Who is Running TD Bank Reedy River Run? - Dave Geer Is.

Over the coming days we will preview the 42nd TD Bank Reedy River Run. Today we have six questions for Clemson's Dave Geer, who will return to the streets of downtown Greenville after winning the race back in 1986. Dave has continued running since then and has numerous South Carolina State Age-Group records at various distances.

How many years have you been running and why did you start?
I started running when I went out for Track in the 9th grade in 1970 so I've been running 49 years. The reason I went out for Track was that when I moved from Pennsylvania to New Jersey in the summer of 1969  after I had signed up for classes the guidance counselor asked me what sport I was going to do as if I had to do one. I was the fastest kid in my grade in the Presidents Physical Fitness Test  600 yard run in Junior High in Pennsylvania and  was told I should go out for Track so when I was asked that question I had my answer. I ran the mile that year in 4:46. I'd like to add too that if we hadn't moved to Jersey I probably never would have run Track. Life is funny that way and running Track changed my life. I never would have gone to college just for starters. 

What is your favorite running experience?
My favorite running experience is when I'm racing or doing a speed workout and I'm hitting on all cylinders, when I'm going fast and feeling strong. I've had many great experiences related to races, teams and accomplishments but the thing that has kept me running all these years is the joy I receive on those special days when you're flying and it feels easy. Even at my age when I'm a lot slower it still happens.

Where is your favorite venue to run locally?
​I live in Clemson and it's a course I run through campus. No traffic and it's lit up in the morning when it's dark. 

Have you run TD Bank Reedy River Run previously?
I ran the first Reedy in 1978 and have run it many times in the past 40 years. I won the race in 1986 in 29:49 on the old course. 

What is your favorite part of the course?
Running through the park along the river where it's flat. I don't miss the old finish up the gut punch hill on Atwood Street just before the finish. 

Why are your running the TD Bank Reedy River Run?
I'm running because it's a great race with good competition and history.   

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