Matthew Brooks, Runner

40; Chief Strategy Officer for Mid South Group: Tenet Healthcare @ St. Francis Hospital; Volunteer for National MS Society

FAMILY: Jenna Brooks and three children.

HOMETOWN: Kankakee, Illinois.

I f RUNNING: I love the camaraderie amongst runners regardless of place and time. Someone is always cheering you on in this sport. I also enjoy the challenge of pushing my body to the limit, both physically and mentally.

BUCKET LIST: I would love to do an international marathon, a full Ironman, and a running event called MS run the US (ultra relay).

UP NEXT: Grandma’s Marathon 2023

FAVE FITNESS ACCOMPLISHMENT: Running in the Boston Marathon and running a 2:39 marathon time for Grandma’s Marathon.

RECENT EVENTS:

Dallas Marathon – 2:46

Halle Neighborhood 5k – 17:50 (1st place)

Ice Age Trail 50 Miler – 7:29 (7th place)

FAVORITE JAMS: 90s and early 2000s Pop

MOST MEMORABLE FITNESS EVENT: Running my first ultra-marathon (50-mile at Tunnel Hill) and coming away with a win at 6 hours, 20 minutes.

BINGE-WATCHING: College basketball!

BEST EATS: I like salmon and old fashion bourbon from Moondance.

DREAM DINNER COMPANY: David Goggins because he is the epitome and perfect example of mental toughness.

GO-TO GEAR: Brooks running shoes, a Garmin watch, Goodr sunglasses, and a headlamp.

INSPIRATION TO BE FIT: I want to set a positive example for my children. I believe that the healthier I am, the better dad and husband I’ll be.

PET PEEVE: I don’t like getting ready to go for a run, and then it starts raining!

ON MY NIGHTSTAND: “Tools Of Titans: The Tactics, Routines, and Habits of Billionaires, Icons, and World-Class Performers” by Timothy Ferriss

FAV INDULGENCE: I enjoy a deep dish Chicago pizza from Lou Malnati’s.

QUOTE: “Never give up.” - unknown