Meet Your Pace Leaders: Team 13, Steve & Jan

Learn more about the Pasadena Pacer’s LA Marathon training program.
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Steve Smith
13 min/mile Pace Leader
(Editor Note: Dr. Steve Smith is also the Pasadena Pacers founder and Team Doc)

How long have you been with the Pasadena Pacers? 22 years

How many marathons have you run? I dunno—can’t count all of them.

Why do you run? I run to be with friends and stave off dilapidation that keeps chasing after me.

Favorite post run snack/ meal? Poached eggs, pretty much anything that is not kale.

Running mantra: Don’t be reasonable. Hills are your friends.

Occupation: Chiropractor, running specialist

Hometown: Whittier, CA

What do you do for fun? Woodworking, running, house maintenance (which I grumble about but love), grandkids, travel to visit grandkids, flying gliders.

Do you have a secret talent? I can predict the past. And, almost no one knows this, but I can create puns on the runs!

Anything else you’d like your fellow Pacers to know? I love them!


Jan Zari
13 min/mile Pace Leader

How long have you been with the Pasadena Pacers? Four years

How many marathons have you run? Five—four LAMs and the Dopey Challenge at Walt Disney World

Why do you run? For my own physical and mental health. There are also fewer things in life that feel as rewarding as crossing the finish line at a race!

Favorite post run snack/meal? Chili Cheese Fries from The Hat! And glacier white cherry Gatorade.

Running mantra: Running has taught me that I can make the impossible possible.

Occupation: Human Resources Analyst and PhD Candidate

Hometown: Alhambra, CA

What do you do for fun? Nap, go on food adventures, and procrastinate! As a PhD student, I have mastered the art of procrastination!

Do you have a secret talent? See answer above 🙂

Anything else you’d like your fellow Pacers to know? Interval running has changed my life! Give it a try, and surprise yourself.