PFA Updates

Aug 11, 2022

As the Presper Financial Architects team prepares to #RunTheBlueLine, we’re shining the spotlight on each one of our relay team members. First up is financial advisor Dan Garner.

How did you get into running? What's your background in running or other sports?

I started running semi-consistently a few years ago when we began running the Akron Marathon relay as a team. I would never consider myself to be a “runner,” but it’s such a fun event that it makes the effort worthwhile. I played football, baseball and wrestled through high school and have now transitioned to softball, skiing, and snowboarding. The theme in each one of those sports is that there isn’t much long-distance running, so when I’m looking around the corrals before the Marathon it’s not a surprise that I don’t see many, or any, people with the same body shape as me.

How has your training been going? Highs and lows?

My training has been pretty consistent this year, and I feel like I’ll be prepared come race day. My primary workout is with a group called F3. It’s always free, always outdoor, whether rain or shine, summer, or winter. The workouts make me feel like I’m back in high school wrestling. I also mix in boxing classes to make sure I’m prepared for my annual Christmas day boxing match against my father. No, I’m not kidding about that one. Then, I usually go on one pure run each week, and I’m still convinced that the “runner’s high” people talk about is a marketing scheme from the shoe companies because I’ve never experienced anything other than a concerning amount of heavy breathing.

What are your favorite songs on your running playlist? What are some of the most surprising songs on that playlist?

I spend way too much time crafting my running playlist because I try to keep it very concise. My favorite part of it is the Introduction to “Joker and the Thief” by Wolfmother. Sometimes I skip the rest of the song once the lyrics start, but I think the intro is excellent. It’s also what gets played right before the start of every Ohio State home football game, so it has some sentimental value for me.

Shoe of choice?

Normally, I prefer Nike for everything, but I like Brooks running shoes better. Last year on the day before the race I learned that I had worn a sizable hole into the sole of my running shoes. I ended up having to run the race in a brand new pair of shoes, which is the exact opposite of what you’re supposed to do. It unsurprisingly led to some nice blisters, so I’m hoping to avoid that mishap this year.

What have you enjoyed most about past races? What are you most excited for? Any other thoughts you'd like to share?

The most enjoyable moment, without a doubt, is when the race is over and we make our way to Lock 3 to have some fun enjoying the festivities. I’m glad we’re participating again this year and look forward to running for a good cause by partnering with the International Institute of Akron.

Want to support our team's cause? Donate through our team captain's Race Roster link!