Meet the Gang
Get to know our running experts!
Christopher
Owner & Former Corporate Stooge
I started running in high school and ran on the Wheeling HS State Championship team in '98 with future Olympian Jorge Torres. While I paused running in my 20s, I found my way back before I turned 30 and have been running ever since. My favorite race distance is the 5k, but my favorite memories are from pacing and helping fellow runners meet or exceed their running goals. Outside of running I love spending time with my family, making music, White Sox baseball, and Bears football.
Jay
The Foot & Bone Expert
I started running in high school during my freshman year of Cross Country. I really love to compete with others, as well as meet new people within the running community. My favorite running memory is definitely running with my teammates and goofing around during our easy runs. Outside of running, I love to play basketball with my friends and weightlifting.
Kev
The Jack of Most Trades
I have several years of experience in personal training. My specialties are functional movement and strength training. I just started running in 2025. I love getting out on the trail and being out in nature. Outside of health and fitness I enjoy creating art, music and memories with my friends and family.
Layla
The HEHS Student
I have been running since elementary school when my school opened the “Running DIVAS” club. Today, I am a committed Hoffman Estates high school runner in Cross Country and Track, and plan to run in college. My favorite running memory was winning my 4x4 at sectionals. The 400m dash and the 4x4m relay are easily my favorite races, but in the fall I enjoy 3-mile runs in the cool air. I also have a passion for biology and hope to become a biology teacher or researcher. I also wrestle in the winter for my high school.
Aleksandra
The HEHS Student
I started running as a kid with my mom—mostly just for fun, but things got serious once I hit high school and fell head over heels for the sport. My favorite running memory has to be breaking my PR at conference during junior year XC season. After battling some annoying injuries, finally proving myself felt so good. On the track, the 800m is my jam. When I’m not running, you’ll probably find me outside with my friends or family, or skiing down a mountain pretending I’m in the Winter Olympics.
Kaelah
The UIC Student
I started running for sport in 7th grade. However, it wasn't until my junior year that I joined my school's Track & Field team. My favorite running memory is from my first track meet with the 800m & 400m. The meet was indoors with very little rest between events. Despite this, I still had a great time and was able to cheer on my team. While running isn't my favorite form of exercise, once I start running it's so much fun being in my own world.
Diane
The Trainer
I started running in 2013 when I was looking for an outlet. I went from "no more than a 5K" to running half-marathons. My favorite race was Disney's Fairy Tale challenge. My most accomplished race was the F3 half marathon in 2019. It was -4 degrees at the start, yet I still finished. I am skilled as an Athletic Trainer and have worked with industrial athletes.
Outside of running, I enjoy outings with my Fast Track family and Disney vacations.
Communications & In-the-Field Former Xtra Mile Employees!
Christina
Communications Specialist
I'm the proud wife of Chris, the dreamer and founder of Xtra Mile Running. I am definitely the non-runner of the Xtra Mile family, as I'm positive I walk faster than I run. I enjoy being creative and the store has given me an outlet to do that. I help whenever I'm need with socials, t-shirt designs, and the website. In as much "spare time" as being a mom allows, I love reading, drawing, traveling, and doing yoga.
Kennon
From Xtra Mile to Industry Professional
Kennon was a staple at Xtra Mile for many years and is now a Consumer Experience Specialist for aventry Group, where he'll still get to work with Xtra Mile! He will work to build connections in the running industry. Kennon currently attends Roosevelt University. Outside of work, he loves rock climbing, drinking La Croix, and spending time with his girlfriend Jodie.
Ryan
From Xtra Mile to Industry Professional
Xtra Mile's former Field Marketing Director, Ryan Marshall, is now a professional in the runny industry. He works as a sales representative for Hoka! Congrats, Ryan! Ryan is originally from Michigan and now lives in Elgin, IL. He has been a passionate runner for over a decade, and has been working in the running industry for almost ten years. Ryan loves helping runners in any way he can. He has experience in track, cross country, road running, and trails. Outside of running, he loves to hang out with his wife and their dog.
Junior Staff Members
Mikey Schiel
Energy Specialist
I have transitioned from my role as Xtra Mile's Quality Assurance Officer to Energy Specialist, as my energy became more of a liability when visiting the store. My energy is great when I can cheer on runners though! My favorite things to do are going on "run-n-rides" with my dad (he runs, I bike!), swimming, and being outside.
Sophie Schiel
Chief Happiness Officer
As the youngest member of the gang, I am focused on YOUR happiness. I do NOT like to run, but I'll muster through the annual Fast Track Kids Night just for the medal. My favorite part of Xtra Mile is that we sponsor the Schaumburg Boomers baseball team! I love going to the games and playing in the kids area! In my spare time, I looove reading!