Team Roster
(scroll down or click name to go directly to each athlete's profile)
(scroll down or click name to go directly to each athlete's profile)
Scot Bellavia
Christopher "Toph" Blankenship
Maria Bocanegra
Steve Crowder
Marleigh Durham
Daniel Kolasa
Emma Kozlowski
Sam Lev
Amanda Logan
Nate Michener
Julie Moore
Colin Munsey
Abby Oliver
Andrew Parkins
Natalie Patterson
Seth Pennington
Nathan Perkinson
David Rasmussen
Matt Rich
Bob Rimkis
Sabra Robitaille
Emily Thompson
Alyssa Vassallo
Bobby Walkiewicz
Patrick Woodford
Christopher "Toph" Blankenship
Maria Bocanegra
Steve Crowder
Marleigh Durham
Daniel Kolasa
Emma Kozlowski
Sam Lev
Amanda Logan
Nate Michener
Julie Moore
Colin Munsey
Abby Oliver
Andrew Parkins
Natalie Patterson
Seth Pennington
Nathan Perkinson
David Rasmussen
Matt Rich
Bob Rimkis
Sabra Robitaille
Emily Thompson
Alyssa Vassallo
Bobby Walkiewicz
Patrick Woodford
Scot Bellavia
Scot has been running since 2010, continuing to add miles each year evolving him into the type of runner he is now. For the past few years, he’s dreamt only of trail ultra-marathons, and officially came into that world last year on a 29-mile training run for a subsequent 29-mile race the following month. 2016 has been the best all-around running year of Scot’s life so far. He enjoys long distances on the trails, combined with speed workouts and group runs. Scot received an age group win over 10k on the trails, first overall over 12 miles on the trails, a hard earned third overall at Conquer the Cove 25k, and second overall on a flat trail 5-miler. From August to the beginning of October, Scot trained for a run he dreamed about after driving it in the fall of 2015. Scot ran 50 miles south on the Blue Ridge Parkway, his proudest running accomplishment yet. He then ran the Richmond Marathon for the experience of a big city marathon, finishing in a solid time of 3:26. 2017 has Scot itching once again for big miles on the trails. If his winter training turns out as planned, Scot will be running long in Catawba and the Roanoke Valley training for the Bel Monte 50-Miler in March, the double Blue Ridge Marathon, the Grayson Highlands 50k and maybe another ultra. For Scot, running is a lifelong pursuit, less about podium finishes and more about days in nature climbing beautiful mountains.
Scot has been running since 2010, continuing to add miles each year evolving him into the type of runner he is now. For the past few years, he’s dreamt only of trail ultra-marathons, and officially came into that world last year on a 29-mile training run for a subsequent 29-mile race the following month. 2016 has been the best all-around running year of Scot’s life so far. He enjoys long distances on the trails, combined with speed workouts and group runs. Scot received an age group win over 10k on the trails, first overall over 12 miles on the trails, a hard earned third overall at Conquer the Cove 25k, and second overall on a flat trail 5-miler. From August to the beginning of October, Scot trained for a run he dreamed about after driving it in the fall of 2015. Scot ran 50 miles south on the Blue Ridge Parkway, his proudest running accomplishment yet. He then ran the Richmond Marathon for the experience of a big city marathon, finishing in a solid time of 3:26. 2017 has Scot itching once again for big miles on the trails. If his winter training turns out as planned, Scot will be running long in Catawba and the Roanoke Valley training for the Bel Monte 50-Miler in March, the double Blue Ridge Marathon, the Grayson Highlands 50k and maybe another ultra. For Scot, running is a lifelong pursuit, less about podium finishes and more about days in nature climbing beautiful mountains.
Christopher "Toph" Blankenship
Toph’s first attempt at training for a race was in 2011 when he trained for the Disney World Marathon. While he hit the wall hard at mile 21, he had a good time and finished in 4:10. His favorite part was the training, although he didn't train for another race until the 2016 Shamrock Marathon where he cut around 30 minutes off his previous best time. Since then, Toph has run 3 more marathons and continued to PR each time. He feels he learns something new every time he trains for a marathon. He has run a half marathon and a few 5k's but tends to focus his training around marathons. Moving forward, Toph has a goal of running the North Face Endurance 50 miler in Washington DC in April 2018. He would also like to get his PR below 3:20 in the marathon and be competitive in the upcoming 2018 RNUTS series as well as in his age group in local races. Toph is excited about RET because he knows there is a big talent pool of people to get to know and feels there is an opportunity to be challenged by the group because the bar is set high. He hopes to learn from the group, be inspired to run harder and faster, and be part of that overall team inspiration to keep improving.
Toph’s first attempt at training for a race was in 2011 when he trained for the Disney World Marathon. While he hit the wall hard at mile 21, he had a good time and finished in 4:10. His favorite part was the training, although he didn't train for another race until the 2016 Shamrock Marathon where he cut around 30 minutes off his previous best time. Since then, Toph has run 3 more marathons and continued to PR each time. He feels he learns something new every time he trains for a marathon. He has run a half marathon and a few 5k's but tends to focus his training around marathons. Moving forward, Toph has a goal of running the North Face Endurance 50 miler in Washington DC in April 2018. He would also like to get his PR below 3:20 in the marathon and be competitive in the upcoming 2018 RNUTS series as well as in his age group in local races. Toph is excited about RET because he knows there is a big talent pool of people to get to know and feels there is an opportunity to be challenged by the group because the bar is set high. He hopes to learn from the group, be inspired to run harder and faster, and be part of that overall team inspiration to keep improving.
