It’s been a while since I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing one of our own US TL&D members, because I’ve had a difficult time sniffing out someone new. So, I’m very happy to have had the opportunity to interview Diane Hettinga’s Personal Trainer/Run-Buddy, Charlie the Dog! Let’s “raise the woof” on our normal interviews and see what inspiration he gave, as he growled his answers to my probing questions. No bone was left unturned! [I know… boo, Mike, boo!]
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I have been running for… 8 years (since I was a puppy). I’ve only been able to persuade my mom [Diane] to run for the last 2 years.
I run approximately… I run every day. On the days when I’m not running with my mom, I pull my Dad along as he rides a bike. Last Sunday, we ran 20 miles. The other dogs in the neighborhood are jealous and wonder how they can get in on this running!
I began running so that… I could look good for the female dogs and finally catch my elusive tail!
The reason I chose running to begin in the first place is… I’m a dog – we’re not allowed to go sky diving or play golf – although I really enjoy canoeing!
The best motivation that keeps me running is… Plain and simple… dog snacks! When I run a long time, my mom keeps snacks in her pocket for me – I try and sniff them out or stop in the middle of the road and sit, but she pretty much ignores that. When she gets water or snacks, then I do too. I especially love the “power bones” – they’re for dogs – kind of like how gels are for people.
The best gear I have found is… my leash, because… it means we’re going for a run! I’m really against wearing anything else, as my mom found out way back when we went to puppy school. She puts something on me and I try to bite the clothes or her!
My greatest accomplishment in this area so far is… I am excellent at finding where the water bottles are hidden along the trail – check out my snout in the picture above!
My goal is to… keep my mom running strong and to look cute to help her raise money for the Ronald McDonald House Charities. On that note, please click with your paw HERE to donate to the charity through her page.
My favorite song list that really gets me running is… “Who Let the Dogs Out” by the Baha Men, “Big Dog Daddy” by Toby Keith, “Hound Dog” by Elvis Presley or anything by Snoop Dog or Three Dog Night!
If I could give 3 pieces of great advice for other, newer runners, it would be… 1) Check your “P” mail often & don’t forget to reply; 2) Communication is key: when my mom doesn’t seem to pay attention, I just bite the bottom of her shorts until she notices; 3) Stop every now and then to sniff, but stay away from the skunks!
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Wow! Now THAT is what I call a tail-wagging interview!
Yours in fun fitness, Mike
FunFitTeam 