Runner in the Spotlight: Thomas Eggar

Thomas Eggar works as an air traffic controller in Columbia, SC even though he resides in Ballantyne. Thomas is best known in the Charlotte Running Club for his sculpted body, his free-spirited nature, and his ultra marathoning. Despite having Type 1 Diabetes, Thomas still runs more miles in a week than Caitlin drives...

Where do you work?
I work for the federal government as an air traffic controller down in Columbia SC. My job can be pretty stressful at times, so running after work is always a good way to let some of that go.

How long have you been in Charlotte / What’s your fav restaurant?
I’ve been in Charlotte since 2005 and am still finding new places to eat (and run) but currently I've been enjoying Copper in Dilworth and Joel’s Sushi up by the lake.

When and why did you start running?
I ran a little bit in high school, but only recently started running on a more serious level a couple years back when I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes.
(Caitlin’s note: Thomas has been the first diabetic to cross the finish line in numerous ultra races)

What do you love about running?
I just love the simplicity of the sport. Give me some socks, shoes and a trail and I can go get lost for hours...No cars, no iPod, no distractions.

Where is your favorite place to run in Charlotte?
I have been running at the whitewater center quite a bit lately, in preparation for a 50 Miler in August on some technical trails out in Tulsa.

What’s your favorite distance and your PRs for that distance?
The 50k (3:43 pr) and 50 miler (6:14 pr) are my favorite distances to race.

A couple months ago you finished a 100 mile race in less than 24 hours. What can you tell us about that experience?
The 100 miler was an adventure to say the least. I've read before that the race is run in 2 parts: the first, run with your legs and, the second, run with your head. There's only so much you can think about while running for 20+ hours. I was very fortunate to have some great Charlotte Running Club folks (Aaron Linz, Jay Holder, Matt Jaskot, and Michelle Hazelton) to keep me occupied/entertained during the very long 2nd half.

As horrible as I felt after the 100 miler, I'm anxious to step to the line for another one and work on smashing my current PR by a few hours.

What do you love most about the Club?
I don’t currently lead any CRC runs due to my hectic work schedule. I do join several of the group runs and for this reason I know I wouldn't be anywhere close to the shape I'm in without the help of its members. The Charlotte Running Club has allowed for me to meet some awesome people (shout out to the princess) and I look forward to seeing tons of people rocking the CRC gear at the local races this year!

Thomas will be running Twin Cities Marathon this Fall with Dan Hochberg, who was chosen for the Medtronic Global Heroes...