Doug's journey to Runner of the Year was incredibly inspirational.  In December of 2014, the Vertical Runner tagline of Run Hard, Live Easy was challenged for him as he was dealt with a medical condition that required brain surgery. A day or so later, he was out cheering on his club mates during the Ugly Sweater group run! Since then, his comeback, positive outlook, and incredibly inspirational race performances speak for themselves. Despite medication and radiation, forced downtime, quick fatigue, and continuous monitoring of his health, he has pushed his PR's in every event all year! As a member of Project: Marathon!, the Vertical Runner Pace Team, and organizer of numerous weekend club group runs, it is rare to go to a club event or race where there is a large club presence and not see his smiling face! Anytime anyone needs anything whether it is advice, answer to a question, or support, he is the first to offer help and also the first to brag about a fellow runner's accomplishment well before his own. Doug's ability to persevere even in the face of adversity, and not only stay active, but improve his running abilities made it easy for his peers to vote for him as recipient of the 2015 Wooster Running Club ROY Award!

The award was given was announced at the Running Club Christmas Party at JAFB brewery on December 21.  Doug's name and picture will be displayed on a Plaque that will be kept in the store and updated annually.  All finalists received gift cards to Vertical Runner Wooster.  Congrats to all and job well done by the Wooster Running Club as they certainly recognized 4 incredible individials.