Maria Bocanegra
Maria has been a runner for over 20 years. She finds so many challenges, but so much joy in the sport. More than anything, Maria loves how it binds people together and creates community. For the past 6 years, since becoming a mother, she has focused on endurance and distance. In the past two years alone, Maria has raced in over 20 races, and has been top 3 female in all but 4 of them. Her race distances have ranged from 5k to 50k. Her consistency and ability to show up when it counts are some of Maria’s top attributes as a runner, and something she hopes to be able to hone for many years to come. Maria set a goal of running her first ultra trail race in 2016, which she did, and fell head over heels. For 2017, she plans to run the Eiger Ultra Trail 51k in Gindelwald, Switzerland. For the first time ever, Maria plans to create a training block to focus on one big race. She will race a few tune-up races in the spring of 2017, but most of her training energy will go toward the Eiger in July. Maria is looking to do big things individually and with RET moving forward into 2017!
Maria has been a runner for over 20 years. She finds so many challenges, but so much joy in the sport. More than anything, Maria loves how it binds people together and creates community. For the past 6 years, since becoming a mother, she has focused on endurance and distance. In the past two years alone, Maria has raced in over 20 races, and has been top 3 female in all but 4 of them. Her race distances have ranged from 5k to 50k. Her consistency and ability to show up when it counts are some of Maria’s top attributes as a runner, and something she hopes to be able to hone for many years to come. Maria set a goal of running her first ultra trail race in 2016, which she did, and fell head over heels. For 2017, she plans to run the Eiger Ultra Trail 51k in Gindelwald, Switzerland. For the first time ever, Maria plans to create a training block to focus on one big race. She will race a few tune-up races in the spring of 2017, but most of her training energy will go toward the Eiger in July. Maria is looking to do big things individually and with RET moving forward into 2017!
Steve Crowder
Since graduating from Roanoke College in 1996, Steve has competed in over 250 road races and finished first overall in over 150 of those events, notching best times that include 15:18 for 5k, 31:38 for 10k, and 52:22 for 10 miles. During this time, he has been ranked first in the Open Men’s Division of the Washington Running Report’s Road Race Rankings as well as first in the West Virginia Road Race Rankings as compiled by RunWV.com. He’s also finished second in the Men’s Open Division of the Running Journal Grand Prix Series, won the Fredericksburg Area Grand Prix Series, and held the VA State 12k Road Race Record in the Open Men’s Division. Now a Masters runner, in addition to competing locally, Steve is looking to compete in USATF Masters Regional/National Championships on the roads and track and hopes to achieve the USATF Masters All-American standard for 3k, 5k, and 10k. Having battled injuries throughout his 30s, Steve also hopes to run faster in his 40s than he did in his 30s. Steve runs as a competitive outlet and to challenge himself to always be improving. He also likes the camaraderie of the running community. Outside of running, Steve loves spending time with his wife and daughter and really enjoys the outdoors.
Since graduating from Roanoke College in 1996, Steve has competed in over 250 road races and finished first overall in over 150 of those events, notching best times that include 15:18 for 5k, 31:38 for 10k, and 52:22 for 10 miles. During this time, he has been ranked first in the Open Men’s Division of the Washington Running Report’s Road Race Rankings as well as first in the West Virginia Road Race Rankings as compiled by RunWV.com. He’s also finished second in the Men’s Open Division of the Running Journal Grand Prix Series, won the Fredericksburg Area Grand Prix Series, and held the VA State 12k Road Race Record in the Open Men’s Division. Now a Masters runner, in addition to competing locally, Steve is looking to compete in USATF Masters Regional/National Championships on the roads and track and hopes to achieve the USATF Masters All-American standard for 3k, 5k, and 10k. Having battled injuries throughout his 30s, Steve also hopes to run faster in his 40s than he did in his 30s. Steve runs as a competitive outlet and to challenge himself to always be improving. He also likes the camaraderie of the running community. Outside of running, Steve loves spending time with his wife and daughter and really enjoys the outdoors.
Marleigh Durham
Marleigh started running as a sport in 5th grade when she saw a poster hanging in the hallway for middle school cross country. She's still not sure why she knew, but she knew she had to do it. Marleigh ran cross country and track throughout middle and high school, setting her middle school's mile record and qualifying for states each year in high school for both sports. She decided to take a rest in college when asked to run for RU. While still a little upset she never took that opportunity, she's happy to be feeling fresh and ready to get serious about running again. Marleigh moved to Roanoke after college for a job in education and medical research sales, and she's fallen in love with the area and all the outdoor activities (hiking, mountain biking, etc). After seeing all of the ads for this past Blue Ridge Marathon, she decided to give a half marathon a try and just wing it. She ended up loving the longer distance and surprising herself. Marleigh is currently combining weight training with endurance sports and loves the results so far. She's getting ready for her first marathon on Nov 11th and her first Ultra (100) in June 2018. Her fastest half marathon time of the three she's run is 1:49:00, so another goal is to shave that up. Marleigh was third overall female in the Salem Half and is very excited to have found RET and to have a support system for her running.
