2020 Boston Marathon Runner Profile: Matt Naffah – framinghamsource.com
2020 Boston Marathon Runner Profile: Matt Naffah framinghamsource.com
Editor’s Note: SOURCE is profiling runners participating in the 2020 Boston Marathon, with ties to Framingham, Ashland, and Natick, including Team Framingham and Team MetroWest YMCA.
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Marathon Team: Metrowest YMCA
Is this your first marathon? Yes
Is this your first Boston Marathon? Yes! Go big or go home!
Why run Boston? I was born in Boston on Marathon Monday! I grew up with it and wouldn’t choose any other city for my first marathon.
Which charity are you raising money for? MetroWest YMCA
Why did you pick that charity? The YMCA has always been a special place for me and my family. When we purchased our first house, we didn’t know anyone in our town. The first thing we did was join our local YMCA. The community at the YMCA gave us a chance to meet new people, engage and of course…stay healthy. Fast forward, so many of our life events have happened at the YMCA. Swim lessons, after school activities… the list goes on and on. I have chosen to fundraise and run with the YMCA because I want to make sure they are able to continue to provide the same opportunities to others as they did for me. The money collected from our fundraising will directly impact local families and will be used specifically for education, families with cancer, those facing hunger, and senior citizens.
Click here to support Matt & the MetroWest YMCA
How did you first get into running? Growing up on the Cape, I used to volunteer at the Falmouth Road Race. About five years ago I started training so I could actually run it. After that, I just continued with it. I have now had the chance to run half marathons, multiple Falmouth Road Races, yearly Feaster Fives, and so on. I also try to use running to set an example for my kids; you can always find time during a busy day to exercise, and goals are attainable with hard work and determination.
Why do you like to run? Running provides me time in the day to really clear my head. It is my chance to collect my thoughts, strategize for the week, reflect and refocus.
Tell me something about your training for the marathon: When you start training everyone has advice. The best I was given so far was to commit to running outside despite the weather. You never know what Boston is going to be like in April so it is important to be ready for all conditions.
What is your favorite cross-training activity: I actually go to Orange Theory two days a week. It has provided me a really great balance to my training schedule. I still get cardio in while also building muscle strength. It also breaks up the routine of training.
How do you stay motivated when you don’t want to run? The hardest part is actually just getting dressed and going outside. Once I start moving, I end up getting motived quickly. I also don’t track my time. I don’t want that to become a factor in my training- at least for this Marathon. Removing that has allowed me to really focus on my form, my breathing and keeping myself motivated as I build up distance.
Music or no music when Running? I mix it up. Some days I listen to music, but I have found Podcasts to really help pass the time.
If music, favorite song? Anything with a fast beat.
What is your favorite pre-running meal? For long runs I usually have pancakes with a little jelly (no syrup).
What is your favorite post-run snack? Chocolate milk.
Tell SOURCE readers something about you that has nothing to do with running: I was named after Matt Siegel from the Matty in the Morning show on Kiss-108.
What shoes will you wear on Marathon day? Brooks Ghost 11 or 12.
What is your goal for the 2020 Boston Marathon? My goal is to finish! My seven year old wants me to win but that’s not going to happen.
Will you wear anything personal or symbolic the day of the 2020 Boston Marathon? My kids are planning to decorate my shoes. My son Lincoln also made me a “best Dad” shirt for Christmas that I plan to wear after the race.
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