Jay SmithGone are the ‘dreaded days of gym class,’ when Jay Smith, Ann Arbor Track Club Membership Coordinator, was required, much to his displeasure, to run.

Older and wiser, Smith now dreads the days that he cannot get out and run.

Though a desire to improve his fitness was the catalyst that launched Jay’s running career nearly five years ago, it was not long before the ‘running bug bit,’ and Smith was hooked.

So much so that he joined the AATC in his desire to connect with likeminded athletes and improve his running performance.

“So far I think it’s worked out in both aspects,” Smith surmised.

And he didn’t stop there. As 2010 neared its close, Jay learned from AATC President, Mitch Garner that the club was in need of a new membership coordinator.

“In every organization I’ve ever joined, I’ve gotten the most out of the ones I was most active in,” Smith maintained. “I thought I would give it a try.”

Garner admits that while the position of membership coordinator is “not very glamorous,” it is nonetheless of decided importance.

“The Ann Arbor Track Club could not survive without people like Jay to take on these less visible, but no less important roles. I cannot thank Jay enough for taking on this responsibility. He has done a great job for the AATC, and we are very appreciative.”

Membership is not the only club facet to benefit from Jay’s involvement. Crim 10 Mile race teammate, Terry Reilly, appreciated Smith’s partnership this past summer, securing them a 4th place team finish.

He claims to be a “newbie,” but much can be learned from Smith’s laid back approach to our sport.

“I’ve learned to not stress about running or racing. Most of us do this to have fun and enjoy ourselves, so there’s no point in getting upset about it. I’ve also found it imperative to listen to my body and not be afraid of taking a few days off here and there.”

Outside of running, Jay admits to being “a bit of a gearhead.”

“I’m a member of the BMW Car Club of America, and I’ve been working on cars as long as I can remember. I also enjoy boating and being outside as much as possible.”

Professionally, Jay is an engineer for the US Environmental Protection Agency.

“We write and implement regulations that reduce air pollution from motor vehicles. Prior to that, I worked in engine research at both General Motors R&D and the University of Michigan.”

Holy moly! An engineer and ‘car guy,’ concerned about the environment with practical advice to boot!

How fortunate our club is to retain a man of such caliber.

If Smith’s P.E. teacher could only see him now….