Profiles in fitness

0 Comments | Gazette, The (Colorado Springs), Jun 13, 2005 | by MILO BRYANT Fitness columnist

Age: 59

Height: 5 feet 8 inches

Weight: 135 pounds

Resides: Colorado Springs

Occupation: Senior Analyst for Colorado Springs Utilities

Q. How long have you been running?

A. Since 1978. I quit smoking and immediately put on 25-30 pounds.

I went to the track and the YMCA, ran a few laps and about died.

But I kept going and got up to 2-3 miles before taking it outside. That (track) is like 22 laps for a mile -- not fun.

This started as something to get off the weight, to get back in shape, but it became an addiction -- a good addiction.

Q. Do you run marathons?

A. I've run Pikes Peak three times and I've done the Ascent once, too. I'm signed up to do the Ascent again this year. I probably run about 25-30 races a year.

Q. Which is your favorite race?

A. Hood to Coast (a 197-mile relay race from the top of Mount Hood to Seaside, Ore.). I like the Sailin' Shoes (Springspree) race, too. And I like the Bolder Boulder.

Q. Have you run ultra marathons?

A. I figure you only have so many long runs in you. So I'm cutting back on the long distance so I can run well 10 years from now.

Q. How many miles do you get in during a week?

A. I've been up to 70 per week. But now I average about 35 per week.

Q. What about running has kept you at it for so long?

A. It keeps me young, I think. We turn it into a social event every day. It's kind of a way to clear our heads.

It's kind of like a recess every day.

Q. What's the best advice you can give someone who wants to get started running?

A. Start off slow and just build up. If it hurts, stop and walk.

For more information about Dougherty's favorite runs, go to www.springspree.com/shoerace.html, www.hoodtocoast.com/htc/ default.asp and bolderboulder.com.

Profiles in Fitness highlights local fitness enthusiasts. To suggest a profile subject, e-mail mbryant@gazette.com.