Getting To Know: Joe Niemiec

During this time of uncertainty due to the COVID-19 pandemic non-essential operations are basically restricted or limited -- including running competitions. So we will use this "social distancing" period to learn a little more about our ASICS Greenville Track Club-ELITE athletes.

Our first post is about Joe Niemiec, who competed in the USA Olympic Team Trials marathon on February 29 in Atlanta, GA. 

Q: Why did you move to Greenville?
JN: In October, 2018 my wife, Jasmine, and I moved here from Michigan with our two children (at that time) so I could join the Greenville Track Club-ELITE program. 

Q: What about the Greenville Track Club-ELITE program was most important in making your decision to join?
JN: I thought it was my best chance at being able to qualify for the Olympic Marathon Trials and I liked the idea behind less miles and more strength.

Q: What do you like the most about GTC-ELITE?
JN: I enjoy the people I’ve met and having access to the FIT Garage. Both of these have enabled me to become a better runner.

Q: Have you experienced improvement in your running since joining the program?
JN: Absolutely. The times speak for themselves. I went from being injured to a 2:26 and then to a 2:17:23 marathon within 12 months. Also pr’d in the 10k.

Q: Which competitive distance are you focused on?
JN: Marathon

Q: What is your favorite place in GVL to take friends or family?
JN: Swamp Rabbit Cafe

Q: What is your favorite eating establishment in GVL?
JN: White Duck Taco. Plenty of room for kids to run around giving adults some space. It’s like free babysitting and the tacos are way too good.

Q: How is your training with the program different than what you experienced previously or in college?
JN: A huge focus on supplemental training and not so much on overall mileage. This differs from my college experience, because in college mileage was king. I think for me personally building up overall body strength has made me a more durable runner which is key during a marathon buildup.

Q: Which model of ASICS footwear is your favorite for training?
JN: The GEL Nimbus. I do long runs, easy runs, and workouts in them and they hold up really well.

Q:  When you cook, what is your favorite meal?
JN: I’m a sous vide guy so a good steak with potatoes and greens. Yea. Get in my belly.

Q: What was your major in college and why were you interested in that field of study?
JN: Electrical Engineering. I grew up taking things apart and fixing them and as I got older engineering gave me the opportunity to get paid to do just that!

Q: Where are you employed and what is your current position?
JN: TBD. I am currently on the job hunt.

For more details about Joe's performances please visit JOE NIEMIEC.