This is the twentieth edition of The Duluth Runner Interview Series, where I get in touch with (mainly) local runners and athletes to share a bit of their story while inspiring others to pursue an active lifestyle.

Intro

I met today’s guest just last weekend while running the Wild Duluth 50k. We shared some fun miles together out on the course and I had a blast getting to know a little about him.

His passion for life is contagious and apparent – shining through in our relatively brief encounter on the Superior Hiking Trail. He resides over in Sioux Falls, South Dakota and I wish he lived closer to Duluth so we could run together more often…today’s guest is Brandon Boe!

Interview

Why is running important to you?

Although many consider running to be a solitary practice, I value running for the shared experience. Running is a fantastic way to connect with other like-minded individuals – whether it be a close friend or random stranger.

There’s something innate about running that simply brings people together. Whether you’re fast or slow, every runner is capable of connecting to another runner through their shared experience.

What are the top two or three things that you do to prevent injury? Have you been susceptible to certain injuries in the past?

I’ve been incredibly fortunate throughout my life to avoid injury – big or small – while participating in many different sports. Some of this has been due to preventative precautions, but I would imagine a great majority is sheer happenstance.

As someone who enjoys running, I must defer to the cliché “YOU NEED TO STRETCH” line, first & foremost. Secondly, quality nutrition. My final piece of advice may be a dirty thought in the running community: strength training. I lift weights every day & I truly believe it’s a key ingredient to my overall wellness.

What keeps you motivated when you don’t feel like heading out the door for a workout?

I’m frequently told, “Brandon, I wish I had your motivation!” Here’s the thing: motivation is fleeting – it’s flimsy – it doesn’t hold up day-to-day or even moment-to-moment.

I believe in passion.

The best piece of equipment I have in my toolbox is being passionate about the important things in my life. I also firmly believe that you need to view difficult moments as opportunities – it’s a chance to discover something special about yourself.

Who is in your running support group (training partners, people to bounce ideas off of, etc.)?

I have a few close friends that are much more talented & experienced than I am, so I feel lucky that I can speak with them directly about their thoughts or ideas about running. You should interview them next!

When/what is your next race?

Today! The Glacier Hills Ultra – located at Newton Hills State Park outside of Canton, SD. I have big friends (literally) with big ideas, so I’m running a 50k on back-to-back weekends with one of my best friends.

Do you prefer roads or trails and why?

This will be blasphemous, so please do not burn me at the stake for my heresy: I do almost all of my running on a treadmill. There are several small reasons (e.g., easier on my joints, controlled pace, controlled environment, being around other people, etc.), but a large reason is that I find myself appreciating my time outside when I don’t run outside every day. As far as roads or trails, I find inherent value in both: roads for the speed & trails for the grind.

What is your most memorable race or running achievement?

My favorite memory from every race I’ve ever participated in has been the finish line – because I’M DONE! No, I’m kidding (sort of). I love the finish line because I’ve never ran a race without someone waiting for me there. I’m so incredibly blessed to have family & friends that love me, support me, and believe in me. There’s nothing like seeing someone you love at the finish line – being able to share the moment with them. 

Name one racing experience you would like to forget (please describe).

None of them. Seriously. I know that sounds a little intense, but even the worst moments are learning experiences with inherent value. I think people are too often consumed with their time or where they placed – sometimes we need to remember that if you finished the race…you won. If you cramp at Mile 22 of a marathon & must walk to the finish, you won. If you fall down at Mile 17 of an ultramarathon & limp to the finish, you won.

What is something non-running related you would like to share with readers?

When it’s convenient, I like to share updates from my race during the race with my Instagram fam’ – I run with my phone to take pictures & listen to music. No matter the distance, I always share the same message when I reach my final mile: Stay Positive & Love Your Life.

Closing

Many thanks to Brandon for agreeing to stop by The Duluth Runner and share some of his knowledge/experiences with everyone. I hope you enjoyed this edition of the Interview Series – stick around for more to come!