The Original Ultimate Runner: The Race That Ignited a Powerful Sense of Belief
"But Jesus looked at them and said to them, ‘With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.’"
- Matthew 19:26
This chapter is a bit longer than most of the posts in the Faith and Miles series because of the impact the original ultimate runner had on my life.
In high school, I won the state championship in the 800 meters (880 yards back then). I also finished second in the nation at the National Junior Olympics held in Ithaca, New York. These blessings paved the way for my collegiate journey at the University of Montana. I became a two-time Big Sky Conference champion in the 800 meters, setting school and conference records along the way.
My time at Montana was truly special, especially with our incredible team. I was surrounded by exceptional athletes like Dave Gordon and Tom Raunig, who distinguished themselves in the Olympic Marathon Trials—Dave barely missed qualifying for the team, finishing an impressive fourth.
At the same race, Tom secured a spot in the top ten. Dave also represented the USA on the World Marathon team, being an All-American in the 10,000 meters. Tom also secured an All-American spot. Our team had other runners with national-class talent. It was indeed a golden era for running at Montana.
Living with Tom as my roommate and connecting with Dave from my hometown truly transformed my college experience. Those years were filled with laughter with all the guys on the team on road trips, card games, late-night talks, and unforgettable memories that I’ll carry with me forever.
As I wrapped up my collegiate journey, a new chapter beckoned. I was eager to embrace fresh challenges by stepping up to the 1500 meters and the mile. The thought of training as a post-collegiate runner filled me with excitement and a sense of freedom, and I was ready to try something new.
By my late twenties, I had become a nationally ranked 1500-meter runner and miler. I mostly trained independently, except for a short time with Dave Gordon, who was from my hometown. We trained together after college for a brief time until he received a professional sponsorship from Nike’s first professional track and field team, Athletics West.
Throughout my post-collegiate career, I primarily trained on my own, with occasional training sessions alongside my Reebok Harrier teammates and for a short while with my college teammate, USA world marathon team member, Dave Gordon.
The post-collegiate journey ultimately led me to qualify for the USA Track and Field Championships, which were known as the TAC Track and Field Championships in my time, standing for "The Athletic Congress."
This competition was an unforgettable experience, where I found myself on the track with some of the sport's legends. Among my competitors at the USA Championships the renowned 1500-meter runners, Olympians Steve Scott and Steve Lacy, along with Craig Masback, a 3:52 miler, who would later take the as the CEO of USA Track and Field.
It was indeed an honor to compete alongside incredible milers from my era, each with their own story and passion for the sport.
I have always been drawn to the thrill of speed on the track. Back in my post-collegiate days as a runner, though, I only tackled the track mile once when I was in shape. I crossed the finish line with a good time of 4:00.10—a breath away from breaking the four-minute barrier. This was long before the era of super shoes, which reduced the time considerably during this event.
In the twilight of my career, I ran a USA-certified road mile, clocking 3:52.1 That race took place on a lightning-fast course, eventually becoming the site of the USA Master's Road Mile championships. The roar of the crowd lined up on the street that day, the adrenaline coursing through my veins, and the satisfaction of pushing my limits made those moments truly unforgettable.
However, aging legs are not a national-class runner's friend. It was almost time for me to retire my spikes and transition to the following chapters of my life. My running career was demanding more of my time, I was getting older, and training alone at the track in the evenings in the dark was becoming increasingly difficult due to many outside responsibilities.
The Original Ultimate Competition: A 10k, 400 meters, 100 meters, a mile, and a marathon all on the same day
As I approached the final stages of my competitive running career, I sought one last challenge before retiring my spikes. Deep down inside, I felt I had never fully realized my potential, so I completely redesigned and implemented a new training system.
As I stood on the precipice of one of the most challenging one-day races the world had ever seen, a thought struck me: Could I genuinely compete with the best? This was my moment to push boundaries, to transform my aspirations into reality. I thought, "What the heck? This is my final shot at becoming world-class! Why not shake things up and craft my own unique training routine?"
