975 Days and Counting: Andy Wang on Running Streaks, Race Directing, and Community
In this episode of DFW Running Talk, you (Chris Detzel) hosted Andy Wang, the race director of the Fort Worth Marathon. The conversation provided an in-depth look at Andy's running journey, his race directing experiences, and his impressive personal achievements in the running community.
Andy's Running Background
Andy shared that he began his fitness journey in 2007 when he joined friends training with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Interestingly, he started with triathlons before focusing more on running. He completed his first half marathon around 2007 with the Dallas Running Club. Andy mentioned dealing with common running injuries early in his journey, including IT band issues and a stress fracture.
The Running Streak
One of the most notable aspects of the conversation was Andy's impressive running streak. At the time of recording, he was on day 975 of his consecutive running streak that began during the COVID pandemic. He averages an astonishing 10 miles per day, having logged over 3,650 miles annually for the past four years. Despite a minor hamstring issue that briefly interrupted a previous streak, he's remained consistent and injury-free.
Race Director Experience
Andy detailed his involvement with the Fort Worth Marathon, which celebrated its 18th year in 2024. He initially volunteered for several years before stepping into the race director role in 2023. He shared insights about:
- The various race distances (marathon, half marathon, 20-miler, and relay)
- Challenges faced, including stolen course signs and portable toilet logistics
- Plans to expand to a two-day event with 5K and 10K races on Saturday and longer distances on Sunday
Hell's Half Acre Marathon
Andy also discussed his role as race director for the Hell's Half Acre Marathon, a night race in Trinity Park that evolved from the popular El Scorcho event. This unique race starts at night, with participants experiencing cooler temperatures as they run deeper into the night. He mentioned the race's history and the distinct atmosphere that makes it special.
World Marathon Majors
Andy revealed he's running two Abbott World Marathon Majors in 2025 - Tokyo in March and New York in November. Upon completion, he'll have finished five of the six major marathons.
Downhill Races
You both shared experiences about downhill races, including Revel races like Mount Charleston and Big Cottonwood, discussing the dramatic PRs these courses can produce and the intense muscle soreness that follows.
Pacing Experience
Andy discussed his extensive experience as a pacer with Beast Pacing, having helped many runners achieve their time goals at various events across DFW and beyond.
The conversation concluded with reflections on memorable running experiences, with Andy mentioning a 35-mile Dallas to Fort Worth adventure run and the satisfaction he gets from helping others achieve their running goals.
Creators and Guests
Host
Chris Detzel
As a seasoned technology leader with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in building and nurturing thriving technical communities, driving data-driven strategies, and fostering executive engagement. Currently, I'm leading ZoomInfo's community-building efforts from the ground up, developing innovative programs to enhance user engagement and drive business growth.
Guest
Andy Wang
# Background of Andy Wang Andy Wang is the Executive Race Director of the Fort Worth Marathon, bringing a wealth of running experience and community involvement to the role. His journey in the running world began around 2007 when he joined friends training with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, initially focusing on triathlons before transitioning more toward running. With nearly 15 years of involvement with the Fort Worth Marathon organization, Andy stepped into the race director position in 2023 after years of volunteering and supporting the event in various capacities. His dedication to the running community extends beyond this single event - he also directs the Hell's Half Acre Marathon and Half Marathon, a unique night race in Trinity Park, as well as the Pi Day 5K. Andy's personal running accomplishments are impressive. At the time of the podcast recording, he was on day 975 of a consecutive running streak, averaging an extraordinary 10 miles per day and logging over 3,650 miles annually for the past four years. He's also an accomplished marathon runner who has completed four of the six Abbott World Marathon Majors, with Tokyo and New York scheduled to complete his collection. Beyond his own running achievements, Andy is dedicated to supporting other runners as a regular pacer for approximately 15 races annually with Beast Pacing. His approach to running and race organization focuses on building community and creating positive experiences for participants of all levels. # About The Fort Worth Marathon The Fort Worth Marathon is a premier running event offering Half, Full, and 20 Mile distances! Participants enjoy numerous benefits including: - Supportive pace groups for achieving time goals - Free comprehensive training plans - Custom-designed finisher medals - Personalized race bibs - The region's best post-race celebration featuring delicious food, craft beer, live music, and prize drawings Under Andy Wang's leadership, the event has expanded to a two-day format, with 5K and 10K races added to the weekend lineup, creating more opportunities for runners of all abilities to participate in this celebrated community event.