Runner’s World+ Member: Fred Campagna
Fred is a Runner’s World+ member. Join him and thousands of others chasing their goals with day-by-day training plans, expert advice from editors and coaches, and unlimited digital access. We regularly feature members online and in print!
I did not start running until a bit later in life. In fact, just over 10 years ago I was the person asking “why would anyone want to run? It seems so boring!”. I was a lifelong soccer player who only signed up for a 5k at 37 years old because my wife was doing it. As it turns out, I loved it. Tens of thousands of miles later, running is a huge part of my life. Since then I’ve completed 8 marathons and countless other shorter races. Running has really helped me to live a disciplined lifestyle. Because I’m competitive, it did not take me long to realize that it’s a sport where you get out what you put into it. Running has also strengthened my bond with my sons who run competitively in college. I always look forward to the days when we can spend a few miles together.
I like having access to the latest news and analysis on training, racing, gear and professional racing.
The main reasons I run are to stay fit and fuel my competitive fire. I am always trying to break through personal boundaries that we set for ourselves. The feeling of accomplishment after achieving a goal time or place is great, and is usually followed shortly thereafter by a new goal. On certain days, the hardest part can be just getting out the door, but once I’m a few minutes into my run I am happy.
I work the early, early shift at CBS46 in Atlanta, GA. I’m up at 2:45 a.m. and work until midday. I have the pleasure of being able to run in the mid to late afternoon most days. On weekends, I will “sleep in” and try to get out on the roads before 8 a.m. Running definitely plays a role in my day-to-day planning. Sometimes, I need to find time to squeeze in a few miles on a busy day.
My first thought after coming to Atlanta in 2019 was "Man, it’s hilly!". The big hills around Atlanta have made me a stronger and faster runner. Most of my runs are around Buckhead, with a few trips into Midtown each week. I like running in Piedmont Park because there are so many 5K races there and I can think about how to best attack the course next time I race.
I go through all sorts of shoes since I’m a gear tester for several different brands. I have a running jacket that started out as bright orange and has gotten faded. We’ve been through many a cold/wet run together, and I look forward to many more.
Keep getting faster while training smart and staying healthy. Ultimately, when I start to slow down, I hope to stay competitive relative to those in my age group who are also not as fast as we used to be!
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