Chris Reed

1) Primary sport (s): Trail Ultra running

2) Team member since: 2010

3) City/state of residence: Allentown, Pennsylvania

4) Occupation: High School Teacher


5) Goals for 2010: Compete competitively in the following events: Bull Run 50 Miler, Massanutten 100, Hardrock 100, Cheat Mountain Moonshine Madness 50 Miler, Grindstone 100, MMTR 50 Miler, Hellgate 100k

6) Notable achievements/memories/PR’s in your sport: One of my best memories in trail running would have to be on Grindstone Mountain during both the 2008 & 2009 editions of Grindstone 100 Miler. This is an out-n-back course and at about 35 miles into the race, you climb Grindstone Mountain. The climb is long and goes on forever. But, on the way back, you get to descend the mountain. Both years I really started to feel a lot better on my descent – my body came alive with the rising sun as I tore down the mountain on the beautiful single-track trail.

In terms of achievements, I am probably most proud of my racing that occurred during the fall of 2009. I ran CMMM 50, Grindstone 100, MMTR 50, and Hellgate 100k in the span of 3.5 months and performed well in all. I hope to be able to continue building on this experience in 2010.

7) Favorite inov-8 gear: Roclite 318 GTX

8) List one thing others may not know about you: I am a metal-head at heart.

9) Favorite energy drink/food: Nuun, Clif Gels, Turkey & Cheese Wraps, Sliced Pears, Sri Lankan Food (recovery)

10) Your favorite race and why? MMTR – This is the race that got me hooked on ultrarunning four years ago. The entire race weekend is fun and it’s a good race for spectators. I enjoy the varied terrain and the last 10 miles of the course is just awesome – lots of downed fall leaves on rolling mountain trails.

11) Advice to other athletes: Make certain to get enjoyment out of every event in which you participate. It is easy to get consumed with competitive goals, whether they be finishing time or finishing position. Also, do not underestimate the effect that good diet, sleep, and positive self-talk can have on your performance. Eat whole foods, get as much sleep as possible, and don’t beat yourself up too much if things aren’t going as planned – just re-adjust and move on.