A former runner.
Back from retirement.

At 36, chasing the U.S. Olympic Trials standard in the marathon.

MY STORY
JOURNAL

Hello, Iโ€™m Derek.
Iโ€™m a runnerโ€”again.

After a 13-year break from competitive running, I returned to the sport almost by accident. What started as a challenge to run a sub-3 marathon quickly became something more serious.

Today, Iโ€™m training with intention, balancing a full-time career while chasing a long-term goal most would consider unrealistic: qualifying for the 2028 U.S. Olympic Trials in the marathon.

MY STORY

2:22:27

Marathon

1:10:16

Half Marathon

24:33

8K (Collegiate)

There are no shortcuts.
Only one foot after the other.

The Journal

Stories and reflections on the work, the races, and the long pursuit behind chasing a marathon standard.

SEE MORE

Next marathon on
the calendar

California International Marathon

December 6, 2026 ยท Sacramento, California

EVENT DETAILS

Follow my training
on Strava

Strava / Instagram