The fear of looking back one day and asking myself “What if?” fueled my determination.
I realized that every step, every drop of sweat, was under my control. If I didn’t reach the heights I was aiming for, the only person I could blame was myself. So, I embraced the challenge and was ready to seize the opportunity and make it count. Adventure awaited, and I was prepared to dive in!
I eagerly decided to enter when I saw the original Ultimate Runner Competition advertisement in a national running magazine. At that moment, the race felt as daunting as climbing Mt. Everest. It was the challenge and adventure I had been seeking. The original Ultimate Runner Competition required participants to complete a 10k, 400 meters, 100 meters, a mile, and a marathon the same day!
The purpose of the event was to determine the best all-around runner in the world.
Over the years, a showdown unfolded as runners from every corner of the spectrum—ranging from 1500 meters to grueling ultra-marathons—gathered for The Ultimate Runner Competition.
This extraordinary event sparked fierce debates among fans and athletes: Who truly deserves the title of the world’s best all-around runner? Can a miler outpace a marathon runner? What about the explosive speed of a sprinter—do they have what it takes to claim victory? Or will the endurance and grit of ultra-marathon runners steal the spotlight?
Each race was not just a test of speed or stamina but a battle of the will as runners ran in and out of oxygen debt all day.
The original winner of the Ultimate Runner Competition was celebrated as the best all-around runner in the world. This is akin to how track and field honors the Olympic decathlon champion as the top all-around athlete, and how the Ironman competition recognizes the best triathlete globally.
The Original Ultimate Runner Competition was designed to push the boundaries of human endurance in just one grueling day, and it truly lived up to its name. The founders set out to create an event that would challenge every ounce of grit and determination, and they absolutely succeeded. Looking back, I can honestly say that the Original Ultimate Runner Competition was the most demanding endurance event I've ever experienced—one that tested my limits like never before.
Runner's World Magazine writer Jim Harmon covered the race one year and had this to say about The Ultimate Runner: "This competition may be the last word in running endurance."
Imagine running nearly at top speed for over 33 miles in a single day. Completing five different races at that distance brought a pain I had never experienced before and haven't since.
Constantly going in and out of oxygen debt throughout the day was incredibly challenging, especially during the final event, the marathon. The shifts in pace took their toll. Jim Harmon was right—this event truly represents the ultimate in endurance running and is not for the faint of heart.
The original Ultimate Runner Competition attracted some of the finest ultra-marathoners in the world, turning the event into a thrilling showcase of endurance and skill. Among the legendary competitors was Barney Klecker, an icon in the sport who held the American record for 50 miles for nearly four decades—a remarkable feat that has inspired countless runners.
As a side note, the Klecker legacy doesn't stop there! His son, Joe Klecker, made his name known by earning a spot on the 2021 Olympic team in the 10,000 meters, proving that talent runs in the family. His mom Janis was also on the Olympic team in the marathon.
Add to this the fierce competition from Charlie Trayer, who was ranked as the number three ultramarathon runner in the world at that time, and you had a race filled with endurance history, ambition, and extraordinary determination. Trayer, like Klecker, had a Hall of Fame career.
Charlie Trayer was also named the Ultra-Running Magazine Ultra Runner of the Year in 1987. Stefan Feckner, the Ultra-Running Magazine Ultra Runner of 1988, also competed in the Original Ultimate Runner Competition.
The ultra-guys were attracted to this race because it was one of the most challenging running events ever created. These tough guys think running 100 miles in a day is normal!
Don Kardong, a former U.S. Olympian and fourth-place finisher in the Olympic marathon, participated in the Ultimate Runner Competition one year and shared his experiences in writing. In his signature humorous style, Kardong and a writer from the American Running Association had some amusing yet insightful comments about his participation in the Ultimate Runner Competition.
