JON OBST

Kennesaw, GA
Age: 29
Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age 19

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

ING Ga Marathon 2009, doubled it, 52.4 miles, race- 2:53, 16th place
Iron Horse 100 mile 2009, 21:43, 5th place
Pinhoti 100 mile 2010, 26:12, 30th place
Won Fat Ass 50k 2011, 4:41
Won Hot to Trot 8 hour race, 2010, 53 miles
Won Pine Mountain 40 mile 2009, 6:21. 3rd place, 6:27 in 2010

MEET JON OBST

When were you diagnosed with diabetes?

I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when I was 19 years old, I am 27 now.

How did you and your family feel about diabetes when you were first diagnosed?

My family was shocked along with me and worried. But could NOT have been then and to this day more supportive, helpful and encouraging to me!! We fought it hard from the beginning together.

How do you feel about diabetes now?

I feel like it is an everyday battle but a war that I am winning! In some ways, I am actually happy that I have it. As I have always been healthy, but since diagnosed, I am so much more aware and in-tune with my body. Also, diabetes led me to where I am now as an endurance athlete/ultra runner.

Tell us about your life at home. Married? Any children?

Yes, married. No, children.

Why is exercise and competition a part of your life?

There are many reasons why exercise and competition are a part of my life. Most importantly, it is so extraordinarily helpful with controlling my diabetes! Plus all the other physical, mental and emotional benefits that come with exercise. I truly enjoy pushing myself, progressing and taking on new and exciting challenges. Also, I really value all of the close friendships that I have developed through running.

What drew you to Team Type 1?

I was originally introduced to Team Type 1 by the founder, Phil Southerland. I contacted him and we went on some rides together. I was beyond impressed with the team, what it represents, and was instantly something I wanted to be a part of.

Tell us about a personal achievement that was highly significant to you.

Getting some family members and friends into running and inspiring many people. Running has countless intrinsic rewards!

How about an athletic achievement that you find especially significant?

Running a double ING Ga Marathon in 2009. I ran the course the first time in 4 hours and the race a few minutes later, in 2:53. There are many athletic achievements that I am proud of, but that one stands out a lot. I had always wanted to run a double marathon and did in fashion with a good friend, Jen Vogel.

If there is one piece of advice you could give to someone who was newly diagnosed with diabetes– what would it be?

That you can keep on living your life strong and happily, even more so than before your diagnosis. Diabetes is tough, but you will overcome it. You can have amazing accomplishments with diabetes. Diabetes is not the end of you!

How did you feel in school about having diabetes?

I was diagnosed in college. As difficult as being newly diagnosed was, I did not feel uncomfortable there. My friends and the nurse I worked with were very supportive.

Tell us about your favorite TT1 event to date.

Watching the cycling team win and set new records at RAAM! Amazing performance.

In what way have you found that your diabetes has helped you grow as an individual?

Diabetes has really enriched my life on many levels. It has encouraged me to learn to “dig deep” and strive for the best in all pursuits of life.

Are there any areas of your diabetes management that you are currently targeting to improve?

I would like to improve my A1C and my overall morning blood sugars –they have been slightly elevated.

How about an athletic goal that you have for the long term?

Running strong, running many more 100 milers. Dominating amazing races with the Running Team.

Jon, thanks for talking with us – its been fun.

Thank you.