Joseph Barr at Med City Marathon

Runner Profile

Joseph Barr

Age: 23

Job: Backend Software Developer at IBM

Hometown: Batesville, IN

Running mantra: If you get to the finish, you never have to run again for the rest of your life.

How running has changed me:

Running has drastically improved my self-esteem. After a run, I feel
good about myself for having had the drive to get up and get out, when
I could have stayed in bed instead. And in the long term, I’m able to look
back and see just how much I’ve improved in speed and endurance – a
measurable improvement I can attribute directly to my own will.

Why I joined RRC:

I moved to Rochester from Indiana in June 2021, which meant I was
working from home, and I knew no one in town. So I sought out running
clubs in an effort to meet like-minded people near my new home.

Why I run:

I know if I don’t run I’m going to feel worse throughout the day both
mentally and physically. It makes it so much easier to focus and go
about my day without feeling restless.

When I run:

I run first thing in the morning. This slots into my routine nicely, and
allows me to enjoy the benefits of running for the entire day.

Where I run:

Almost every day I’m on the Douglas Trail. It’s within 3/4 of a mile of
home, and I’m able to just cruise along without worrying about traffic or
street crossings. I also love the tree cover, and the feeling of being
surrounded by nature. When it snows, I go in the opposite direction and
head toward Cascade Lake.

When I run, my must have:

I have two playlists: Running Far and Running Fast. Running Far is a collection of songs I just enjoy and can listen to forever, but Running Fast is all very up tempo music that I can’t help but crank up and sprint to.

My running goal:

My short-term goal is just to feel good and gradually improve. My medium-term goal is to qualify for the Boston Marathon before I turn 30. My long-term goal is just to feel good and gradually improve.

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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