Interviews with the top 2003
RUNOHIO Grand Prix finishers

The 2003 RUNOHIO Grand Prix was a series of races chosen by runners and the staff of RUNOHIO to be part of this statewide Grand Prix. Criteria used in determining the final Grand Prix races were 1) Runners ranking from RUNOHIO questionnaire interfaced with 2) Race Organization; 3) Quality of the race field; 4) Geographical location of race; 5) Date of race; 6) Size of the race. RUNOHIO has also tried to have only one race on any given weekend and not pick holiday races. However, due to a few races changing their dates, the Grand Prix does now have a few dates with multiple races. If you would like to see a race added to the Grand Prix, please let RUNOHIO know which races in your area should be on the Grand Prix.

Early races in the 2004 RUNOHIO Grand Prix include:
March 13 - Columbus Grove Beer Bottle Open 4 Miler, March 13 - Cleveland St Malachi 5 Miler, March 18 - Marietta Shamrock Classic 10K, March 28 - Cincinnati Heart Mini Marathon 15K, April 11 - Wadsworth 4 Miler, April 11 - Miami University Red Brick Run 5K, April 25
- Toledo Glass City Marathon, April 25 - Rite Aid Cleveland 10K & Marathon, May 2 - Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon, May 24 - Lou Cox Memorial 5km and June 6- Columbus 10K.

The following are interviews conducted with the top
2003 RUNOHIO Grand Prix finishers.

Men Open

Jim Jurcivich


Jim Jurcivich, 27, lives in Dublin where he trains full time as a runner. Jim has been running for fourteen years and grew up in Defiance.

When and how did you start running? "I started running in high school when I joined the cross country team.
My first year, we had only 4 runners on the team. By my senior year we had about 20."

How do you train and what is your favorite workout?
"I train by doing a lot of miles. I usually run around 140 miles per week. My favorite workout is any type of Fartlek. I think they simulate a race the best."

What do you think of the RUNOHIO Grand Prix? Which races were your favorite? " I like the RUNOHIO Grand Prix, I wish I were able to take part in more events than I do. All of the races I ran were good events.
My favorite race is the Columbus Marathon. There is nothing better than being able to race on the roads you train on. It's as close as you can get to home field advantage in a race. "

Why do you run? "Simply because I enjoy it."

Any advice for runners who want to improve their running? There is no substitute for running miles. If you want to improve, the best thing is to run more.
Your body can usually handle more than you think it can.

Scott Wenger


Scott Wenger, 28, is a farmer in West Liberty and has been running for fifteen years.

When and how did you start running? " I started in junior high school with my dad. He would take me out on runs with him and I found that I really like the sport."

How do you train and what is your favorite workout? I train pretty much on my own. I try to keep around 60-70 miles a week with two speed work outs and one long run per week. I usually make one of the interval sessions a shorter distance for more leg speed and the other is a longer interval for endurance. Most of the time I do fartleks for my interval workout. My favorite workout is either 10-20 times 200 meters on the track or 30 seconds on 30 seconds off fartlek 10-20 times.

Why do you run? "I run because I like to compete. I also have goals that I have set for myself to try and set personal bests. Another reason I run is I like to be in good physical shape."

What do you think of the RUNOHIO Grand Prix? Which races were your favorites and why? I think the RUNOHIO Grand Prix is an exciting thing for many runners to compete in. It gives runners a chance to see how well they can do against runners from all over the state.
My favorite race is Minster Oktoberfest 10K. The way the community gets involved and cheers for the runners is awesome. I also like this race because it brings in some of the best runners in the state, so the competition is very good. I also have enjoyed the Columbus 10K over the years"

Any advice for runners who want to improve their running? "My advice for runners is to set realistic goals for yourself, and then get on a training program that will help you attain those goals. Stick to those goals that you set for yourself and believe in your training and yourself. Hopefully you will reach those goals."

Fred Kieser


Fred Kieser, 32, is a high school science teacher and cross country/track coach at Saint Joseph Academy, a private all-girls Catholic school on the far west side of Cleveland. Fred has been running for nineteen years.

When and how did you start running? "I began running in 7th grade when I tried out for the cross country team. I wasn't sure what it was; but someone told me it had to do with running through the woods, across rivers and such. Looking back on it I don't think they were entirely honest with me."

