Mark Olateju the Picture Guy: How One Runner's Camera Became White Rock Lake's Memory Keeper
In this captivating episode of DFW Running Talk, host Chris Detzel sits down with Mark Olateju (affectionately known as "Mark O" to those who struggle with his last name), the beloved photographer who has been documenting the Dallas running community for over two decades. Mark's journey from a reluctant 8K participant lured by free breakfast to a sub-3:09 marathoner is as unexpected as it is inspiring.
Discover how a principal's promise of homemade breakfast sparked a running career that would span 640+ races. Mark opens up about his transformation from a "5K expert" who raced every weekend to a dedicated distance runner training at 3 AM with partners like Shaheen Satar. His story takes fascinating turns through trail running and 50-milers, all while maintaining his philosophy that "ignorance is bliss" when it comes to racing.
But Mark's true legacy lies behind the lens. Known throughout White Rock Lake and beyond as "the picture guy," he's captured thousands of moments - from triumphant PRs to those less-flattering mid-race grimaces that runners initially complained about but now treasure as authentic memories. His slow-motion videos helped runners analyze their form, though not everyone appreciated seeing their "jiggly parts" highlighted.
The conversation takes a poignant turn as Mark discusses his recent transition from competitive running following a complete knee replacement, his current focus on weightlifting and low-impact training, and his continued dedication to preserving running memories through photography. He shares the mysterious "Twilight Zone" race where runners inexplicably walked through one section of the course, memorable encounters with future Boston qualifiers, and watching his 13-year-old student casually drop a 1:27 half marathon.
This episode captures the heart of running community - the bonds formed at 4 AM training runs, the evolution from beginner to mentor, and how one person's passion for capturing moments has become an invaluable gift to an entire running community.
Creators and Guests
Host
Chris Detzel
As a seasoned technology leader with over 20 years of experience, I specialize in building and nurturing thriving communities both running and technical
Guest
Mark Olateju
Mark Olateju has been a cornerstone of the Dallas-Fort Worth running community for over two decades. Known affectionately as "Mark O" or "the Picture Guy," Mark began his running journey in 2004-2005 with an 8K race at Travis McKinney school, motivated by his principal's promise of a home-cooked breakfast for participating staff. What started as treadmill running evolved into a passion that would see Mark complete over 640 races throughout his career, averaging 50 races per year during his peak decade. A self-proclaimed "5K expert" in his early years, Mark made an unexpected leap to marathon distance, running his first 26.2-mile race in basketball shorts and a durag—finishing with an impressive 3:08:59 time that remains his personal best. Mark's dedication to training was legendary, waking up at 3 AM for years to run with training partners like Shaheen Satar and Susanna. His consistent 40-45 mile weeks kept him "half-marathon ready" year-round, leading to sub-1:30 half marathon times and Boston Qualifying performances at Houston and Huntington Beach marathons. Beyond road racing, Mark ventured into ultra-trail running, completing 50K and 50-mile distances at events like Rocky Raccoon and Possum Kingdom. He holds a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas A&M Commerce, which he completed over eight years while balancing teaching and training. After a knee replacement ended his competitive running career two and a half years ago, Mark transitioned seamlessly into his role as the community's unofficial photographer and memory keeper. Armed with his camera and phone, he can be found at White Rock Lake, Bachman Lake, and races throughout DFW, capturing thousands of moments and helping document the journeys of countless runners. Today, Mark maintains his fitness through weight training five days a week and low-impact cardio, while continuing to serve as a positive force in the running community—proving that the end of one chapter simply opens the door to another way of contributing to the sport he loves.