We runners run for a plethora of reasons. For health, stress relief, for competition, and often times, simply because we can. Among the many great reasons to run is running in honor of those who cannot. There are many fantastic organizations that dedicate the sport solely to those who can not lace up their shoes. I have the honor of running side by side with one who’s got more than the finish line in his sights.
Nick Williams is surprising. He’s an Air Force pilot, a phenomenal runner, a dancer, and a talented chef. It’s hard to learn these things about him because he’s such a kind and caring individual, an excellent friend, and devoted son- qualities that are the loudest parts of his personality. I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Nick as we’ve trained on the streets of Wichita, Kansas together. In a short time, I’ve made more than a great running buddy. I’ve made a life-long friend.
Nick and I even ran the 2024 Boston Marathon side-by-side. We laughed, pushed, and fought our way to the famous finish line on Boylston Street together. We’re like “war buddies” now. We’ve been to “hell and back” together, the hell we call the marathon.
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