Marleigh started running as a sport in 5th grade when she saw a poster hanging in the hallway for middle school cross country. She's still not sure why she knew, but she knew she had to do it. Marleigh ran cross country and track throughout middle and high school, setting her middle school's mile record and qualifying for states each year in high school for both sports. She decided to take a rest in college when asked to run for RU. While still a little upset she never took that opportunity, she's happy to be feeling fresh and ready to get serious about running again. Marleigh moved to Roanoke after college for a job in education and medical research sales, and she's fallen in love with the area and all the outdoor activities (hiking, mountain biking, etc). After seeing all of the ads for this past Blue Ridge Marathon, she decided to give a half marathon a try and just wing it. She ended up loving the longer distance and surprising herself. Marleigh is currently combining weight training with endurance sports and loves the results so far. She's getting ready for her first marathon on Nov 11th and her first Ultra (100) in June 2018. Her fastest half marathon time of the three she's run is 1:49:00, so another goal is to shave that up. Marleigh was third overall female in the Salem Half and is very excited to have found RET and to have a support system for her running.
Daniel Kolasa
Daniel’s running career started in high school, mostly because his friend joined the team so he figured he would too. Daniel fell in love with the sport almost immediately. For a long time after high school, he didn’t compete and just ran for fun, but a few years ago, Daniel decided to start running competitively again. He enjoyed achieving PRs in many different race distances. Daniel was fascinated how much faster some people could run and became intrigued and inspired. He enjoys seeing how far he can push his body. Daniel is realizing that it's not about running harder anymore, but proper and consistent training, along with many other factors that dictate running performance. As a member of the Roanoke Endurance Team, Daniel is excited to train and race with like-minded runners who push him to be faster, along with learning more about the science of running performance.
Daniel’s running career started in high school, mostly because his friend joined the team so he figured he would too. Daniel fell in love with the sport almost immediately. For a long time after high school, he didn’t compete and just ran for fun, but a few years ago, Daniel decided to start running competitively again. He enjoyed achieving PRs in many different race distances. Daniel was fascinated how much faster some people could run and became intrigued and inspired. He enjoys seeing how far he can push his body. Daniel is realizing that it's not about running harder anymore, but proper and consistent training, along with many other factors that dictate running performance. As a member of the Roanoke Endurance Team, Daniel is excited to train and race with like-minded runners who push him to be faster, along with learning more about the science of running performance.
Emma Kozlowski
Emma grew up in Danville, Virginia. After graduating from Fordham University and Wake Forest School of Law, she began working as an attorney with Glenn, Feldmann, Darby & Goodlatte in Roanoke. Emma was not a collegiate athlete and began training seriously in the spring of 2016. Now Emma competes in races throughout the region at distances ranging from 10k to half marathon. She consistently places among the top tier of female athletes, including a 9th place overall female finish at the 2017 Virginia Beach Rock N’ Roll Half Marathon and numerous 1st place finishes in local races. Her personal records are 19:46 for the 5k, 41:27 for the 10k, and 1:27:31 for the half marathon. Emma is coached by Anna Weber, an elite runner sponsored by Oiselle. Running is not Emma’s only sport, however. She spends much of her free time riding her horse, Wisteria (“Wistie”) Mai. Wistie and Emma often compete and place in local horse shows.
Emma grew up in Danville, Virginia. After graduating from Fordham University and Wake Forest School of Law, she began working as an attorney with Glenn, Feldmann, Darby & Goodlatte in Roanoke. Emma was not a collegiate athlete and began training seriously in the spring of 2016. Now Emma competes in races throughout the region at distances ranging from 10k to half marathon. She consistently places among the top tier of female athletes, including a 9th place overall female finish at the 2017 Virginia Beach Rock N’ Roll Half Marathon and numerous 1st place finishes in local races. Her personal records are 19:46 for the 5k, 41:27 for the 10k, and 1:27:31 for the half marathon. Emma is coached by Anna Weber, an elite runner sponsored by Oiselle. Running is not Emma’s only sport, however. She spends much of her free time riding her horse, Wisteria (“Wistie”) Mai. Wistie and Emma often compete and place in local horse shows.
Sam Lev
Truly a running jack-of-all-trades, Sam has top finishes in races ranging in distance from 1 mile to ultra-marathon on both the trails and the roads within the past two years. As a member of high school state champion teams and collegiate conference champion teams, he aims to keep the winning tradition alive in Roanoke with RET. Sam's personal bests include 16:10 for 5k, 26:45 for 8k cross country, and 47.5 miles for 8 hours on the trails. In the coming years, he hopes to break 16:00 for 5k and continue seeking out unique road and trail races. He's always up for a long mountain climb, whether it's Poor Mountain Rd, the Appalachian Trail, or beyond.
