April
2019
Raymond Fryc
Q: Tell me a little bit about yourself.
A: I was born in the Utica, NY area. I come from a large Polish, German, Russian Family that is filled to the brim with awesome people. I moved to Binghamton in 2012 and after a very rough patch in my life, I found running and the TCRC. It honestly saved me and pulled me out of a slump..... Little known fact! I'm legally blind in my left eye! So I really only see out of my right eye. Luckily I have many wonderful friends that help to keep me on the road during runs (especially when I can't wear my glasses).
_
Q: How long have you been running and how did you get started?
A: I've been running for about 4 years now. I got started when a friend of mine suggested we run the Color Run 5k. I realized I had never ran a mile in my life and should probably start running a bit before the race. So I trained for about 4 months with Confluence Running. The rest is history after that! I just couldn't stop!
_
Q: Would you rather run with a group or alone?
A: I'm totally a social runner. I love to run with others and just talk. I also lead and organize group runs, so its almost in my nature to talk while I run. I even try to make conversations during races with those around me..... Not everyone always likes that in a race.
_
Q: What is your favorite distance or race?
A: I love a good 10k or 15k, but the marathon is also a very special beast. My favorite race is the Boilermaker 15k! I'm originally from Utica, so I grew up on the sidelines watching that race. It was the pride of Utica! It's so cool to feel that energy during the race. The whole course is lined with people usually 3 rows deep!
_
Q: How do you stay motivated when you don’t want to run?
A: I live for a green check-mark. I like to have a plan in place and then seeing the little check-mark that I've completed it is such a reward. But on the days I don't want to run, I look to my fellow runners. I find someone to run with or someone (like a trainer or friend) to yell at me until I run.
_
Q: What is your favorite running memory and any goals for the future?
A: I have lots of favorite running memories from completing my first Marathon to my first time not being in the Open corral for Boilermaker, but honestly my favorite running memories come from the group runs and just feeling a part of the community. My current goal is to eventually go for a sub 4 hour marathon (I was very close last time with a 4:06), but this year I'm focusing on getting back after an "injury" and building some speed.
_
Q: Who inspires you most?
A: I am most inspired by the consistent runner, the beginner that just gets out there and runs. I also always feel super motivated after volunteering at the Cayuga Trails 50 though. Watching those runners push themselves to the limit and give it their all is just amazing.
_
Q: What advice do you have for new runners?
A: My advice to new runners is be consistent. Just get out there a run. Don't be concerned with pace, what you're wearing, or who is watching. Just be consistent in your days. Also be the social media runner! Post about your accomplishments! Be the runner who starts to annoy your couch-bound friends with posts! Because you are really doing something awesome, something to be proud of!
_
Running Strong for over
50 years (1971-2021)
