Gary Korner
Resides in: Nazareth
Years running: 2
Bio: I’m the last of 13 children. Originally from Cranford, NJ. I’ve been married to Deborah for 17 years. I have three children, Nick (12), Luke (10) and Maddy (8). I work from home as a senior liability claim examiner.

What do you enjoy most about running?
I love the solitude and peace. When I’m running I’m no longer Gary, the husband, father, brother, uncle, friend, employee. I’m just a runner with no cares or responsibilities.

What is the strangest/funniest thing that has happened to you on a run?
Every year I go on a baseball trip with two friends of mine. Last year we went to Chicago and my friend, Emery and I went for a run. We ran along Lake Michigan to Soldier Field. As it turned out there was a big race being held (too bad I didn’t check or we could have raced it). Since we looked like runners we were able to walk right into Soldier Field and onto the field.

What is your biggest running accomplishment and why?
Running my first marathon, the Disney World Marathon in January of this year. I came a long way from the person who smoked a pack of cigarettes a day for 20 years and weighed nearly 200 pounds. It was also one of the few things in my life that I set my sights on which I accomplished. I’m also a huge Disney fan and the whole experience from the parks to the 29 degree weather was surreal. You never forget your first.

Most embarrassing race moment?
It takes a lot to embarrass me but I had a nice “duh moment” when I lined up on the wrong side of the start line at the Pocono Run for the Red … but I wasn’t the only one so it was okay.

Running Heroes?
I just got into running two years ago so I don’t have any heroes. I find inspiration in everyone who laces up their sneakers.

Current running goals?
My goal for this year is to run 1,000 miles. I’m well ahead of pace right now. A long term goal is to run an ultra 50-miler at the age of 50.

What would your family and friends tell us about your passion for running?
I also think they’d say that it is something that I clearly love to do and am excited about doing. I know I’ve inspired a few of them to get off the couch, which is pretty cool.

Best race experience?
Without a doubt the Disney World Marathon. Starting in the dark with fireworks and the torches in Epcot, through the parks, the bands, cheerleaders, people on stilts and trampolines, over 18,000 runners and who knows how may fans, what an experience.

After finishing the Disney Marathon

Do you have a favorite race?
The Disney World Marathon, of course. I’m going to California in September to run the Disneyland 1/2 marathon and earn my coast to coast medal. I will have to take the Goofy challenge some day.