WEEKEND WARRIOR
Interview by Hailey Thomas Photo by Tindall Stephens
Troy Tabor, Runner 66, Retired fighter pilot for the US Air Force and retired pilot for FedEx, Volunteer Library Assistant at Saint Ann Catholic School
NEWBIE: I started running races when I was 56 about 10 years ago.
BRAGGING RIGHTS: This year I finished 2nd place in my age group at the Germantown Half Marathon, and last year I was first in the same race for my age group. 2019 M-Town series 1st place age group. 2018 St. Jude Half Marathon 2nd place senior masters and 2017 3rd place Half Marathon senior masters.
FAVORITE FITNESS ACCOMPLISHMENT: Running my first marathon at the Marine Corps Marathon at age 56.
MOST MEMORABLE RUN: Running down Boylston Street approaching the finish line for the Boston Marathon (2015, 2016, 2018) with the crowd cheering.
VIRTUAL RUNNING: I ran the Stay at Home 5K, a birthday present from my daughter, and I am running the virtual New York City Marathon.
COVID CANCELLATIONS: I was scheduled to run the Viking Half Marathon, Chicago Marathon, and the New York City Marathon.
MOTIVATION: I want to be healthy and productive in my retirement years and set an example of healthy living for my family and my grandchildren.
INSPIRATION: I’m most inspired by John Kelley. He ran the Boston Marathon 61 times. He was 84 years old when he ran it the last time
OBSTACLE COURSE: I was a smoker for 20 years, so I never imagined running much less winning a race.
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“My goal is to run the Boston Marathon when I’m 75 years old.” RUNNER’S HIGH: I’ve met many people and have developed friendships all over the world.
BEST EATS: Frieda’s Mexican restaurant at Carriage Crossing Mall is the best Mexican food in town. Their King Steak Burrito is awesome.
SLUSH CRUSH: Sonic diet cherry limeade.
DESERTED ISLAND TUNES: I would just lay on the beach and listen to big band music from the 1940s.
SPIRIT ANIMAL: It would have to be a grizzly bear. They are strong and tough in all conditions.
PERSONAL MANTRA: Never give up! I’ve never been in a race that I didn’t finish.
TO NOMINATE A WEEKEND WARRIOR, EMAIL HAILEY@MEMPHISHEALTHANDFITNESS.COM
