Sports Spotlight - West Orange Times & Observer: Dan Elbert

In addition to having completed several marathons (including the Boston Marathon, twice) and a 50-mile race, Dan Elbert of the Winter Garden Runners is well known in the running community for encouraging others and pushing his limits.

How long ago did you get into running as part of your fitness routine?

I did my first marathon in 2000, and that was my first race.

What was the reasoning to jump right in and run a marathon?

I was a gym rat, and I just wanted to do something else. It was a bet that got me into running — a guy said I couldn’t run a marathon faster than he did, so I said, “Yes, I can.”

Were you surprised by the level of training required to successfully run a marathon?

Yes — the training is the hardest part.

As someone with more of a strength-training background, were you surprised to enjoy running as much as you did?

I was. The weightlifting got to be monotonous after a while. You can run anywhere — it’s something different, and it’s a stress reliever.

How long have you been involved with the Winter Garden Runners?

It’s probably been four or five years that I’ve been part of the Runners. The club has been great — all of them are great people and it’s fun meeting up with them.

What’s the best bit of advice that you’ve gotten pertaining to run?

Have fun with it. You can take it seriously, but don’t take it too seriously where you ruin it.

What are your favorite foodie-spots in West Orange?

I really like First Watch, and I like the Thai restaurant in downtown Winter Garden (Thai Blossom).