june r.o.m- Derek shelton

Congrats to our June Runner of the Month, Derek Shelton!  He is a 44 year old husband and father of 3.  He is the Clinical operations officer at Orthopaedic Associates  and was born, raised and living in Henderson, KY. 
Here is more on Derek:

What motivates you to run/walk?
The fact that at one point in my life I didn’t know if i would ever be able to walk again let alone run after a severe injury to right leg.   Although they have far surpassed my running skills.  It was important to me after my injury for my kids to witness hardship, pain and struggle and the ability to rise above all the self-pity to be active and invest in yourself and your health. 

How many races have you participated in?
50ish

What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively?
23

Favorite place to run/walk? 
Anywhere although I prefer the road just for stability purposes

Favorite local race? 
The one that is perpetually tomorrow.  I always look forward to the next opportunity to run
Favorite race distance? 
As long as they come.  Go Team Tortoise

Favorite race memory? 
Watching my two youngest children push themselves through everyone they have competed in.  

Funniest race memory?
Being followed by a gang of squirrels in downtown Henderson.

Craziest thing you saw at or during a race?
See above

Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink? 
Just need some gum.

What is your favorite brand of running shoe?
Hoka One One.  Good for the knees

How many miles do you run/walk a week?
50+

What are your future goals for running/walking?
consistent ultra participation.  

Music or no music?
No music, No run.