Benjamin Perri Hood River, Oregon - PATH projects KREW

I was born in New York where I stayed throughout high school. After a brief flirtation with higher education, I realized my calling was hardcore music. So, I went on the road as a tour manager with a band from Brooklyn, Shutdown, and began writing and publishing Trydent Fanzine about this music scene and the people in it. In fact, I was so immersed in hardcore that I was asked to join other New Yorkers as the vocalist / screamer for the band they were forming. From Autumn to Ashes went on to international fame, and not much fortune, but enjoyed many round-the-world trips performing.

Fast forward about seven years and the break-up of the band, I moved from NYC to Seattle where I spent six years as a bartender at the world-renowned cocktail bar, ZigZag Café, under the tutelage of Murray Stenson, a legendary mixologist. I proved to be a great student, as was nominated for American Bartender of the Year in 2012.

I didn't find running until later in life, but when I did it was an epiphany. I found something I truly loved and afforded me the freedom to roam but also the freedom from my mind. The outdoors is where I can let everything else go and just be.

Today, I make my home in Hood River, OR… spending my days as a trail runner, outdoor adventurer, marathoner, ultra-runner, and sweeper. I thrive in the mountains and try to capture the beauty of the great Northwest in my photos.

Running accomplishment(s) you are proud of

Getting off the couch and doing it. For so many years I took advantage of my body. The trials and tribulations I put it through were starting to really take a toll on my mental health as well as my physical. The realization of that fact is my proudest moment in my running history. As of late I have let myself regress to the point I was at before my awakening, but again, the realization of my mortality is the motivating factor to getting back to a place that will give my body the best chance at a long and healthy life.

Any races or adventures on your horizon and / or bucket list?

This might be the summer where I try and tackle Wy'east (Hood), Pahto (Adams), and Loowit (Helens)!

Your favorite PATH projects gear?

For as long as I have been running, I have taken a scissor to every pair of shorts I owned to remove the liner. The PATH comes along and changes the game with the Sykes AT. No longer do I have to mutilate a pair of shorts to find the comfort I desire!

What do you enjoy about running? 

Being a bartender for over 20 years, I have a ton of other people's thoughts, feelings, and emotions wrapped up in my mind to go along with my own. Running gives me the chance to release those thoughts and just think about putting once foot in front of the other (and hoping not to fall). That thought alone rolls me out of bed every morning and into my running shoes.

Advice for runners looking to improve?

Don't overtrain. It's that simple. If there is one way to get burnt out on running, this is it. Follow a plan that fits your style and needs. If it seems like too much, cut back and don't be afraid to do so. Everyone's body reacts differently.

Social channels you are most active on?

Strava, Instagram, and website.

Anything else you’d like to share to the PATH projects community?

You've got one life to live, take advantage of every moment.

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Learn about all other KREW members HERE.