Weekend Warriors – Melissa Kath, Runner – Kashif Latif, Runner

Melissa Kath, Runner

42, Plastic Surgeon at Plastic Surgery Group of Memphis

FAMILY: Husband and 19-year-old son, Caldwell

PROUDEST MOMENT: Qualifying for and running the Boston Marathon in 2015 and 2016.

MOST MEMORABLE RACE: My husband and I had a Wedding Day 5K the morning of our wedding, complete with race bibs and age group prizes. Everyone invited to the wedding was invited to the “race”. It was the perfect way to start our celebration.

MOTIVATION: I run so I don’t feel guilty about eating carbs. I love carbs!

UP NEXT: I’m running St. Jude Memphis Marathon with my husband.

MUST-HAVE GEAR: Can’t live without my Garmin watch.

I f RUNNING: It is stress relief. I get to spend alone time with my husband.

ON MY PLAYLIST: Podcast Armchair Expert

BUCKET LIST: Completing the Abbott World Marathon Majors (Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, New York).

SPEED BUMPS: While I feel strong after having a baby last year, finding time to get out and run with a toddler at home is challenging. Pushing a stroller is hard!

BEST EATS: Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen—the AM Breakfast

PET PEEVE: People who don’t share the path/sidewalk

INDULGENCE: Craft beer

Kashif Latif, Runner

54; Medical Director, Practicing Physician & Principal Investigator for research trials at AM Diabetes and Endocrinology Center; Volunteer Medical Director at Camp Hopewell’s Summer Camp for children living with Type 1 diabetes

FAVORITE ACCOMPLISHMENT: Running 8–10 miles a week and completing the St. Jude Half Marathon.

UP NEXT: The 15th Annual Sugar Run 5K and St. Jude Memphis Marathon.

MOTIVATION: I am a medical doctor, and I encourage my patients to be physically fit. It is only natural for me to practice what I preach about health, wellness, and fitness.

GO-TO GEAR: Swiss-engineered performance running shoes and clothing. Uncompromising on cushioning and impact protection. Unmatched on feeling and fun.

THE WORKOUT I’LL NEVER FORGET: Working out with Anthony Travis, Extreme Fitness Trainer at AM 360 Fitness

FAVORITE JAMS: Fly Like an Eagle and Crazy by Seal

I f RUNNING: It can lead you to new places, introduce you to new people, and help you make unforgettable memories. I enjoy the exhilaration of running and the thrill of completing the course.

BUCKET LIST: Finish the full St. Jude Marathon.

BEST EATS: I love Erling Jensen, and he orders meat that I can eat from a special farm. The desserts are delicious.

DREAM DINNER COMPANY: Dean Karnazes is the most famous ultrarunner in the world. Known for pushing the limits of endurance, has accomplished many amazing running feats. In 2005, he ran 350 miles without sleeping in just 80 hours and 44 minutes.

ON MY NIGHTSTAND: Born to Run. It’s a classic running book, not to mention a page-turner that is absolutely a must-read for the avid runner.

PET PEEVE: Races are one of the few places where it’s okay to throw your trash on the ground, but that doesn’t mean you can throw it anywhere, anytime.

CROSS-TRAIN: I enjoy the art of yoga and tia chi.