Pace Setter : February 2022

Runner Questionnaire - Michael DiNicola

When and why did you start running?

I joined the indoor track team sophomore year of high school to get in shape for tennis tryouts that spring. But when I didn’t make the team I joined the outdoor track team. I then ran cross country in the fall of my junior year. I never tried out for tennis again.

What’s your favorite race to date, and why?

The stockade-athon because I’ve been running it since high school.

What has been your biggest running adventure to date?

I love traveling to destination races and competing against runners I’ve never met before. I enjoyed the Shipyard Old Port Half marathon in Portland Maine. Good course. Great after party.

What is your approach to training? Do you follow a particular training plan, or do you work with a coach and if so, who?

I work with both Dick Vincent and Mark Mindel. Largely I run solo but consult with my coaches for group workouts and training advice.

What is your weekly mileage in peak racing/marathon training season? What is your approach to the off season?

I like to get up to 70 miles in a week during a peak/target season. In the off season I run anywhere between 30 – 40 miles a week. I’m not into doing intervals in the off season because I believe that the body needs a break from year round training.

During our cold winter days, do you brave poor weather conditions or stick indoors on the treadmill? If you do run outside, what safety measures do you take?

I believe in getting outside as much as possible year round. If the weather gets too treacherous in the winter, I’ll supplement with an indoor ElliptiGO ride on a trainer. If I go out during winter I try to run in daylight as much as my schedule allows.

List your PRs: Race, time, year:

15K: 54:46, 2019 Stockade-athon,

5K: 17:17 2019 Great Pumpkin Challenge,

1:19:33, 2019 Wineglass Half Marathon

Miles on the Mohawk Marathon 2021 3:03:13 (first marathon)

What was your worst injury and how did you get over it?

I’ve torn into my right Achilles tendon at least 3 times. I’ve used a boot each time to help bring me back. More recently I used more cross training over a period of 6 weeks in the summer to bring me back again. The hardest part of injury is missing out on the race experience.

Your favorite shoe for training and racing

Currently training in the Saucony Endorphin Speed. Race in the Saucony Endorphin Pro and Nike Vaporfly 4%

Ever run in a costume?
Looking for a spiderman outfit that fits…

Do you work with a dietitian to enhance your performance? If so, who?

I’ve consulted with Theresa Delorenzo on multiple occasions.

What are your favorite pre-race and post-race meals?

Pre race: coffee, OJ, Wheaties. Post race: Beer and a burger

What activities do you enjoy when not running?

Reading to and playing with my son, skiing during winter, taking my wife out on really hot dates.

What challenges / races / adventures are you planning for the coming year?

The 126^th Boston Marathon this April. Not sure about a fall marathon…yet

What is the greatest piece of advice you've ever received in the sport?

 Never sell yourself short

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