How do you train and what is your favorite workout? "I guess most would call me a mileage runner. I never have a set program in mind, rather I run by how I feel, meaning if I'm having a good day, I'll run hard, if I'm feeling sluggish I'll run slowly. I usually run slowly. Also, I have to run based on what my schedule and the Cleveland weather allow. My "favorite" workout doesn't exist. It would involve eating chocolate and pop-tarts while sitting near a track watching other people doing intervals. However, the core of my quality days rests on longish threshold runs and fartleks. If I'm approaching a decent fitness level, I'll run repeat 1200's or 1600's on the track, perhaps 6-8 miles worth."

What do you think of the RUNOHIO Grand Prix? Which, races were your favorite? The RunOhio Grand Prix has always been a great thing, especially for the fringe runners trying to make a name for themselves. This allows people who otherwise might be overlooked as solid competitors to get some recognition, especially the masters and grandmaster runners. I never get to run as many of these races as I'd like due to travel and time constrictions, but the Johnnycake Jog would still be my favorite because that's the course I grew up on. "

Why do you run? "At this point I'd have to say I run because I haven't figured out yet how to stop. It's a cliche, but running does provide a freedom that no other sport can give. It also allows you to share with people of various ability levels. In the end we all go through the same experiences."

Any advice for runners who want to improve their running." "If you're still improving, don't change anything. If you've reached a plateau, then make a couple of basic changes to either your quality days, your mileage, or just take a break."


Men Masters

Mark Tensing

Mark Tensing, 44, has been running for twenty-seven years. Mark lives in Cincinnati where he is co-owner of a family concrete contracting business.

When and how did you start running? "I started running my junior year in high school for the cross country team. The cross country coach challenged anybody who felt like they could run a 5:00 mile time trial. I didn't attend college but continued running shortly after graduation."

How do you train and what is your favorite workout? "
My work schedule can be inconsistent, so I do my best to keep my weekly miles somewhat consistent. I try to maintain a somewhat standard training week, mixing long runs, tempo run and track workouts. Rather than having a favorite workout, I get a sense of completion when I can get a solid week of running in."

Why do you run? "Simply, it's rewarding to be the best athlete your abilities allow you to be. Running adds a good balance to weekly routine."

What do you think of the RUNOHIO Grand Prix? Which races were your favorites and why? "I appreciate the RUNOHIO newspaper and its' efforts to organize the competition throughout the region. I appreciate all of the races because of the top competition and organization."

Any advice for runners who want to improve their running? "Be consistent, steady and realistic in setting your goals. You can adjust them as you attain short term successes."

Ron Argabright


Ron Argabright Jr, 41, has been running for six years.
Ron lives in Troy where he is a Senior Systems Programer.

When and how did you start running? "My dad Ron Argabright Sr. talked me into a race in December of
'97 when I was 35. I wasn't sure about running after that race but 6 months later my dad talked me into another race and from that point on I was hooked."
How do you train and what is your favorite workout?
"In the Winter/Spring I do a lot of hill workouts for strength. In the Summer/Fall I do sprints to work on leg turnover and speed. My favorite workout is hill repeats on trails at the Troy Brukner Nature Center."

What do you think of the RUNOHIO Grand Prix? Which races were your favorite and why? "I really enjoyed doing the RUNOHIO Grand Prix this year. Doing races around the state brought some unique running experiences and competition. My favorite races were the Pro Football Hall of Fame 5 mile and the St.
Malachi run 5 mile. The Pro Football Hall of Fame I made a whole weekend out of it by visiting the Hall and the town. St. Malachi I enjoyed the course going over and under the bridges."

Why do you run? "It's good stress relief and I like to compete."

Any advice for runners who want to improve their running? "Work on a good base of weekly mileage and incorporate strength and speed sessions into your workouts. I'm a believer at least racing twice a month will help to get you sharp."

Men Grand Masters

John Newton

John Newton, 55, lives in Curtice where he is a Jobsetter for Daimler Chysler. John has been running for twenty five years.

When and how did you start running? "I started running in 1978. My wife had been running for a few years and everyone said I should run with her because it would be safer for her. Except for three years off for traveling back and forth for my job, I've been running ever since!"

How do you train and what is your favorite workout? "I average 40-45 miles a week. My favorite workout is my six-mile tempo run."

What do you think of the RUNOHIO Grand Prix? Which races were your favorites and why? "It's a great series of races! It's too bad there isn't more recognition for the runners! There are some very good runners at these races! I have three favorites; they
are: Columbus Grove 4 miler, Columbus 10K, and Minster Oktoberfest 10K."