Truly a running jack-of-all-trades, Sam has top finishes in races ranging in distance from 1 mile to ultra-marathon on both the trails and the roads within the past two years. As a member of high school state champion teams and collegiate conference champion teams, he aims to keep the winning tradition alive in Roanoke with RET. Sam's personal bests include 16:10 for 5k, 26:45 for 8k cross country, and 47.5 miles for 8 hours on the trails. In the coming years, he hopes to break 16:00 for 5k and continue seeking out unique road and trail races. He's always up for a long mountain climb, whether it's Poor Mountain Rd, the Appalachian Trail, or beyond.
Amanda Logan
Amanda started running track when she was in 4th grade. In high school, she competed in cross-country for two years and winter track for three years. Amanda went to Penn State for undergrad, where she competed for the club cross-country and track teams. At the 2015 NIRCA Nationals, she placed 4th in the steeplechase. Amanda graduated from Penn State in May of 2016. Since then, she has been competing in local races. Over the summer, Amanda fell in love with racing the mile, and believes that she wants to focus on that racing distance in the future.
Amanda started running track when she was in 4th grade. In high school, she competed in cross-country for two years and winter track for three years. Amanda went to Penn State for undergrad, where she competed for the club cross-country and track teams. At the 2015 NIRCA Nationals, she placed 4th in the steeplechase. Amanda graduated from Penn State in May of 2016. Since then, she has been competing in local races. Over the summer, Amanda fell in love with racing the mile, and believes that she wants to focus on that racing distance in the future.
Nate Michener
Nate has been running since participating in a Turkey Trot as a 7th grader in 2006 and has been desperately addicted ever since. He ran 10 seasons of high school track and swam the other 2 at Mansfield High School in Massachusetts. Nate is a recent engineering graduate of Boston University, where he was a standout member of the BU Running Club. He holds club records in most distances between 1500m and 10k. He participated in the National Intercollegiate Running Club Association's cross-country and outdoor track national championship meets, where this spring he ran 15:59.25 for 5k on the track. Nate is a new resident of Roanoke and working hard to become a well-known name on the local road racing circuit. He is looking to improve his personal bests in 5k, 8k, and 10k (road, track, and cross country), and is also hoping to try his hand in triathlon events.
Nate has been running since participating in a Turkey Trot as a 7th grader in 2006 and has been desperately addicted ever since. He ran 10 seasons of high school track and swam the other 2 at Mansfield High School in Massachusetts. Nate is a recent engineering graduate of Boston University, where he was a standout member of the BU Running Club. He holds club records in most distances between 1500m and 10k. He participated in the National Intercollegiate Running Club Association's cross-country and outdoor track national championship meets, where this spring he ran 15:59.25 for 5k on the track. Nate is a new resident of Roanoke and working hard to become a well-known name on the local road racing circuit. He is looking to improve his personal bests in 5k, 8k, and 10k (road, track, and cross country), and is also hoping to try his hand in triathlon events.
Julie Moore
Julie first found he love of running when she was in college and just running for exercise. Her favorite race distance is the 10-miler, and her favorite race is the Blue Ridge Marathon, which she has run every year since 2010. Her goals as a member of RET are to set a 5k PR both with her daughter in the stroller and without, breaking 4 hours in the marathon, and continue to compete with the top women in her age group.
Julie first found he love of running when she was in college and just running for exercise. Her favorite race distance is the 10-miler, and her favorite race is the Blue Ridge Marathon, which she has run every year since 2010. Her goals as a member of RET are to set a 5k PR both with her daughter in the stroller and without, breaking 4 hours in the marathon, and continue to compete with the top women in her age group.
Colin Munsey
Colin started running when he was 13 years old. He had a very successful high school career, and took his talents to the next level at Christopher Newport University in the early 80’s. His biggest achievement was winning the 10,000 meters at conference as a freshman. However, injuries caused him to give up running for a few years, and he got into bodybuilding for about 20 years. At the age of 41, he weighed 200 pounds and bench-pressed 400 pounds. He finally had ankle surgery to correct an old running injury from college, which allowed him to start running again when his two sons, Jake and Luke, started running in middle school. He started coaching cross-country and track at the high school. Colin then started competing again and became hooked. As time progressed, he found at first he wanted to win his age group, then be in the top 10 at a race… but now he wants to win every race he enters. With the support of his wife, running as a Master has been the best thing that could have happened to Colin. His current goals include medaling at the Foot Locker South XC 5k as well as meeting the USATF All-American standard for his age group.
Colin started running when he was 13 years old. He had a very successful high school career, and took his talents to the next level at Christopher Newport University in the early 80’s. His biggest achievement was winning the 10,000 meters at conference as a freshman. However, injuries caused him to give up running for a few years, and he got into bodybuilding for about 20 years. At the age of 41, he weighed 200 pounds and bench-pressed 400 pounds. He finally had ankle surgery to correct an old running injury from college, which allowed him to start running again when his two sons, Jake and Luke, started running in middle school. He started coaching cross-country and track at the high school. Colin then started competing again and became hooked. As time progressed, he found at first he wanted to win his age group, then be in the top 10 at a race… but now he wants to win every race he enters. With the support of his wife, running as a Master has been the best thing that could have happened to Colin. His current goals include medaling at the Foot Locker South XC 5k as well as meeting the USATF All-American standard for his age group.
