When your running friends literally nickname you “Fast”, you know you’re seriously bringing the heat! And our featured NRCer of the Month, “Fast Andy” Michael a.k.a. FAM, has lived up to his nickname since joining NRC. Not only does he crush PRs on road and trail, but he’s also quick to support his friends in training and life.
While his running style seems effortless, he’d be the first to admit that speed and stamina doesn’t come easy. For him, it’s all about building on a solid foundation and pushing himself a little more beyond his limits with each new goal. I had the opportunity to ask FAM a few questions about his life, his running philosophy and how he found NRC…
NRC: Where were you born and what are a few favorite things about where you lived before Nolensville?
FAM: I was born in Nashville, TN at Baptist Hospital. Recently, I lived in downtown Nashville for 3 years and loved being in the action. You used to be able to find tickets to weeknight Preds’ games for about $12! Then my wife Grace and I moved to Lenox Village, and I started coming to NRC.
NRC: You seem so goal-driven in race training. What is your current occupation, and are their goals you’ve worked toward in your field, as well?
FAM: I am the Portfolio Manager for Sailer Financial in Brentwood. We do comprehensive financial planning and wealth management for individuals and families. I have my Charter Financial Analyst (CFA) designation and serve on the CFA Society Nashville board. I have a passion for investing and helping people reach their goals!
NRC: Why did you decide to move to Nolensville?
FAM: We moved to Nolensville in September of 2019. A big part in our decision to move was due to NRC. The friendships we built are now our community and family.
NRC: I imagine that the training you have to do to get the speed to qualify for Boston and the endurance for ultra-marathons, like the Georgia Death Race and others you’ve run, must be really tough and require a lot of time running and recovering. What does your family think about it all?
FAM: My wife Grace and I have been married for 5 years and we have a dog named Gus. They both think my running is a little crazy, but are very supportive and proud of my accomplishments.
NRC: When did running become a part of your life? Was there a specific motivation to start?
FAM: I started running in 2011. I decided I needed to get into shape and the gym just wasn’t for me. So I signed up for the Country Music half and the rest is history.
NRC: Just how fast are you? Just kidding, but seriously, have you always been able to keep a fast pace running? What are a few must-do things for you in staying conditioned?
FAM: I’ve run a 1:26 half and 3 hour flat marathon. Consistency is key! Always have another goal to chase and find a way to push yourself a little further each time.
NRC: You’ve been running with NRC for about 3 years now. How did you hear about the club?
FAM: An office suite-mate, Lorena, knew I ran and told me to come check it out. Scott Alexander greeted me like we were lifelong friends, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
NRC: You are such a consistent NRC Wednesday night runner and you’re a part of the notorious DES Crew. I can imagine there are a lot of friendships which have formed over those miles of training and race days. Describe how they have impacted you and your running goals?
FAM: So many to name! I have run more miles with Kyle Prince than anyone. We have done more red loops at Percy than I care to count! We have pushed each other beyond what we thought possible this year. Blake Bivens was right there with us all year long! Andrea Klint and Ruth Wilkins are my go to road mile warriors – always love sharing a mile and laugh with them. Zack Klint coached and crewed me all year long – right through a GDR finish! Jason Loyd and Eric Waterman always dangle the carrot a little longer and faster to keep me pushing to be better. Michael Teague, Matt Wilkins, Scott Alexander, Traci Boswell, Wendy Cook Mucci and Amy Klotz round out my Wednesday NRC crew!
NRC: What are a few of your proudest running accomplishments or favorite races?
FAM: My first half was Country Music in 2011 and my first marathon was the Mercedes Marathon in Birmingham (2012). My first BQ was Chicago Marathon in 2013 and I ran Boston in 2015. My first 50 miler was a few years later in 2018 at the Lookout Mountain 50. In 2019 at Carmel, I ran my marathon PR – 3:00:53 and got a “blue shirt” (sub 6 hours) at the Strolling Jim 41 Miler. Also proud of my finish at the Georgia Death Race – 2020.
NRC: You’ve subjected yourself to some pretty gnarly races. LOL! Would you call yourself a glutton for punishment?
FAM: Haha – how about a glutton for what’s next! Always has to be a “next”. And faster or longer are the main two options!
NRC: COVID-19 has impacted everyone in some way. What is something positive you have learned or reaffirmed about yourself, either running related or not?
FAM: I’ve learned that I need to embrace and enjoy the small opportunities, and not take adventures for granted.
NRC: What is one of your most memorable NRC moments?
FAM: My first big NRC group race was RC-Cola & MoonPie 10 Mile in 2018. Just seeing how everyone cheered on each other and the pride of the NRC tribe was truly special and made a lasting impact. I now do that at every NRC race!
NRC: That’s awesome! You are such a positive motivator and strong competitor for our club, and you and Grace are a special part of our running family. We are beyond proud to spotlight all you have accomplished. Congrats! We are so glad to have you as part of NRC!
SPEED ROUND – “Fast Andy” Michael
Dream vacation: New Zealand
Non-Running Hobbies: Watching sports (big Atlanta Braves fan), golf, and traveling
Favorite holiday tradition: Watching Christmas Vacation
Hidden Talent: Ping Pong
I run because… being in motion outdoors is the greatest gift we have!