Why do you run? "I run because I enjoy competing in races and I also enjoy meeting all the great runners at the races."

Any advice for runners who want to improve their running? "Whatever you do keep your mileage consistent! Plus if you're going to compete, do some type of speed work at least once a week!"

Michael Barr


Michael Barr, 53, has been running most of his life.
Michael is a restaurateur and lives in Bexley.

When and how did you start running? "Looking back upon one's running can be a source of pride but also a lesson in humility. I have run 25 straight Boston Marathons, finishing 22 of them under 3 hours. I am grateful for staying healthy, uninjured and competitive all these years. Don't let the words, could've, would've and should've enter your mind."

How do you train and what is your favorite workout? I try to be consistent with my training. I have trained in 100 degree and minus 23 degree weather. I've been physically assaulted, been chased, had bottles and cans hurled at me from cars, been run off the road into a ditch and have had every size and shape of dogs try to run me down. Every other daily run, besides these, I would consider my favorite."

What do you think of the RUNOHIO Grand Prix? Which races were your favorite and why? All of the races are fun, competitive and challenging. I was unable to run as many as I would have liked. Maybe in the future a series could be created to divide the state up in regions, competing as teams or having a final 5km at the Ohio State University track could make the grand prix even better."

Why do you run? "I've always enjoyed sore muscles and joints. My wife loves my soggy and smelly shorts and shirts. My kids really love waiting at awards ceremonies. The problem is, somewhere trapped in my brain is a thought that I still can run well. I guess this is either a curse or a blessing. I'll tell you which after running another 20 years.

"Any advise for runners who want to improve their running? Don't look back. Don't look too far ahead.
Set realistic goals. Never be satisfied and finally never quit or give up."

Men Senior

Bill Zehner


Bill Zehner, 64, has been running for fourteen years.
Bill lives in Shelby where he is a mechanic.

When and how did you start running? "I started running when I turned 50 years old. I had gained some weight and wanted to take it off. My son said he was going to run the Columbus Marathon and said you might as well go too. My first race 1990 Columbus Marathon."

How do you train and what is your favorite workout?
"I run about 35 miles per week with very little speed work. My favorite workout is a 10 miler on Sunday. I also enjoy running with the high school boys (mostly behind them) and coach Z."

What do you think of the RUNOHIO Grand Prix? Which races were your favorites and why? I enjoyed the quality and quantity of all of the RUNOHIO Grand Prix races and I try to do as many as I can. My favorites are the Columbus 10K and Minster 10K."

Why do you run? "I run to keep my weight down, stay fit and relieve stress. I feel better now than I did at 40 year old."

Any advise for runners who want to improve their running? Keep a training log and recording my weight once a week helps me."

Women Open

Lisa Veneziano


Lisa Veneziano, 39, has been running for 25 years.
Lisa lives in West Chester where she is a General Motors Plant Manager at the Cincinnati Parks Distribution Center.

When and how did you start running? "In 1989 at age 25 a friend asked my husband and me to run in a local race (Holy Redeemer 4 mile run in Flint, MI) that she and her husband directed. I was the 2nd female overall and my husband and I won the married couple division.
Needless to say, the initial success motivated me to get more serious about running and racing."

How do you train and what is your favorite workout?
"With my career and a toddler I often get up in the morning to get 4 or 5 miles in and do my long runs (10
miles) on Saturday and Sunday with my husband. I try to maintain 35 to 40 miles a week. I used to like to do track workouts, however, it's been several years since I have "fit" those in. My speed workouts are obtained primarily through racing and tempo runs. My favorite workout is a long tempo run with my husband on the weekend. We are very competitive with each other and our 10 mile Sunday run often turns into a speed session for the last 5 miles."

What do you think of the RUNOHIO Grand Prix? Which races were your favorites and why? "It's pretty cool because it causes you to put races on your calendar that you normally wouldn't and, as a result, get to experience new towns, new people and new races. My favorite was the Flying Pig Marathon. It was my first time running the Pig even though when we lived in Columbus we had friends from Michigan stay with us on their way to run it in 2002. I had just moved to Cincinnati last December, so it was great running a hometown marathon. I also have to mention how much I enjoyed the Heart Mini because of the course and the Minster Run because of the festive atmosphere."

