SCOTT SCHALLBERG, 45
Packer at Anderson Packaging

I have been running for one year.

I started running because I am a type 2 diabetic and exercise helps keep it under control. My doctor loves my blood work after I finish a race.

If I could no longer run I would die from boredom. Even though I am not fast, it is a good feeling every time I am in a race. I like the flushed out feeling I get.

My favorite run is the Goldie Floberg run in Roscoe. It was only 5 miles but that was far enough for me. I liked the nice even path there as compared to the trail runs which get rugged. I enjoy things like the Thin Mint Sprint also.

I like to run with people at Bally's  where I do aerobics and the treadmill. I am also on the bike path when it is not wintertime. As I get faster I will get into the Buddy Group in the future. It is nice to exercise with others also because I get pushed farther than if I was by myself. That's why it is worthwhile to get involved in the races when I have the time off.

I have a black cat named Salem.

My favorite thing to do after a hard workout is is to take a warm shower and watch TV or relax.

When I am not running I like to surf the internet and relax and also I help and volunteer with other races in the club because we need volunteers to keep things going so everyone can race when they like!

I am inspired by many people both young and old. I never realized how big this was till I got into it myself. I wish I had started running as a kid but my family members are not runners.

An obstacle or challenge that I have overcome with my running is that I keep my type 2 diabetes under control and as I get faster I hope to be diabetic by diet someday.

Running makes me feel good as it flushes out my system and makes me feel better as I am able to do more. It helps me at work also because I can do more and I have fewer trips to the dentist, because with regular exercise I eat less. The combination keeps my teeth healthier. Years ago I never figured I would be in this group, but I have a charismatic doctor who pushes exercise!! So, I listened to him and here I am!

The local runner I admire most is Jim Dunkel. He is an example of what you can do as one gets older when you are physically fit. I hope to be the Rockford Road Runner of the Year someday when I am in much better shape. It is a long term goal of mine.

To push myself on a run, I look at my watch and see where I am and then think about the treats at the end of the race!!

My greatest running accomplishment is the Goldie Floberg run. It is my farthest race so far. Yes it is only 5 miles but I liked the course up there in Roscoe and the pancakes afterwards were nice too. When it was over I was soaked with sweat and ready for a nap!!

My next goal is the Half Marathon on May 18. To get ready for that I will be doing aerobics and yoga twice a week and be out on the bikepath twice a week also and as the weather is better I hope to put a lot of miles on so I can finish strong in this event and eventually do the Hobo run in the fall or a Marathon someday.

Keep on going!!!

I Plan to run till I die!!