Raj Bhanot

Q: When did you begin running and why?
I began running in high school. I was part of a team sport, but the team rebelled with school management and did not participate in the tournament. So I ended up participating in track & field events that year and won a 3K race.

Q: How did you find out about DCRR and when did you join?
My first race with DCRR was the Alexandria Turkey Trot in 2004. I joined the club in 2010 to run all of the free races!

Q: What are you training for right now?
In recent years I have not followed any training plans; I have just run races. Short distance races work as training runs for marathons. My next race is the Sugarloaf Marathon in Maine on May 15, 2016.

Q: What is the toughest run or race you’ve ever participated in?
I have completed 65 marathons/ultras. The longest distance I have done is 76 miles in 20 hours (during the Philly 24). The Skyline challenge 50K was the toughest race due to rough weather and very technical terrain.

Q: What’s your favorite part about being a DCRR member?
My favorite part is the camaraderie of fellow runners and volunteering. I also enjoy cheering runners in club races.

Q: What’s your favorite route in the area?
I love trying new trails, and I really like the W&OD, C&O Canal, Mt Vernon, and FCC trails.

Q: What’s the most important lesson running has taught you?
Life can be very long when running ultra races, which has taught me about taking responsibility and to live in the moment!

Q: What race day traditions do you have?
I’m thankful to be at start line and pray.

Q: What’s your proudest running moment?
Winning a 10K race in college. I got cheated by a lap in the 5K and placed 2nd. I told my friends to show-up to make sure it was fair competition. The next day I won the 10K beating the 2nd place guy by 2 laps!

Q: What’s your life like outside of running?
My family & non-running friends think running is my life! Being the VP of Races will add more fun to it. I am an IT Consultant, love traveling, outdoors, yoga, and working on house projects.

Q: What is one thing you wouldn’t run without?
Running shorts! There are bunch of clothing-optional races . . .