Richard Frame

Q: When did you begin running and why?
I started running in 2015. Before that, I was an avid hiker, spending lots of time in the VA, MD, and CO mountains. However, long distance hikes took too long and I wanted to dabble with going a little faster and less time commitment. The answer for me was trail running—I could get in more miles in a lot less time. My other main driver for getting into running was my son, Matt, who was excelling in high school cross country and track & field as a distance runner during the same time period. He was having so much fun and doing well and it was very inspiring to me.

Q: How did you find out about DCRR and when did you join?
I joined DCRR in September 2016. I was looking for a local event to expand into road racing and complement my trail running.

Q: What are you training for right now?
I’m starting a new training cycle in June to prepare for a few fall events—the Taos New Mexico “Bull of the Woods” trail marathon in September, a local 10 mile trail running series across October-November, and maybe a trail 50K in October/November.

Q: What is the toughest run or race in which you have participated?
Probably the Rocky Gap, MD trail 50K race last October. I started out too fast (runners never do that . . .), the weather got warmer than expected (salt rings anyone?), and the trail was very rocky and root-filled (is it a ‘trail’ race . . . I wiped out multiple times). It was a pain-filled morning, but I finished!

Q: What is the most important lesson running has taught you?
Every runner has different ways to approach the sport. For me, running has taught me that I have to work hard and be very disciplined and consistent to approach or reach my goals.

Q: What is your favorite route in the area?
I really enjoy running along the Mt. Vernon Trail along the Potomac River in Virginia. I’m fortunate that I can run straight from my door and quickly reach the trail and go either north or south for equally amazing views.