The average runner in the Chicago Marathon finishes the 42.2k road race in around 4:20:00 – a beatable standard for CAR Board Member Dr. Richard Walker.
He finished the late October race in an incredible 3:00:37. The 56-year-old connects his drive to run major marathons with his approach to radiology.
“I am continuously setting new running goals and chasing those elusive personal records,” said Dr. Walker. “Radiology is no different. We are always aspiring to improve, whether learning a new technique or procedure, or when setting a personal, research, or administrative goal.”
Dr. Walker also uses running as a way to escape the vigor of a demanding career, think through an issue to resolve, or simply quiet the mind. “Reflecting on my medical career, I have always been at my best when I was running,” he said.
Growing up, Dr. Walker was a competitive cross-country skier, beginning his familiarity with long-distance endurance races. He says he took to running in the warmer months.
“In the off season, my cross-training was primarily running and cycling. Running on the local cross-country ski trails was always my favourite.”
Through enjoyment and dedication, Dr. Walker’s running has dramatically improved.
“In the past, long and slow distance epitomized my long training runs. My long runs are now faster, and I frequently include tempo segments at my goal marathon race pace or half marathon pace. Get 'comfortable with uncomfortable' to better prepare for those hard segments in your goal race.”
Congratulations to Dr. Walker on the amazing finish and for setting an example of personal health and motivation.