AARC Officers

Felix Tanh

President

I started running just before I turned 30 (because I thought that everything goes downhill after 30 so I better start exercising!). I could barely run a mile but trained for my first 5K. My shoe laces came untied three times during the race and I figured if I double knot my shoe laces, I’d get a faster time. Sure enough I improved on my next 5K a month later. Then the obsession started. 5Ks became 10Ks, 10 milers, half marathons, and then full marathons. To date, I’ve completed 20+ marathons. And along the way accomplishing various challenges (Ragnar Relays, 50Ks, and triathlons). I also believe that you need to have fun while running (e.g., completing the Krispy Kreme Challenge, various other doughnut relays, or doing destination races)!

I first started seeing some runners with AARC shirts at some of the local races. I was thinking to myself, “What is this cult?” A few years later, now I’m one of them! Running with AARC has helped me achieve my fitness goals. It’s great having like minded friends who encourage and motivate me. Whether it’s training for the next marathon or getting ready for a beer relay, I have my AARC family that I can lean on and have fun!

Mackenzie Parks

Vice President

For me, running began as a means to stay fit while I was in college. I didn’t get more serious about running until I did my first marathon in 2013 with no idea what I was doing. I was sure I was a one-and-done marathoner! Later that year I joined the AARC, and instantly clicked with like minded people who have taught me so much about running and life. Going to track workouts opened up a whole new world, and after coming home and telling my husband how fun it was, convinced him to try out the club as well. Now about 10 years later, I have run several marathons, a couple 50ks, and unfortunately recognized that said husband is now faster than me.

The best thing about the Ashburn Area Running Club is the people who become your network- pushing you to your best, running talk therapy sessions, and having a built-in cheer group at races. I love connecting to new people and have seen how the club serves as a community builder and strengthens relationships!

Jeanne Friberg

Scribe

I am Jeanne Friberg. I have been married for 29 years, and I have two adult children. Running has been a part of my life from an early age. My father was in the military and running was part of his life, so I started running with him when I was in high school. I joined my first running group located in Washington D.C. when I was 26 years old. I ran my first marathon, the Marine Corp Marathon, in Washington D.C. in 1993. I have run over 20 marathons since then. Although now I prefer running half marathons. I enjoy running and being outside with my friends in the AARC running group. Besides the tangible benefits of running such as lowering cholesterol, boosting your immune system, and burning more calories, running helps relieve stress and helps me have a more positive attitude. Running helps me think more clearly, and all of the endorphins combined with the fresh air helps me to start my day.

I have been a member of the AARC running group from the time it started in May of 2004. Recently I have started to bike ride again. I enjoy bike riding on the trail especially in the fall when all the leaves are turning various hues of red, orange, and yellow.

I am looking forward to helping AARC reach their goals in the next few years.

Eric Meister

Treasurer

Running has been part of my life since my high school days, when I first discovered how much I enjoyed being fit, working toward a goal, and sharing the experience with teammates through soccer. While I appreciated the physical benefits, I also found that running gave me something more—a chance to think clearly, work through ideas, and enjoy time on my own. Those early miles laid the foundation for a lifelong relationship with running that continued through my time in the Army, where early morning company runs reinforced the importance of physical readiness, mental strength, and camaraderie built through shared effort.

I joined the Ashburn Area Running Club in 2004 after literally running into the group while training solo, and it quickly became clear that AARC was the perfect fit. What started as a simple desire to run with others turned into lasting friendships and a true sense of belonging. My favorite part of the club has always been the people—enjoying miles together, sharing coffee and conversation after a run, and having the accountability that gets me out the door on early mornings. The friendships formed through AARC have grown well beyond running, and that sense of community is what has kept me coming back for more than 20 years.

After two decades as a member, I’m honored and excited to give back to the club that has given me so much by serving as Treasurer. In this role, I hope to use my experience to help AARC remain strong, sustainable, and welcoming to runners of all levels. Whether you’re new to running, new to the area, or a long‑time member, I hope you find the same encouragement, connection, and joy here that I have—and I look forward to seeing you on the run and at the coffee table afterward.

Join AARC Today

You do not have to be a member to join us for a run, all are welcome. However, here are a few benefits of being a member!

Have Questions?

You do not have to be a member to join us for a run, all are welcome.. Please let us know if you have questions or suggestions.