December R.O.M- Paul Campbell

Congrats to the December Ultimate Fit Runner of the Month, Paul Campbell!  Here is more about Paul:
"I am a 53 year old father of 2 adult kids and grandfather. I work for Toyota and I am the current fire chief for the Newburgh Fire Department."
 
What motivates you to run?
The fun of meeting new people and seeing the same faces running. Also knowing that I am setting an example for others to get out and exercise. It gives me some “me” time and it gives me time to relieve some stress and zone out. My girlfriend Kim helps keep me going.
 
How many races have you participated in?
about 100
 
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively?
I started running at the age of 49 after some personal issues. It was mostly for fun but the competitor in me has kinda taken over.

Favorite place to run/walk?
I like going to new places to run. It makes it challenging. Evansville and Newburgh are both great places to run and explore.
 
Favorite local race?
I don’t have a clear cut favorite. I like them all. The local organizers do a great job of putting on some exciting and challenging races with the help of some of the best local businesses around.

Favorite race outside of the Tri-State?
FDIC Courage and Valor 5K in Indianapolis. It’s held every year during the Fire Departments Instructors Conference usually in April.
 
Farthest you have traveled to do a race?  
Indianapolis a few times. It might change this coming year.
 
Favorite race distance?  
I like the longer races. I seem to be able to settle into a pace easier than the 5K’s and have better split times.
 
Favorite race memory?
For me it was completing the Evansville Half Marathon the first time. I signed up not knowing what to expect or how to train and finished under the time I set.
 
Funniest race memory?
The groups of people that come out to support the runners with their crazy outfits and signs especially during the longer races.
 
Craziest thing you saw at or during a race?
T-rex running around and handing out candy to the runners.
 
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink?
Pre-race I have yogurt and and a protein bar and post race I have something light and chocolate milk usually from Panera Bread.

What is your favorite brand of running shoe?
Hoka. They are very comfortable.
 
How many miles do you run/walk a week?
Not as much as I would like. 5 maybe sometimes more in the winter but more in the summer. Work cuts into my running time a lot.
 
What are your future goals for running/walking?
I am thinking about a full marathon and doing the New Jersey Half Marathon/Marathon since I’m from there and my family is all there.
 
Favorite time of day to run?
Early morning
 
Favorite weather to run in?
Cool weather
 
Music or no music?
Music absolutely!