Who is Paul Beck?
When did you first start walking/running? What motivated you to start walking/running?
Spring of 2010. I started running as a way to exercise both myself and my high energy dog. I was beginning to get too worn out going out on my road bike rides, then having to come back and take our dog out. At this time I had a friend pass on the book “Born to Run”, and after reading it I started to see running in a different way.
What do you love most about running/walking? How does it make you feel?
The beauty of the trails. Getting away from all the sounds of the city, people and the internet. I feel much more connected to the earth while running around in the woods.
Who in your life inspires you? Who do you want to dedicate this year of running to?
My wife inspires me. I find her drive & determination to be the best in her career amazing. I take what I see in her and try to put that much energy into my running. This year of running is dedicated to myself. This year I’m working on all long distance races with 2-3 ultras and 1-2 marathons planned.
Describe one of your favorite running/walking experiences that you’ve had in your life.
Everyday I can get out on the trails is always my favorite. Just running and having the feeling of freedom
What is the longest distance you have ever walked/ran in one day?
20 miles in 2012. In 2013… Finished first ultra- Hagg Lake Mud Run 50K, Eugene marathon, and 50 miler, Siskiyou Outback Trailrun.
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given? What is the best advice you’ve ever given to someone else?
Just keep going
What obstacles or challenges have you faced as you’ve tried to live a life of health and fitness?
Trying to find whole food options when traveling outside of Oregon.
What does this next year of running/walking mean to you? Why do you want to go to the moon? What will it mean to you when you have reached your goal?
I’m looking for consistency in running this year. I have had a great 2012 and I want to continue with the consistency. The challenge of hitting 1,000 miles again in 2013 will keep me out running. I thought running to the moon would be a great community of runners as well. Have that team feeling because this isn’t something you can do on your own. You need others to contribute to reaching the moon.
Tell us a little bit more about you. Who are you? Where are you from? What do you do for a living? What makes you happy? Tell us anything that you want the team to know.
I have been an athlete all my life. I grew up in North Carolina playing soccer, basketball, and roller blading. In college I started racing road bikes, and over the past 2 years I transitioned into a runner. I am a health nut and an endurance athlete. I like knowing that I do something the majority of people wouldn’t dream of doing. I live in Portland, Oregon and love the Pacific Northwest culture. I love eating and drinking my way around the city of Portland. I work in the wine industry in Willamette Valley wine country. I am the tasting room manager at Domaine Trouvere. I am married to a beautiful and supportive woman and have a high energy dog that loves being out in the woods. I turn 30 in less than 3 months and I am ok with that. I’m actually excited about it.
