NAME: Craig Sims, Jr.
Chapter/City: Detroit, Michigan
What motivates you to keep running and stay committed to the sport?
I really love the health aspect of running; I am never in a bad mood after a run. It’s a form of therapy. I see it as a way of making deposits into my longevity meter.
Do you have any role models or mentors in the running community?
In the running community Brothers Romero Hardy and Duane Gouldbourne are some of the examples of what being consistent over time can do for your personal health. They have great advice and are easy to talk to.
What has been your most challenging race and how did you overcome it?
My most challenging race would be the Marine Corps 50K race. The course is brutal, and I really had to dig deep and push forward on that one. Knowing that I had a whole city of brothers supporting and sending me their good vibes and energy to finish helped as well.
Name something you cannot run or do a race without?
I cannot run without a head band. I have locks and after a few miles, sweat mixes with that oil and goes right into the eyes; it’s hard to concentrate when you can’t see.
What is a typical week of training like for you?
A typical training week will consist of four good runs. I have found this to be the most beneficial. All runs at least four miles and double-digit distance. This also includes at least two days of strength training and yoga.
How did you hear about BMR?
I heard about BMR while I was on a run, and I saw Captain Romero wearing his BMR shirt. I was new to running in groups, so I asked him about it. He informed me about BMR and invited me to come out and see for myself. Been ten toes down ever since.
What do you enjoy about the brotherhood?
What I enjoy the most is the good energy of the people. They are all some of the best guys that you could meet. Friendly, approachable, and always willing to give you some of their knowledge.
What has running taught you about yourself?
Running has reminded me that even with a good plan you still must go out and execute.
How do you celebrate your PR’s and milestones?
I would be somewhere yelling about how that was wild, high fiving and on that runners’ high that comes after a completed race. Talking with others about their favorite part of the course and being glad it’s over, …. until the next one.
Funniest thing to happen to you during a race?
I fell on a trail course. It was a 10k trail race and we were talking while getting through the start. Somehow, I caught a root a mile into the course. I roll and recover and tryin to fake it off. We both started laughing’ we knew the run wasn’t the same after that. Duane asked if I were okay, I claimed to be okay and toughed it out for another half mile before telling him I would see him at the finish.