Abby Oliver
Abby works for Foot Levelers and has completed races 5k-marathon. She got into running simply to stay in shape after a basketball career at Hidden Valley High and the University of Richmond. Her goals as a member of RET is to become a faster runner and compete for top spots in local races.
Abby works for Foot Levelers and has completed races 5k-marathon. She got into running simply to stay in shape after a basketball career at Hidden Valley High and the University of Richmond. Her goals as a member of RET is to become a faster runner and compete for top spots in local races.
Andrew Parkins
Andrew’s quote to live by is “I feel alive and well, therefore I run. I run, therefore I feel alive and well.” Aside from running many local races year in and year out, Andrew completed the Boston Marathon in 2011 and boasts a 26.2 personal best of 2:39 from the Chicago Marathon. His other personal bests include a 4:32 mile, 16:05 5k, 33:48 10k, and 1:16 half marathon. Some of Andrew’s biggest achievements include placing 3rd overall in the Hood-To-Coast Relay with Team GE (his place of employment) as well as winning the Salem Half Marathon, MIKRO Half Marathon, Jackson River Scenic Trail Half Marathon, and Race 13.1 Roanoke. Andrew hopes to continue to place high in local races with RET, along with setting more personal bests from 5k to the marathon.
Andrew’s quote to live by is “I feel alive and well, therefore I run. I run, therefore I feel alive and well.” Aside from running many local races year in and year out, Andrew completed the Boston Marathon in 2011 and boasts a 26.2 personal best of 2:39 from the Chicago Marathon. His other personal bests include a 4:32 mile, 16:05 5k, 33:48 10k, and 1:16 half marathon. Some of Andrew’s biggest achievements include placing 3rd overall in the Hood-To-Coast Relay with Team GE (his place of employment) as well as winning the Salem Half Marathon, MIKRO Half Marathon, Jackson River Scenic Trail Half Marathon, and Race 13.1 Roanoke. Andrew hopes to continue to place high in local races with RET, along with setting more personal bests from 5k to the marathon.
Natalie Patterson
Natalie’s running career started in high school where she ran a 5k personal best of 24:31 as a senior. As a college freshman, she began running with her state champion roommate who helped her not only to improve substantially, but to love running and competition. Natalie then began running with Calvin College’s Cross Country and Track teams where she recognized the importance of running and community, and running as a demonstration of faith rather than personal gain. Natalie has run one ultra-marathon, four marathons, three half marathons, and numerous 5ks and 10ks regionally. She recently set a 17-minute personal best of 3:03 in the Richmond Marathon, an accomplishment she was very proud of and hopes to build on in the coming years. Natalie’s passion for running and community is reflected by her volunteer work as a Sole Mate and Running Buddy with Girls on the Run, and as a member of C&C Runners. She hopes to continue to improve as an athlete as a part of the Roanoke Endurance Team, to push the limits of what she feels is possible, and to be an ambassador for the Roanoke / New River Valley region. When Natalie is not running, she enjoys rock climbing, kayaking, hiking, and exploring mountains and wild places.
Natalie’s running career started in high school where she ran a 5k personal best of 24:31 as a senior. As a college freshman, she began running with her state champion roommate who helped her not only to improve substantially, but to love running and competition. Natalie then began running with Calvin College’s Cross Country and Track teams where she recognized the importance of running and community, and running as a demonstration of faith rather than personal gain. Natalie has run one ultra-marathon, four marathons, three half marathons, and numerous 5ks and 10ks regionally. She recently set a 17-minute personal best of 3:03 in the Richmond Marathon, an accomplishment she was very proud of and hopes to build on in the coming years. Natalie’s passion for running and community is reflected by her volunteer work as a Sole Mate and Running Buddy with Girls on the Run, and as a member of C&C Runners. She hopes to continue to improve as an athlete as a part of the Roanoke Endurance Team, to push the limits of what she feels is possible, and to be an ambassador for the Roanoke / New River Valley region. When Natalie is not running, she enjoys rock climbing, kayaking, hiking, and exploring mountains and wild places.
Seth Pennington
Seth doesn't have much of a background with running as a sport, but he's always been super active and most sports he's competed in have involved a fair share of running. This past year Seth decided to start focusing on running, in particular long-distance events such as marathons and ultras. His goals for the upcoming year are to maintain a sub 8:00/mile for the half marathon, complete his first marathon in under 4 hours, and to finish the Infinitus 100 mile ultra in June 2018! Seth is really excited to join the RET because he's had no formal coaching or been around people who could help him in achieving his goals. Seth feels like he can grow as a runner in this environment with the plethora of knowledge and experience within the team.
Seth doesn't have much of a background with running as a sport, but he's always been super active and most sports he's competed in have involved a fair share of running. This past year Seth decided to start focusing on running, in particular long-distance events such as marathons and ultras. His goals for the upcoming year are to maintain a sub 8:00/mile for the half marathon, complete his first marathon in under 4 hours, and to finish the Infinitus 100 mile ultra in June 2018! Seth is really excited to join the RET because he's had no formal coaching or been around people who could help him in achieving his goals. Seth feels like he can grow as a runner in this environment with the plethora of knowledge and experience within the team.
