Meet The Confluence Running Team- Chris
Next up on our Confluence Running Team is the one and only Chris Cowden or around the community known as “Confluence Chris” Chris has been an integral member of Confluence Running right from the start, providing lots of humor and order over the years. When not at Confluence Running you can find him coaching one of his many athletes, running all the trails, or relaxing by the pond with his family and dog.
CR: How and why did you begin running?
I decided to try Cross Country in my Junior year of high school and absolutely fell in love with the sport. So, I ran Cross for my last two years of high school and kept running when I graduated and went into the Army.
CR: What does a typical day look like for you and are you currently working on anything?
I usually get up around 5:00 or 5:30, have coffee, walk the dog, then head out on the trails for a run. I usually get to work between 9 and 10, work til 5, then head home to relax by the lake. My evening very often consists of enjoying a cigar and a whiskey. Besides all of the big changes and increased business for work, I keep busy with coaching through ESR Endurance Training, running on trails most days of the week, and playing bass guitar.
CR: If you were a new edition to a crayon box what color would you be and why?
Blacker Black. I like black, and it's hard to improve on black.
CR: Tell us about one of your worst runs ever? You define what makes it "the worst"
It was a 10-mile long run loop in Binghamton. The weather was about 38 degrees with driving wind, rain and hail. We had committed to a 10 mile loop, so once we were out there, we had no choice but to finish. I really thought I was going to the hospital with severe hypothermia that day.
CR: Trails, Track or Road Races? What is your favorite distance and why?
Trails, by far. I ran roads and raced marathons for the better part of 10 years. Loved it, but it got to the point of just burning me out. I tried trail running as a way to make a change and hopefully rekindle my fire for running, and it most certainly did. I love being out on the trails, how every step is different, the scenery is so beautiful and ever-changing, and just enjoy the unique challenge of trail running and how it is so different from road running.
CR: You are going on a running vacation, What are the 3- 5 items (hopefully something we sell) you bring?
A couple of pair of Altra trail shoes, Garmin Fenix watch, and a couple running outfits from Rabbit.
CR: Who is your running idol?
Kilian Jornet
CR: What is your favorite movie/book?
Pulp Fiction / On The Road
CR: What do you like most about your job?
Being able to work in an industry that is also my passion.
CR: Most memorable running moment?
That's a tough one. I have had so many good ones. But it is hard to top running the Boston Marathon.
CR: What is your biggest achievement to date – personal or professional?
Becoming an Army Ranger with the 75th Ranger Regiment
CR: What time of day do you like to run?
- Morning (let's get after it)
- Mid-day Afternoon ( I like to run when it is super hot out and the sun is up)
- Evening (I feel fastest in the dark)
Morning!
CR: One thing most people don't know about you?
I was a skydiver and instructor for about 10 years and made over 3,000 jumps.
CR:What is your favorite post-run meal?
NY Style pizza
