountains always looks beautiful, but an empty road will remind you of the simple beauty in the tidy symmetry of pear orchards and in the clean smell of sage and damp dust.

Why do you run?
I run because I find an irreplaceable satisfaction in the sincere effort and total commitment that is required to develop in this sport. Running has consistently challenged my perspective with raw truths about the world and your role within it. It forces you to take responsibility for your actions and be 100% aware of your current rank compared not only to every other person that has or will live, but also to your own past and your ambitious goals. You can’t fake your dreams. You can’t fake your fitness. You can’t fake trust in your coach, your team, or your potential. All of the things that are essential to running (full commitment, genuine belief, consistent hard work and a love for raw competition) must be real, deep and fully within you.

What animal do you most resemble in your racing and why?
I would say that I most resemble a fox. I am an opportunist.

What is your favorite activity, when not running?
My favorite activity when not running is sampling the bulk bins at Winco.

Complete the sentence: If I was stranded in a hotel room with one movie and one book, they would be…
The Italian Job and My Antonia by Willa Cather.