"When Kardong heard about the Ultimate Runner competition in Jackson, Michigan, of course, he went. This diabolical contest has you run a 10K race in the morning, 400 meters, 100 meters, and a mile around midday, and for the afternoon, a marathon. Kardong is funny. He recalls passing a dead raccoon in the last couple of miles of the marathon, "I thought the roadkill looked better than I felt. "He placed fifth overall…".
Olympian and famous running author Jeff Galloway once competed in the Ultimate Runner event and said, "I haven't had this much fun since Vietnam."
John Craig was a thirteen-time member of Canada's national track and field team, winning the national title six times and holding the Canadian record during his competitive years. He was selected for Canada's Olympic 1500-meter team in 1980, when Canada and other countries boycotted the games in Moscow.
Craig reflected on his time at the original Ultimate Runner event, calling it a good experience. However, he made it clear that he'd never choose to participate again, citing the event's demanding nature as a significant drawback. Considering Craig’s remarkable athletic background, his comments resonate deeply—after all, if someone with his skill level found it challenging, it must have been a true test of endurance. His honesty paints a vivid picture of the event's intensity.
Kardong's humor aptly captures the event. The race was brutally difficult, leaving nothing in the tank after finishing. Galloway conveys the same sentiment differently.
The race was a battle of wills from the very first step. National record holders in ultra-marathon events, road racing champions, elite marathon runners, and Olympic athletes at 1500 and 5000 meters competed for The Ultimate Runner's title at its peak popularity. I was not on anyone's radar to win this event.
You could almost hear a pin drop at the beginning of the competition, the day I ran the race. Every elite runner in the field was extraordinarily focused and wanted to win the race.
By the end of the competition, I was crowned "The Ultimate Runner," setting the event's record. I finished ahead of several national and world-class runners I had never beaten. I was blessed to end up number one on the all-time Ultimate Runner point total list, ahead of 1500-meter and 5000-meter Olympians, marathon champions, and ultra-marathon national record holders.
Winning the Ultimate Runner Competition took every ounce of mental, physical, and spiritual strength that I could find deep down inside that day. That afternoon, the meet officials had to lift me onto the stage at the awards ceremony to receive my first-place award because my legs were like jelly.
Due to space constraints, I cannot share the full range of transformative experiences and lessons I encountered that day. However, I can highlight a few key moments.
In my growth journey, I prayed and focused more deeply than ever before. It was a time when I learned to endure physical pain with a newfound strength.
The pivotal moment came when I truly grasped the essence of Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” This powerful verse transformed my perspective, becoming my anchor after the Ultimate Runner event. Today, it still resonates deeply within me, motivating me to push past challenges and embrace the strength that comes from faith. It's incredible how one verse can weave itself into the fabric of our lives, guiding us forward with courage and determination.
After participating in the original Ultimate Runner competition, my understanding of fatigue and endurance was completely redefined. Gone was my acceptance of the conventional limits imposed by the physiology of my day. I discovered that we can push beyond what we initially think is possible in terms of endurance and mental fortitude. This revelation opened my eyes to the extraordinary potential within us all.
Reflecting on my experience in the original Ultimate Runner Competition, I can confidently say it was a monumental challenge that pushed the boundaries of both mind and body. As a young man, I felt incredibly fortunate to embrace this opportunity to explore the limits of human endurance.
This event was more than just a race; it was a profound lesson in resilience and determination. I discovered that we can do so much more than we often think.
It’s amazing how far we can go when we push past our perceived limits!
Other Life Reflections
A New Mindset
The Original Ultimate Runner Competition was truly a life-changing experience for me. It felt like a turning point, where my faith and determination collided in the most uplifting way. Philippians 4:13 became my life verse: "I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me."
Crossing the finish line ahead of world-class runners was not just a victory in the race but a profound shift in my mindset. It filled me with deep belief, reinforcing my belief that God walks with us in every challenge. Each event taught me perseverance pays off and many things are possible through faith and hard work.