Why do you run? "Running for me is very uplifting.
I get a "boost" after every run. It is just something that I really enjoy doing. I love to be outside taking in everything around me and it's also my stress relief.
Running is very flexible workout, all it takes is a pair of shoes and I can get my "fix" just about anywhere. In addition, I am a very competitive person and racing gives me an opportunity to compete."

Any advice for runners who want to improve their running? "I am not the best person to answer this question since I have never had any professional coaching (unless you count my husband, ha! ha!).
However, what I find that works for me is to be as consistent as possible. Your body has memory, so all the miles you log will help you in the long run. Even though my mileage isn't very high, I can still do well when I target for a specific distance since I have a consistent base of 40 miles a week. I increase my base by about 10 miles a week and increase my long weekend runs for a marathon. For shorter races I don't really do anything out of the ordinary since my races are my speedwork other than some tempo runs."

Betty Newton


Betty Newton, 51, lives in Curtice where she is a fourth grade teacher. Betty has been running for twenty eight years.

When and how did you start running? "I started running in 1975 and racing in 1978. My kids were little and running was a good way to get out of the house and have some time for myself."

How do you train and what is your favorite workout?
"I usually run about 40-45 miles per week. During the week I run 7 miles each morning with a group of runners from Oregon. It's easier running at 5:00 a.m.
when you know other runners are going to be out there too. Even on the worst of days there is always at least one runner (Dan Reardon) who shows up. I think running with others has helped me stay consistent with my mileage.
I try to alternate hard days with easy days of running. During the winter months, I try not to worry about speed and just focus on distance. The older I get the harder it is to stay injury free, especially, during the winter."

What do you think of the RUNOHIO Grand Prix? Which races were your favorites and why? "The RUNOHIO Grand Prix is an excellent way to meet other runners from all over the state. John and I have met a lot of wonderful runners we would never have met if it hadn't been for the Grand Prix. It's also nice to be able to put faces to the names you see in the racing results of RUNOHIO. My favorite races were the Columbus 10K and Toledo Classic 10K. I like the Columbus 10K because the course is challenging, and the results are always accurate. The Toledo Classic 10K has a great course and is close to home which is always a plus.
Both races have race directors who know how to put on a great race."

Why do you run? "I've always enjoyed competition,
and running has allowed me to be competitive even into my fifties. However, I think it's the friendships I have made through running which has increased my enjoyment of the sport over the years."

Any advice for runners who want to improve their
running? "Just be consistent in your training. Set
up a schedule for your training and stick to it.
However, don't be afraid to back off if you start hurting."

Cassandra McCune


Cassandra McCune, 34, has been running for six years.
Cassandra lives in Nashport and is a mental health technician.

When and how did you start running? "In the spring of
1998 my husband persuaded me to run about 5 miles. I thought it would be easy, but after a quarter of a mile I needed a break and decided to get in better shape. After running a few months I started running races from 5km's to 100 miles and have been enjoying them ever since."

How do you train and what is your favorite workout?
While training my miles vary weekly depending on my next race. I've decided to train with more quality and less miles each week, about 40- 60. Throughout my months of training for a marathon I reach for a couple weeks of 80 miles. My favorite workout is speedwork with my friend which is done at least once each week.
These workouts consist of from 800 to 1600 meters and have been helping me improve both physically and mentally. I also enjoy running a 20-25 mile course through hills with friends a couple of times during the winter."

What do you think of the RUNOHIO Grand Prix? Which races were your favorites and why? "I've really enjoyed running the Grand Prix races because the series has many different races to choose from. Mike and I enjoy traveling throughout Ohio and meeting other runners who compete in the races. My favorite races include the Flying Pig Marathon and the Columbus Marathon. I like the marathons best because I feel stronger with more endurance throughout these.

Why do you run? "I run mostly to stay fit and healthy.
Also running is important to reduce stress and it helps me think more positive. I run in order to complete some goals and I enjoy the competition."

Any advice for runners who want to improve their running?" "Be consistent with each workout and don't be afraid of high mileage. But if you feel an injury is coming on, don't be afraid to take a few days or weeks off for recovery. I run by myself about 90% of the time but always enjoy running with my friends alot more. If you run alone I suggest you find some friends to run with because they help you continue and enjoy running."

Women Masters

Michelle Rupe


Michelle Rupe, 44, lives in Cortland where she is a homemaker and substitute teacher. Michelle has been running for twenty-three years.

