Billy Satterwhite Austin, TX - PATH projects KREW
I live in Austin, TX and have been running since 2010. I got into running while I was working on my Master of Music from the University of Michigan. It started as a way to improve my health and explore a new city and state. I found so much enjoyment in the simple beauty in the process of run training that I started getting excited for each of my runs. I ran my first official race in 2011. Since then I have run a handful of marathons and ultramarathons, focusing mostly on trail running events. Since moving back to Austin in 2012 running has become one of my biggest passions. I love each aspect of the sport -- the training, the exploration, the events, the community, the gear, and the history. Being in Austin I'm surrounded by a great running community and some incredible trail networks. I train and coach primarily with the group Trail Roots. In 2017 I began coaching a few runners, and just recently have taken steps to begin pursuing coaching as a new career path.
Running accomplishment(s) you are proud of
Finishing the Western States 100 in 2018. I got into the race on my 4th attempt in the lottery, and it just so happened to be the year that our daughter was born. My wife was my crew chief while caring for our 4 month old daughter with her to various aid stations along the course. Seeing them through out the race and holding her at the finish line was the greatest reward. It is pretty special that her first trail race was the famous Western States Endurance Run!
Any races or adventures on your horizon and / or bucket list?
Races - TBD. Potentially Rocky Raccoon 50 in February 2021, and Broken Arrow 50k in June 2021.
Adventures - Running the Outer Mountain Loop in Big Bend National Park.
Linking up all the major trail systems in Austin, TX for a 50(ish) mile trail run.
Potentially doing some big fun runs in the Pacific Northwest next summer!
Your favorite PATH projects gear?
The Sykes AT 5" short and Torch FX 5" liner. They are both super light weight, breathable, and functional. The perfect combo for hot weather runs in Central Texas. I am also a big fan of the 3/4 Raglan shirt, it is super comfortable for cooler runs and chillin.
What do you enjoy about running?
The most enjoyable part of running for me is the mindfulness element. Each time I go run, no matter where or when, there is the opportunity to be present in that moment. I think that also allows me to appreciate the scenery and vibes on the run a little deeper. No matter my mood at the start of a run, the vast majority of the time I end a run with a clearer head and better perspective.
Advice for runners looking to improve?
Keep a journal, either digital or physical, of race reports and notes from your good and bad runs. I've found in the past that I take away more lessons from a race or run if I write and reflect on it.
Social channels you are most active on?
Anything else you’d like to share to the PATH projects community?
I am grateful to have a wife who supports my long distance running endeavors, an amazing daughter, and 2 loving pups. I'm also a formally trained musician with a graduate degree in Jazz Studies and Improvisation on the Double Bass, and though I don't make my living playing music anymore, I still love to play and perform. My current musical project is playing bass in the band, Indian & The Jones. You can check out our music on all music streaming platforms and YouTube!
Learn about all other KREW members HERE.