Andrew Bentall

Runner Profile

Andrew Bentall

Age: 42

Job: Kidney Doctor

Hometown: Rochester, MN

Running mantra: Just put one foot in front of the other. Helps a lot whether struggling or going faster – we all take steps forward in our running journey

How running has changed me:

Changing me and motivation are about the same. In 2015 I could barely make it 1/4mile and my knees hurt and couldn’t run for another week- but perseverance and needing to take the kids out of the house helped me to go longer. When I married my wife, “I don’t like running or biking” was what she heard and now it is the opposite. I hope I advocate exercise to others, as often we don’t think we can do things, but perseverance/dedication pays off.

Why I joined RRC:

I met some great folk at Terraloco $5 5k when we first arrived in Rochester 2017. Dale, Greg and Rick were really friendly and so decided to 1) come to Saturday morning runs from the RAC and 2) join RRC to be part of the running community and support the great events (Saturday by Saturday) as well as races that they put on. Made some great friends along the way….and actually running can suck sometimes and having people encourage/push/cheer you on helps immensely.

Why I run:

That depends on who you ask…

Son said: So you don’t get fat
Wife said: You are less stressed

I run because I enjoy it. Running with others is great. Running to pursue a goal. Running to be healthy. Running to allow food and drink to be consumed!
When I have finished a run I am exhilarated and more motivated to “seize the day” -whatever that looks like…

When I run:

I like running early and then it is done. If I don’t run before work, I struggle to run in the evenings with 1) temperature 2) family time as usually late home from work. Always motivated to turn up for a planned time run with others – less easy to do it without that “pressure”. I actually end up doing more RRC runs in winter – so do join despite 0F temps!

Where I run:

Anywhere I am…I have really enjoyed using running as a way to see things (in less time than walking). I’ve been fortunate to travel and it was great planning a route.

The Washington DC route I did got me all the major sites in during an afternoon. Also, my wife got me into trails a bit more, and love the green and shade from the trees!

When I run, my must have:

Water bottles!! I dont think I go out without a waist belt with 2 water bottles. I just drink a lot and can carry my phone too! Still find MN temp hot and so get less muscle issues if I am well hydrated.

My running goal:

I run for fun and to remain fit and I want to still be running into my 6070s.

I have a 2021goabut I mainly to keep a challenge for myself as I need some things to aim for:

  • 1000 mile year on target
  • Sub 1hr 40 half marathondone
  • Sub 20 min 5K possible
  • Run a 26.1 mile run (not necessarily a marathon) – I am still thinking about this one!!

Do you know someone you would like to see profiled as a Rochester runner? Email the Rochester Running Club and tell us about them!

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