Nathan Perkinson
Nathan is a native Virginian and has loved running around Southwest Virginia for quite a while now. He fell in love with the sport of running early in college when he discovered trail running, which has evolved into a mix of road and trail running over various distances. Most recently, this year Nathan completed his first marathon in April and took home a third place finish in the local “Into the Darkness” 4-mile night trail run in October. Nathan hopes to use his best year of running yet to propel him to new heights in 2017, as he competes in the Mountain Junkies RNUTS trail series. Nathan is currently planning his first year of ultra-marathons in 2018 and looks forward to doing big things with RET on the trails and roads!
Nathan is a native Virginian and has loved running around Southwest Virginia for quite a while now. He fell in love with the sport of running early in college when he discovered trail running, which has evolved into a mix of road and trail running over various distances. Most recently, this year Nathan completed his first marathon in April and took home a third place finish in the local “Into the Darkness” 4-mile night trail run in October. Nathan hopes to use his best year of running yet to propel him to new heights in 2017, as he competes in the Mountain Junkies RNUTS trail series. Nathan is currently planning his first year of ultra-marathons in 2018 and looks forward to doing big things with RET on the trails and roads!
David Rasmussen
David began running competitively in high school. He ran the 800, 4x800, 1600, and 3200 for his high school track team. Splitting his time between football and track, he was never too serious about running in high school. Football seemed to dominate most young athletes’ time in Alabama, and David’s was no different. His best result in high school was a 4th place 1600 finish at the state track meet his senior year, with a time of 4:53. After high school, David continued to run and bike. He would compete in the occasional 5K race with no specific goal in mind. A little over a year ago, David moved to Roanoke and met his wife. She works for the Virginia Beef Council and as part of her job she created Team Beef Virginia. Team Beef VA is a group of athletes who promote beef through healthy lifestyle choices. The group is primarily runners, and since he dabbled in running, David’s wife invited him to join. Running for Team Beef has reinvigorated David’s desire to train, compete, and improve his endurance running. Since joining, he ran the 2016 Blue Ridge Half Marathon and finished 20th overall in 1:40. David recently won the 2016 Growler Gallop 5k with a time of 18:27, and most recently finished the 41st Marine Corps Marathon in a personal best of 3:16. David’s future running goals include running a sub-18:00 5k, qualifying for the Boston Marathon, and continuing to enjoy running for its beauty and simplicity.
David began running competitively in high school. He ran the 800, 4x800, 1600, and 3200 for his high school track team. Splitting his time between football and track, he was never too serious about running in high school. Football seemed to dominate most young athletes’ time in Alabama, and David’s was no different. His best result in high school was a 4th place 1600 finish at the state track meet his senior year, with a time of 4:53. After high school, David continued to run and bike. He would compete in the occasional 5K race with no specific goal in mind. A little over a year ago, David moved to Roanoke and met his wife. She works for the Virginia Beef Council and as part of her job she created Team Beef Virginia. Team Beef VA is a group of athletes who promote beef through healthy lifestyle choices. The group is primarily runners, and since he dabbled in running, David’s wife invited him to join. Running for Team Beef has reinvigorated David’s desire to train, compete, and improve his endurance running. Since joining, he ran the 2016 Blue Ridge Half Marathon and finished 20th overall in 1:40. David recently won the 2016 Growler Gallop 5k with a time of 18:27, and most recently finished the 41st Marine Corps Marathon in a personal best of 3:16. David’s future running goals include running a sub-18:00 5k, qualifying for the Boston Marathon, and continuing to enjoy running for its beauty and simplicity.
Matt Rich
Matt is originally from Stafford, VA, and competes in running as well as triathlon and duathlon events. Most recently, he completed the Louisville Ironman Triathlon. Some of Matt’s accomplishments as an endurance athlete include 3rd overall in the Anthem 10k, 1st overall at the Smith Mountain Lake Sprint Triathlon, 1st overall at the Jefferson Cup Triathlon, and 1st overall in the Backpack 5k. His future goals include top finishes in more local running races, as well as top 5 at age group nationals in the Olympic distance triathlon.
Matt is originally from Stafford, VA, and competes in running as well as triathlon and duathlon events. Most recently, he completed the Louisville Ironman Triathlon. Some of Matt’s accomplishments as an endurance athlete include 3rd overall in the Anthem 10k, 1st overall at the Smith Mountain Lake Sprint Triathlon, 1st overall at the Jefferson Cup Triathlon, and 1st overall in the Backpack 5k. His future goals include top finishes in more local running races, as well as top 5 at age group nationals in the Olympic distance triathlon.
Bob Rimkis
Along with being a 2-time Olympic Trials qualifier, Bob has been an active and competitive runner since 1975. He is extremely passionate about the sport and loves to spread that enthusiasm to runners of various backgrounds, levels, ages and abilities. Bob believes that one of his biggest strengths as a runner is his internal drive and love of racing. He runs daily for fun, livelihood, and also to be a better person and a role model to others. Bob is not one to be deterred by variables such as terrain or weather. He looks at each race as an opportunity for success and building character. Bob's plan for this year is to remain highly competitive and return to high-level national caliber competition. He enjoys racing locally as well, as he feels like being part of a community is essential for being a runner. Bob is looking to do big things as a member of the Roanoke Endurance Team!
