Name: Drew Prescott
Town: Lebanon, NH

Where are you from originally and what brought you to this area?
I grew up in Southern NH. My parents are from Lebanon and moved back to the area a few years ago along with my brother and sister-in-law. I moved to Lebanon last fall to be closer to family and because I loved spending time in the Upper Valley growing up.

What do you do professionally?
I’m a Software Engineer at a biotech company in Lebanon called Adimab.

How long have you been running?
I ran track when I was younger but competed primarily in sprinting/middle distance events. I got into distance running in college to stay in shape after I stopped playing sports.

How long have you been running competitively?
Besides the occasional race for fun nowadays, I haven’t run competitively since high school.

Why do you run?
I think running is a great way to stay in shape physically and mentally. Nothing beats spending time out in nature exercising and getting fresh air. It’s also a great way to meet other people in the community who enjoy spending time outside and being active.

Recent memorable moment while running?
I ran as a pacer for a couple races last year. It was such an amazing feeling helping others make it through the race and reach their goals.

Best athletic accomplishment and why?
Completing the 48 4k footers. My dad and I hiked them all together and it was a really neat experience to share with him.

If you like to race, favorite race distance? Why?
Probably marathons even though I’ve only done one so far. Although, I’m looking at running an ultra this year, which I’m hoping will be my new favorite. I enjoy the mental and physical challenge of running long endurance races.

If you like to race, notable race moment? OR most memorable race?
The first half marathon I ever ran, I did no training leading up to the race and was completely exhausted by the end but they had Boston Cream donuts in the food tent and it was one of the best things I’ve ever eaten.

Training partners?
My dog Harper, my dad, and my parents’ dog Pemi. Also, the many friends I’ve made through the UVRC at TNT and the Saturday morning group runs.

Cross training activities? 
Nordic skiing in the winter, biking when the snow is gone, calisthenics, and yoga.

Favorite local running route?
The Lebanon rail trail.

Favorite post run treat?
Ice cream. Harper and I always stop for ice cream after any big running trips.

Strangest place ever run?
I did some runs with incredible scenery that I’ve never seen anywhere else when I visited New Zealand.

Any notable streaks or other unusual running events?
No.

What made you start running?
I initially ran track in middle/high school as a way to compete and push myself physically. I started distance running as a way to stay in shape after I stopped playing sports in college.

Who is your running “idol”? 
My dad. He always ran a lot when I was growing up and was the one that made me want to get into distance running.

Are your reasons for running now the same or different than the reason you first started?
I still run as a way to stay in shape but I’ve also found it is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and meet other people who also enjoy spending time outdoors.

Why did you join UVRC?
My parents convinced me to go to one of the group runs with them and I met so many nice people, I’ve been going ever since. 

Ever run in a costume?
No

The only running shoe for me is ______________________. 
I actually like to mix up my running shoe model and brand fairly often. I usually wear whatever shoe I can find that is a couple of model years old and on sale.

Ever been injured? How did it happen?
Nothing serious but the week before my first marathon, I stubbed my toe on my coffee table so hard that the whole toe turned black and blue and the toenail fell off. It made for a bit more challenging of a race than I had initially planned for.

Hot or cold weather runner?
Definitely cold weather. You can always put more layers on but there are only so many layers you can take off.

Morning or evening runner?
Morning runner. I love starting the day with a run.

What is your motivation?
It helps me feel healthy physically and mentally and is a great way to spend time with other people who share similar interests.

I run therefore I ______________________.
am in a bad mood when I don’t get my daily run in.

How did you become interested in running?
My parents have always been runners and were the ones who originally got me interested in running.
What is your favorite race?
The Mount Desert Island marathon. It was the first marathon I ever ran and was a beautiful course.

Favorite running book/film?
Eat and Run by Scott Jurek.

What does your daily workout consist of?
Usually a run of at least a few miles with my dog followed by an hour of yoga or calisthenics.

How about favorite work out?
I like a lot of variety in my workouts, so I don’t have a single favorite.

What is your diet like?
I primarily eat a vegetarian diet. Mainly homemade meals consisting of lots of grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables.

If you could run with anyone, who would be the person?
I would go for a run with Joan Benoit. She is from New England and also attended Bowdoin College. I think it would be really interesting to hear about her running career.

Additional input or comments? People to mention?
I’d like to thank all the wonderful UVRC members who have welcomed me into the group and given me so many great running partners and friends.

Aside from running, what are your hobbies?
I love baking. I’ve been baking sourdough bread for almost 10 years now and am baking my way through multiple baking cookbooks.

What question would you like to ask in next month’s Runner Profile? And what is your answer to the question?
If you could go for a run anywhere in the world, where would you go for a run?

I would go back to New Zealand and run all of the “Great Walks” I didn’t get a chance to do the first time I visited.