every runner has a story

Meet Chris Baker

► From: Lake Wales, FL
► Started Running: 2019, at age 40
► Lakeland Runners Club 2022 Training Committee Chair

Little did  Chris Baker know running was going to turn into a new lifeand totally change his life. He is in the best shape of his life now and he and his wife Kim have made some of the best friends through the Lakeland running community.

What is your favorite thing about being connected to LRC? 

I am very proud that LRC puts on great events that accommodate runners of every pace and it’s all done 100% by volunteers. There really is no judgment. Just other people who love running, cheering each other on. 

Why do you serve on the LRC board? 

It means a lot to me to see kids, adults, faster runners, slower runners, all just getting out and moving. I love the programs and group runs that LRC provides to the community. I think they are the best part of the club. 

What is your favorite running memory? 

My favorite running memory is running the last mile and half of the 2020 Rotary Twilight 5k, neck and neck with Jose Almaraz.  We had the best race and really pushed each other hard all the way to the finish line. 

What is something most people don’t know about you? 

In 2018 I was 70 pounds overweight and could hardly bend over and tie my shoes. I made the decision to get in better shape. Kim and I started out walking Lake Hollingsworth.  Eventually I started running a little at a time, until I got up to a continuous mile. From there I just kept going. Anyone can do it. You just got to get up and start moving.  

 

Share This Post

Share on facebook
Share on linkedin
Share on twitter
Share on email

More To Explore

Meet Rhonda Fosser

March is Women’s History Month and one of the women that will live on in the history of the Lakeland Runners Club is Rhonda Fosser. In her 70s she is still running a 24-minute 5k.

Read More »

Meet Rob Mason

Rob Mason is the only person to complete all 46 Lake to Lake 10ks. He’s made so many friends and traveled so many miles. He’s done 26 marathons and a few triathlons. He met his life partner Linda Snavely at the 2007 Aching Quad race, and they have since run in 28 countries around the world. His home is full of memorabilia from all his adventures.

Read More »

Meet Jan Mohler

Running was a surprise gift for Jan Mohler. A tragic loss for a co-worker led Jan to volunteer and raise funds for the Leukemia Society which lead to a meeting with a Team in Training and LRC running coach. 20 years and a bunch of adventures later, and Jan is still lifting others’ spirits with a smile and encouragement.

Read More »

Meet Abby Rowzee

After escaping the bitter winters of the Northeast and moving to Lakeland in 2018, Abby recognized how large and active the running community is in Lakeland. That recognition led directly to a decision to take up running for the first time. And, as we all have learned or will learn, getting started is the hardest part.

Read More »
Meet Chris Baker
X