Along with being a 2-time Olympic Trials qualifier, Bob has been an active and competitive runner since 1975. He is extremely passionate about the sport and loves to spread that enthusiasm to runners of various backgrounds, levels, ages and abilities. Bob believes that one of his biggest strengths as a runner is his internal drive and love of racing. He runs daily for fun, livelihood, and also to be a better person and a role model to others. Bob is not one to be deterred by variables such as terrain or weather. He looks at each race as an opportunity for success and building character. Bob's plan for this year is to remain highly competitive and return to high-level national caliber competition. He enjoys racing locally as well, as he feels like being part of a community is essential for being a runner. Bob is looking to do big things as a member of the Roanoke Endurance Team!
Sabra Robitaille
Sabra started out as a gymnast as a child but got into running in middle school. Once she ended her 10-year career as a gymnast, she became more involved in running. She ran cross country and track in high school and has since participated in multiple 5k, 10k, half marathon, and marathon races. Sabra wanted to push herself further so she decided to run the Blue Ridge Double Marathon in 2013. She also ran the Mountain Masochist 50 mile trail race that same year. Since then, Sabra has backed off ultra marathons to focus on shorter races. Once she had her son in 2015, she decided to involve him in races and has realized that pushing a stroller could be its own sport.
Sabra started out as a gymnast as a child but got into running in middle school. Once she ended her 10-year career as a gymnast, she became more involved in running. She ran cross country and track in high school and has since participated in multiple 5k, 10k, half marathon, and marathon races. Sabra wanted to push herself further so she decided to run the Blue Ridge Double Marathon in 2013. She also ran the Mountain Masochist 50 mile trail race that same year. Since then, Sabra has backed off ultra marathons to focus on shorter races. Once she had her son in 2015, she decided to involve him in races and has realized that pushing a stroller could be its own sport.
Emily Thompson
Emily is a graduate student at Virginia Tech-Carilion Research Institute. She began running consistently in the beginning of 2016 as an outlet for stress-relief and as a way to meet people after relocating to the area. Her first experience of racing at the Anthem Star 10K in 2016, combined with the supportive running community here in Roanoke, motivated her to pursue the sport more seriously. Since then she has competed in races of varying distance from the 5K up to the half-marathon. She plans to finish 2017 with three half-marathons under her belt, a stepping-stone to running her first marathon in the spring of 2018. As part of the Roanoke Endurance Team, she hopes to continue setting new PRs in all distances, while competing for the top spots in her age group in local races. She would also like to work more trail running into her running routine and has plans to participate in the local RNUTS race series in 2018.
Emily is a graduate student at Virginia Tech-Carilion Research Institute. She began running consistently in the beginning of 2016 as an outlet for stress-relief and as a way to meet people after relocating to the area. Her first experience of racing at the Anthem Star 10K in 2016, combined with the supportive running community here in Roanoke, motivated her to pursue the sport more seriously. Since then she has competed in races of varying distance from the 5K up to the half-marathon. She plans to finish 2017 with three half-marathons under her belt, a stepping-stone to running her first marathon in the spring of 2018. As part of the Roanoke Endurance Team, she hopes to continue setting new PRs in all distances, while competing for the top spots in her age group in local races. She would also like to work more trail running into her running routine and has plans to participate in the local RNUTS race series in 2018.
Alyssa Vassallo
Alyssa is a first-year medical student at Virginia Tech Carilion with aims to compete at the 2020 US Olympic Trials in the marathon.
Originally from New Jersey, where she ran high school cross country and track, Alyssa earned various All-State, All-County, All-Conference, and All-Academic honors throughout her high school career. She was a two-time NJSIAA State Sectional Champion and achieved Foot Locker First-Team honors in the All-Northeast Senior Girls Division. Additionally, Alyssa broke school records in the 5K (cross country), Distance Medley, 4 x 1600, and Pole Vault relay.
From 2012 to 2015, Alyssa attended college at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. During the 2013 cross country season, she placed second at NIRCA Southeast Regionals and fourth at Nationals. The following year, she won the Southeast Region Championships and placed fifth at Nationals, becoming a two-time All-American. Alyssa graduated with a double major in Chemistry and Exercise and Sport Science.
In 2015, Alyssa signed with Salming USA and ran for the Garden State Track Club. The following year, she joined the Saucony Hurricane Elite Team but struggled with injury. After several metatarsal stress fractures, she took an extended period of time off from running but definitely not from endurance training. Alyssa found cycling as a great alternative to fill the void running left. Alyssa is now slowly building a base, with eventual plans to return to the marathon, but she is temporarily focusing on 5K to half marathon distances. her short-term goals are to break 17:45 in a road race 5K and stay healthy!
Alyssa is a first-year medical student at Virginia Tech Carilion with aims to compete at the 2020 US Olympic Trials in the marathon.
Originally from New Jersey, where she ran high school cross country and track, Alyssa earned various All-State, All-County, All-Conference, and All-Academic honors throughout her high school career. She was a two-time NJSIAA State Sectional Champion and achieved Foot Locker First-Team honors in the All-Northeast Senior Girls Division. Additionally, Alyssa broke school records in the 5K (cross country), Distance Medley, 4 x 1600, and Pole Vault relay.
