Joanna Russo is the Store Manager at the newly opened Pacers Running store in the Boilermaker Shops, located at 300 Tingey Street, SE in the Capitol Riverfront. Open since October, Pacers offers premier fitness gear for beginning and seasoned runners. Prior to joining the Pacers team 5 years ago, Joanna worked as a librarian for the Library of Congress. She’s also an avid runner who picked up running in high school as a soccer player.

What do you love about working in the Capitol Riverfront?

Easy access to green space and tranquility.

What are some upcoming events at Pacers that our readers should know about?

The Veterans Day 10K Run and Walk is November 8th. After that, the Jingle All the Way 5K will be December 5th. Registration for both races is available at www.runpacers.com. 

Why did Pacers decide to open a store at The Yards in the Capitol Riverfront?

This neighborhood is much like Pacers Running—young, dynamic and expanding—so we wanted to be a part of it.

What are your favorite restaurants in the neighborhood?

Bluejacket and Nando’s Peri-Peri. 

What are your favorite places to run and exercise in the Capitol Riverfront?

I used to row out of the old Capitol Rowing boathouse. I love how much the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail has developed over the past ten years. 

Any tips for staying motivated to exercise in the winter?

You just have to find something to inspire you, whether it's hot tea at the end of a run, fitting into a bikini in January or working off those holiday sweets. Winter won't last forever! I love dark, cold mornings and I'm especially happy if there is also snow, but I know that's not true for most people.

 What is your favorite place in the neighborhood?

In front of Ice Cream Jubilee's freezer with a spoon in hand.