**Ohio doctor Kathryn Clark set to complete 50 marathons in 50 states in 21 years**
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Kathryn Clark, a 47-year-old physician from Ohio, is on the verge of achieving an extraordinary goal: running a marathon in all 50 US states. The family medicine specialist at the Cleveland Clinic has been dedicated to this challenge for the past 21 years and is set to complete her milestone at the Jackson Hole Marathon in Wyoming on September 26.
Reflecting on her journey, Clark expressed her gratitude for both the opportunity to pursue her passion and the resilience of her body over the years. “I feel so many emotions, but mainly I am grateful that I have had the chance to do it and my body has complied,” she told PEOPLE. “I’m also relieved it’s almost over!”
Running has played a pivotal role in Clark’s life, providing her with a way to balance her responsibilities as a mother of four sons, while also serving as a form of personal therapy. “It has given me time to quietly meditate, think and clarify new goals, commune with nature, socialise with friends, see our beautiful country, and give back to my community through fundraising,” she noted.
In addition to completing her 50 marathons, Clark is using her final race to raise £10,000 for blood cancer research through the nonprofit organisation Blood Cancer United. This charitable initiative adds an extra layer of significance to her final achievement, as she seeks to make a difference while closing a remarkable chapter in her life.
Throughout her marathon journey, Clark has accumulated a wealth of fond memories. Among her favourite events were races in Arizona, Alaska, and Utah. “Utah was the best because it was the most challenging. Colorado was the best because it was the first marathon back after five years off due to knee surgery,” she recounted.
Each marathon held special meaning for Clark. Hawaii was memorable as it coincided with her 10th wedding anniversary, while her experience in Arizona marked her inaugural fundraising effort with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Others, like the marathon in South Dakota, stood out for their picturesque beginnings at the Crazy Horse Monument at sunrise.
Clark’s experiences have not been without their challenges. She recalled encountering a moose in Alaska that refused to share the roadway, as well as a situation in Missouri where she had to tend to an unconscious fellow participant until emergency services arrived. Yet, amidst the hurdles, the joy of running and connecting with others has always prevailed.
The remarkable perseverance that Clark has demonstrated over the decades began in her mid-20s when running became an accessible form of exercise. “Running emerged as a practical and inexpensive way to exercise when you have little kids,” she shared. “You can run any time, for as long or as short as you want. All you need are some running shoes.”
Her journey with running evolved even further after experiencing secondary infertility and multiple miscarriages, which made the sport a vital outlet for her emotions. “Running shifted from simply fitness into a more powerful, cathartic force,” she explained, indicating that it significantly contributed to her personal healing process.
A pivotal moment came when a friend suggested she participate in a half marathon. This experience sparked her interest in longer distances, eventually leading to her accomplishing 49 more marathons.
While looking ahead, Clark is unsure what her next adventure will be after crossing the finish line for her 50th marathon. “I don’t know! I am open to suggestions,” she said, entertaining the possibility of exploring US national parks or training for an Ironman competition. Whatever her future holds, it is clear that running and adventure will continue to play integral roles in her life.
Clark’s journey not only showcases her commitment to health and fitness but also reflects her ability to inspire others with her story of resilience and determination. As she prepares to complete this monumental challenge, she shares a powerful message of gratitude and the importance of following one’s passions.