Volunteer and Community Team Member Highlight: Julie and Massie Fox

Julie and Massie dazzle while volunteering for the 2013 Got Heart Give Hope Gala

What Inspired You To Volunteer With The Team?

Massie:  “The fact that it helped veterans and their families.  It was a great way to support them as I participated in something I loved, running.”

Julie:  “I liked their mission, and I wanted to join so that I could help in whatever way I could.”

Which Race Has been Your Favorite To Date?  Why?

Massie: “The Marine Corps Historic Half because it was my first with the Team.”

Julie:  “Run for the Dream 8K in Williamsburg, VA, because of the nostalgia from running through colonial Williamsburg; also, because my husband did it with me.”

What Would You Say To Someone Who Is Interested In Volunteering With The Team?

Massie:  “It is a great experience and it makes you feel great!”

Julie: “It’s very rewarding when you go to the races and you see the people that Hope For The Warriors® has helped."

What Is Your Favorite Thing About Volunteering With The Team? 

Massie & Julie:  “The comradery and the positive outlook of the Team members." 

Massie and Julie celebrate at the Team tent after the Virginia Beach Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon

How Did You Hear About Hope for the Warriors®?

Massie & Julie:  “The Hope For The Warriors® booth at the Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon."

What Made You Want To Join The Team?

Massie: “The opportunity to help other veterans.”

Julie:  “I liked their cause and I could join a team where I didn’t feel the obligation to fundraise all the time.  It was great to know that I could wear the jersey and still bring awareness to their cause.”

What Races Did You Run Last Year?

Massie:  “The DC Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon, Cherry Blossom 10 Miler, The Flying Pirate 5K and Half Marathon, Nashville Rock N Roll Half Marathon, Run for the Dream 8K and Half Marathon, Charlottesville 10 Miler, Virginia Beach Rock N Roll Half Marathon, Army 10 Miler and the Looking for Trouble 5K.”

Julie:  “The Cherry Blossom 5K, The Flying Pirate 5K, Nashville Rock N Roll 5K, Run for the Dream 8K, Virginia Beach Rock N Roll Half Marathon, Army 10 Miler, Freedom 5K in Norfolk, VA, Looking for Trouble 5K and the Christmas Town Dash 8K.” 

Julie and Massie pose for a quick picture in their Team gear. 

What Is On Your Schedule This Year?

Massie & Julie: “Looking for Trouble 5K, Saint Charles Festival 5K, Parkway Classic 10 Miler, Run for the Dream 8K and Half Marathon, Run for the Dream 8K and Half Marathon, Historic Half Marathon in Fredericksburg, VA, Virginia Beach Rock N Roll Half Marathon, Freedom Half Marathon and 5K, Christmas Town Dash 8K,  Philadelphia Rock N Roll Half Marathon.”

What Keeps You Motivated During Your Long Runs?

Massie:  “All the different people I get to meet and see; enjoying the beautiful landscape.”

Julie: “To achieve my goal, that’s it; fellow Team members too, they help you get through the tough moments.”

Do You Have Any Pre-race Superstitions?

Massie:  “I don’t have any superstitions, or traditions, but I do tend to lie out all of my gear the night before the race.  I like to put my bib on my shorts the night prior.”

Julie:  “I have none. I get up and go.”

What Do You Treat Yourself To After a Race?

Massie:  “A free beer and a big juicy burger.”

Julie:  “Same thing and chocolate milk if available.”

If You Could Run With Any Celebrity, Who Would It Be?

Massie:  “I’ve already ran twice with Drew Carey.”

Julie: “Princess Diana if she was still alive and (pauses) Jon Bon Jovi.”

Massie: “Oh since we are going there. (laughs)”

Julie:  “Kelly Ripa, Cher, Bette Midler, and Gary Sinese.”

Massie:  “Micah True”

Massie and Julie celebrate at the Team tent after the 2012 Army Ten-Miler 

What Is On Your Running Playlist Right Now?

Massie:  “I don’t run with music, I enjoy talking with other runners.”

Julie:  “Adam Lambert, Jon Bon Jovi, Cher and Bette Midler.”

Have You Always Been A Runner? 

Massie:  “I was a runner in high school but once I joined the military, I stopped.  I started training again about three years ago.”

Julie:  “I didn’t run, until I joined the military.  Then I stopped running after my second child, and then started again when my children were both in college, about twenty years later.”

What Race Is On Your Bucket List? Why?

Massie:  “The New York City Half Marathon, since I was young, I have always wanted to run around Central Park.  Also, the diverse group of runners and fans is intriguing.”

Julie:  “I would love to race in New York City. I don’t, per say, have a bucket list.  I plan to do races with Massie, but I don’t, necessarily, have any races I must participate.”