Porter County Member-At-Large
Mike Stiles (Valparaiso, IN) began his running career in 1997 thanks to Tim Kruger (his boss at the time) taking him to his first race which was the Flurry Scurry. BigHal Slager got him into marathons. Mike's been a Strider for five years and has participated in the Gold Cup series for four.
Why do I run? Running marathons has given me a foundation on which I live my life- discipline, dedication, perseverance. Running also helps give me balance in my life. I enjoy it for exercise, stress release, competition, and socializing. The primary goal for this year's running season is to improve my half-marathon time.
Other passions include tennis, baseball, and college basketball. Most of all, I love Lake Michigan, its beaches and dunes - I want my ashes spread here when I pass. I spend a lot of time reading and want to spend more time traveling.
I have completed my coursework and have received my elementary teaching license. I am now teaching 6th grade at Lake Street Elementary School in Crown Point. I am in my fourth year as an assistant coach for the girls tennis team at Andrean High School.
As a board member, I plan on focusing on older runners and members of the Striders- people who have brought the club to where it is now, in our 25th year.
Contact info:
Email:
Phone: 219-477-5113