The August Runner Spotlight is on Mark Page, a retired Vulcan Materials dispatcher who “served 6 years in the Navy with 4-1/2 years of those on the Fast Attack Submarine USS Lapon.” Mark jokes that if he “comes off as not quite right, that is partly why.” After his retirement, Mark began to make an effort to prioritize his health and says that running has been a key component of his “transformation.”
In 2016, Mark began by “mostly walking” events—“for the tshirts”—and has gradually increased the number of races he participates in from “just a few per year” to enough to earn an invitation to the Bishop’s Events annual banquet. During the 2020 COVID pandemic, having well-organized races available kept him motivated “to start really pursuing more activity.” In 2024, he has already finished 40+ events with us!
His biggest running accomplishment “was the 10K ruck race at Valor Ranch this year,” which Mark says “won’t be the last ruck race” he participates in. As someone who is up for a challenge, Mark admits that while he doesn’t have a favorite course, he does have a few that he says he “will never do again, and then invariably end[s] up doing again.” Someday, Mark hopes to conquer the Marine Corps Marathon.
When asked why he keeps returning to Bishop’s Events races, Mark says that it largely comes down to the people: “As I participated more, the people were the draw. I have met some truly amazing and interesting people/friends through [running with Bishop’s Events].” Mark says that all of the encouragement between runners and event staff “has allowed this introvert to open up a little.” After a race, you might find Mark enjoying a Kirkland protein bar with friends.
Come say hello to Mark at one of our upcoming events!