When and how did you first start running? " I ran a few sprints and threw the discus in high school. I was third in the State Championships in the discus with a toss of 129 feet. I went to college to throw.
Indoor track didn't have the discus, so I started running with the sprinters. When January came, I went out and did a seven mile run with he distance runners.
The rest is history and I have been running ever since."

How do you train and what is your favorite workout?
"As I get older I do what I can do - that varies greatly. If I feel good I do pick ups. I mostly do distance. I usually race myself into shape."
Why do you run? "I run to stay in shape. I feel better about myself after a run. I also have four children and it's my time alone to think"

What do you think of the RUNOHIO Grand Prix? Which races were your favorites and why? It's is a good series for the average runner. You can do well and not be a world record holder. Any race is my favorite."

Any advice for runners who want to improve their running? "Listen to your body. Take advantage when things are going perfect. Race when you are ready and take it easy during the winter and don't race all year round. Keep it in perspective. My focus is on the Lord; everything falls into place after that. Most things in life are temporal, you can't depend on running for your livelihood."


Women Grand Masters

Barbara Janssen


Barbara Janssen, 56, has been running for twenty years. Barb lives in Cincinnati where she is a school librarian.

When and how did you start running? "I first started to run twenty years ago because I needed exercise after having four children and also to have a little time to myself out on the roads. I had friends who ran and they talked me into it."

How do you train and what is your favorite workout? "
I train on different routes, streets, neighborhoods and trails and enjoy running in new places when traveling. My favorite run was at Torrey Pines Park in La Jolla, California. I run 5 days a week before work and enjoy seeing the sunrise. My favorite workout is real long slow miles to enjoy the day."

What do you think of the RUNOHIO Grand Prix? Which races were your favorites and why? "I ran a few RUNOHIO Grand Prix races last year and found them lots of fun, well organized and good food and awards. So this year I ran more of them. My favorite is the Miami University Red Brick Run because I like the awards and campus atmosphere and somewhat a challenging course. I also like the Gary Smith Worthington Classic because it's for a good cause."
Why do you run? "I run mostly for the health of it.
To stay in shape and have lots of energy is important.
Also, I run for fun, friends, to be outdoors and because my family runs with me. MY most prized achievement was finishing the Ironman Triahtlon in Hawaii in 1989."

Any advice for runners who want to improve their running? My advice to others is to have fun is number 1, also keep mental toughness, take time off more than you think you need it. Make running a part of your lifestyle. But most of all - enjoy it!"

Women Senior

Ruth Watson


Ruth Watson, 70 has been running for only three years.
Ruth lives in Lancaster where she is retired.

When and how did you start running? I started running in March 2001 with a friend, Thad Davis. He helped coach me by starting me running a half- mile and soon I was up to three miles. My first race was a 5km in May
2001 just before my 68th birthday and I was hooked"
How do you train? "I run six days a week, running from 2-6 miles, sometimes more as I train for longer races. I do weight training three times a week and
swim twice a week. My favorite workout is doing 2
miles of pick up followed by a swim.

What do you think of the RUNOHIO Grand Prix? Which races were your favorites and why? "I enjoy the RUNOHIO Grand Prix. I enjoyed the competition and organization of the races. It is hard to pick a favorite. I love the Columbus 10K. I ran the Toledo Classic and Columbus Grove Beer Bottle Open for the first time this year. I loved the race courses."

Why do you run? I run so I can train for the road races. I love to run and the health benefits are many. I am thankful I can do it."

Any advice for runners who want to improve their
running?" "I guess just doing different types of
running-slow, fast, short and long runs. Also, swimming and strength training should be some part of your training. Whatever gets your heart rate up."

Virginia Farneman


Virginia Farneman, 66, has been running for nineteen years. Virginia lives in Delaware County where she is self employed.

When and how did you start running? "I started running in 1985. I got the inspiration to run from watching the Boston Marathon in 1984."

How do you train? "I run very sporadically, but do try to do a marathon every 2-3 weeks."

What do you think of the RUNOHIO Grand Prix? Which races were your favorites and why? "The RUNOHIO Grand Prix is a good series. My favorite races are the Columbus Marathon-excellent management, Dayton River Corridor Half Marathon-great after race events, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame Kickoff 5 Miler-great trophy."

Why do you run? "I run for the pleasure of it."

Any advice for runners who want to improve their running?" "train,train,train".