This journey deepened my sense of purpose and inspired me to pursue my dreams, no matter how daunting they may seem.
Trust in the Journey
Life can be unpredictable, and we may not always get the results we hope for. However, there’s a comforting truth: God stands by us through every challenge. Just think about it—when the storms of life rage, leaning on Him can truly be our safest harbor. Rather than facing our struggles alone, we can find strength in faith and resilience. Embracing this support can illuminate our paths and guide us through even the most challenging times. Isn't knowing we are never alone in our battles reassuring?
Trusting in Him during the storm is not just a choice; it's the best way to weather life's uncertainties!
Crossing the finish line of the Original Ultimate Runner race was a turning point for me. In that exhilarating moment, I felt a surge of confidence; it was the first time I truly believed I could compete with the best in the world.
That newfound belief didn’t just stop at the finish line—it spilled over into every aspect of my life. It transformed how I approached career challenges and shaped the exciting chapters that followed. With each step on that track, I discovered not just the strength of my legs, but the strength of my spirit, by the grace of God.
During my preparation for the Ultimate Runner Competition, I decided to take a risk by trusting my instincts instead of relying on the conventional, one-size-fits-all training programs prevalent at the time. I tailored my training plan to align with my mental and physical strengths and weaknesses.
Seeing Customization in a new way
Participating in this race powerfully transformed my understanding of leadership and coaching. The realization that personal customization trumps a one-size-fits-all strategy hit me hard. I wouldn't have won if I hadn't completely overhauled my training approach for the Ultimate Runner. This experience shaped my perspective on what it truly means to help others reach their God-given potential. Each person needs their personalized plan for success.
Our DNA uniquely shapes us for a purpose. Success in life hinges on recognizing and celebrating these differences. It’s not just about one-size-fits-all training methods—mentally and physically, we all thrive through tailored approaches that resonate with our unique traits.
Reflecting on my Ultimate Runner days, I’ve embraced a powerful mission: to learn from each individual I encounter. It’s fascinating how no two people are alike; uniqueness is the key to unlocking potential. In running and life, I’ve discovered that true champions are forged through customized training tailored to each person's needs.
When I aligned my training with my unique DNA—as if I were decoding my personal blueprint—everything changed. My performance soared to heights I had never imagined possible! It’s a reminder that we can achieve our God-given potential by embracing our individuality and fine-tuning our approach.
To help others reach their God-given potential, it is essential to understand whether they are following a one-size-fits-all plan or one that fits their unique mental and physical characteristics.
When we truly care for others and genuinely wish them well, we can uplift those who serve by crafting unique plans for their success. This, to me, is love and care in action—it's about going that extra mile to ensure others survive and truly thrive. To learn more about customization, read The Principle Of Customized Training.
Questions for Prayer and Reflection
1. What common misconceptions keep the individuals you support from fully embracing their running journey and life experiences?
2. In what innovative ways can you empower others to break free from their self-imposed barriers and reach new heights?
3. How can you tailor mental and physical training approaches to unlock the unique potential within each person you lead?
4. What are your go-to resources—books, online platforms, or coaching tools—that can inspire and help others achieve their God-given potential?
Running the 800-meters for the University of Montana back in the day.
My last race before retiring from competition was a prize money race, which was still a novelty in my era. I won my final road race, an 8k, that day.
One side note in my running era:
When I received a substantial amount of money earlier for winning the Original Ultimate Runner Competition, it felt like Christmas! Winning anything other than a trophy in my era was new and exciting, and it was the result of the efforts of many running pioneers to make our sport more professional. Individuals like Frank Shorter, Steve Prefontaine and Jim Ryun paved the way to earn money in our sport.
So did the runners at the Cascade Run Off in Portland in the early 1980's who accepted money in road racing for the first time. They challenged the status quo and laid the foundation for the prize money and professional contracts in running that we see today.
You can explore the original ultimate runner story, complete with historical photographs of competitors of that era. Check it out here: The Original Ultimate Runner Competition