When I asked fellow GERWC board members to suggest a walker that I could profile for this issue, they called out in unison, "Jim Isaacs!" So I was eager to contact Jim and hear his story. Fortunately, he graciously agreed to answer my prying questions!

Jim currently lives near Oakland City and retired last summer as principal of Princeton Community High School. He is fortunate to have his wife, Jonna, as a walking and racing partner, and they walk most days in and around Oakland City.

Jim's walking began in 1992 for health reasons, but quickly got hooked on the high of racing and competing. He and Jonna enjoy meeting fellow walkers on Tuesday evenings at Wesselman Park. 

An avid racer, Jim enters many local races, regardless of distance. He especially favors distances of 10K and longer. His all-time favorite race is the Indianapolis Mini Marathon because of the party atmosphere, although Jim says the small-town races appeal just as well.

Asked to provide some words of wisdom for fellow runners/walkers, Jim states, "I've never been famous for words of wisdom, but I encourage everyone to keep racing, no matter how fast or slow. It is great for health and it is fun!"