From 2012 to 2015, Alyssa attended college at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. During the 2013 cross country season, she placed second at NIRCA Southeast Regionals and fourth at Nationals. The following year, she won the Southeast Region Championships and placed fifth at Nationals, becoming a two-time All-American. Alyssa graduated with a double major in Chemistry and Exercise and Sport Science.
In 2015, Alyssa signed with Salming USA and ran for the Garden State Track Club. The following year, she joined the Saucony Hurricane Elite Team but struggled with injury. After several metatarsal stress fractures, she took an extended period of time off from running but definitely not from endurance training. Alyssa found cycling as a great alternative to fill the void running left. Alyssa is now slowly building a base, with eventual plans to return to the marathon, but she is temporarily focusing on 5K to half marathon distances. her short-term goals are to break 17:45 in a road race 5K and stay healthy!
Bobby Walkiewicz
Bobby is a Roanoke native who now lives in Salem. He began running in May of 2015 to improve his fitness. Before then, Bobby mostly biked and occasionally hiked. He ran his first race, a 5k, in July of 2015 and really enjoyed the atmosphere and camaraderie among the runners. Since then, Bobby has participated in a number of 5ks, half marathons, and marathons. He has been lucky enough to place well in his age group, but hopes to work his way up to the top 3 overall in local races. Bobby's current goal is to work on his endurance and complete a double marathon in the next few months. He has really enjoyed running with people who share the same passion and interests and enjoys learning from others how to improve his form, pace, and overall fitness.
Bobby is a Roanoke native who now lives in Salem. He began running in May of 2015 to improve his fitness. Before then, Bobby mostly biked and occasionally hiked. He ran his first race, a 5k, in July of 2015 and really enjoyed the atmosphere and camaraderie among the runners. Since then, Bobby has participated in a number of 5ks, half marathons, and marathons. He has been lucky enough to place well in his age group, but hopes to work his way up to the top 3 overall in local races. Bobby's current goal is to work on his endurance and complete a double marathon in the next few months. He has really enjoyed running with people who share the same passion and interests and enjoys learning from others how to improve his form, pace, and overall fitness.
Patrick Woodford
Patrick started running in middle school after getting inspiration from his older sister, Natalie. Natalie was a track star throughout middle and high school and into her college years, mostly competing in 100m, 200m, and 400m races. Pat saw her success as something he could achieve and was inspired by her accomplishments as an athlete. However, he was no natural to the sport. Pat remembers starting out for the first time and barely being able to run a mile on the track without walking. It took him a while to get the hang of things and start having the type of dedication that it takes to succeed in running. After improving his mile time from 5:20 to 4:38 freshman to sophomore year of high school, Pat started setting his goals even higher. He finished high school with school records in the mile (4:19), 2-mile (9:17), and 5k (15:53). Pat went on to Virginia Tech and ran on the varsity cross-country and track teams for a couple years, achieving personal bests of 15:06 for 5k and 25:27 for 8k cross-country before realizing that the team wasn’t the direction he wanted to take with his running. After about a year off, Pat started running again for fun, and about a year later he was training for his first marathon, the Blue Ridge Marathon. He placed 2nd overall with a time of 2:56:50 in “America’s Toughest Road Marathon”, one of his proudest accomplishments to this day. Pat has since set personal bests from the mile (4:04) to 50k (4:07:23), and looks to improve on his marathon best of 2:41 at the Boston Marathon in April 2017. One of Pat’s favorite parts about running is the camaraderie and friendships that are built, a core value and reason behind him deciding to found and lead the Roanoke Endurance Team.
Patrick started running in middle school after getting inspiration from his older sister, Natalie. Natalie was a track star throughout middle and high school and into her college years, mostly competing in 100m, 200m, and 400m races. Pat saw her success as something he could achieve and was inspired by her accomplishments as an athlete. However, he was no natural to the sport. Pat remembers starting out for the first time and barely being able to run a mile on the track without walking. It took him a while to get the hang of things and start having the type of dedication that it takes to succeed in running. After improving his mile time from 5:20 to 4:38 freshman to sophomore year of high school, Pat started setting his goals even higher. He finished high school with school records in the mile (4:19), 2-mile (9:17), and 5k (15:53). Pat went on to Virginia Tech and ran on the varsity cross-country and track teams for a couple years, achieving personal bests of 15:06 for 5k and 25:27 for 8k cross-country before realizing that the team wasn’t the direction he wanted to take with his running. After about a year off, Pat started running again for fun, and about a year later he was training for his first marathon, the Blue Ridge Marathon. He placed 2nd overall with a time of 2:56:50 in “America’s Toughest Road Marathon”, one of his proudest accomplishments to this day. Pat has since set personal bests from the mile (4:04) to 50k (4:07:23), and looks to improve on his marathon best of 2:41 at the Boston Marathon in April 2017. One of Pat’s favorite parts about running is the camaraderie and friendships that are built, a core value and reason behind him deciding to found and lead the Roanoke Endurance Team.